Can You Enter the USA Two Weeks Before Your B1/B2 Visa Expires?

Yes, you can enter the United States up to the expiration date of your B1/B2 visa, even if it's just two weeks before it expires. However, it's important to understand that the visa expiration date signifies the last date you can use the visa to enter the U.S., not the duration of your stay. The length of your stay is ultimately determined by the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry.

Understanding Your B1/B2 Visa

The B1/B2 visa is a non-immigrant visa that enables you to visit the United States for business (B1) or tourism (B2) purposes. The visa expiration date, in this context, does not dictate the length of your stay. Once you enter the U.S., the specific duration you're allowed to stay is detailed on your Form I-94, which will be provided to you upon entry. This document sets the date when your authorized stay ends, and you should leave the country before that date.

What to Expect at the Port of Entry

When you present yourself for entry, if the CBP officer deems your reasons for visiting legitimate, they will likely stamp your passport with the maximum stay period, usually up to six months. However, if the officer believes your purpose for visiting is not valid or if you appear to be seeking a longer stay, they may grant you a different duration than six months. You should ensure you have a return ticket if you want to demonstrate your intention to leave before your authorized stay expires.

Comparison with Other Visas

It's worth noting that the B1/B2 visa is not similar to the Schengen visa, where the last date of visa validity is the date by which you have to leave the country. For the B1/B2 visa, you can enter up to the last day of validity, but your stay will be controlled by the CBP at the port of entry. Similarly, the Canadian visa is also an entry visa, meaning you can enter up to the last valid day but your stay is controlled by immigration inside Canada.

Documentation and Compliance

To avoid any issues, it's crucial to comply with the terms of your stay and present a valid and unexpired B1/B2 visa when you arrive at the U.S. Additionally, having a return ticket can greatly help in demonstrating your intention to depart after the authorized period. If your visa expires shortly before you plan to travel, it's a good idea to verify that your passport is also valid for at least 6 months, as an expired passport could pose another problem at the port of entry. Always ensure that you consult the official U.S. Department of State or CBP guidelines for the most up-to-date and accurate information.