USA Business Visa (B-1) — Document Checklist for Thai Applicants

Last Updated on October 24, 2025 by 28 Immigration

A) Core Application Requirements (Mandatory for Everyone)

  1. DS-160 Form (Online Application)
    • Complete at ceac.state.gov.
    • Upload a digital photo (must meet U.S. specifications).
    • Print the DS-160 confirmation page with barcode.
  2. Visa Appointment Registration (USTravelDocs)
    • Create a profile at ustraveldocs.com/th.
    • Pay the non-refundable MRV visa fee (~USD 185, in Thai Baht).
    • Schedule appointment at the U.S. Embassy Bangkok or U.S. Consulate Chiang Mai.
    • Print the appointment confirmation page.
  3. Passport (Original + Copies)
    • Valid for at least 6 months beyond intended stay in the U.S.
    • Must contain at least two blank visa pages.
    • Bring any previous passports showing travel history.
  4. Photograph
    • Size 2×2 inches (51×51 mm), color, white background, no glasses.
    • Upload electronically and bring 1 printed photo.
  5. Visa Fee Receipt
    • Proof of MRV payment from bank or online system.

B) Supporting Documents (Highly Recommended)

1. Business Purpose of Travel

  • Invitation letter from U.S. company/organization (must include purpose of visit, dates, and sponsor details).
  • Conference or trade fair registration confirmation (if attending).
  • Event agenda, brochures, or meeting schedule.
  • Cover letter (from applicant or Thai employer) explaining:
    • Purpose of the trip (meetings, negotiations, attending events).
    • Duration of stay.
    • Source of funding for the trip.
    • Commitment to return to Thailand.

2. Proof of Employment or Business in Thailand

  • For employees:
    • Letter from Thai employer confirming employment, position, salary, and approval of business trip leave.
    • Recent payslips (last 3–6 months).
  • For business owners:
    • Company registration certificate (DBD), business license.
    • Tax filings and financial statements.
    • Letter explaining role in the company and reason for U.S. business trip.
  • For government employees / professionals:
    • Official assignment letters.

3. Financial Capability

  • Bank statements (3–6 months).
  • Company bank statements (if the company is sponsoring).
  • Evidence of financial ties in Thailand (savings, fixed deposits, investments).
  • Proof of company sponsorship (if expenses are covered by Thai employer).

4. Ties to Thailand (To Show Intention to Return)

  • Employment letter confirming permanent position.
  • Business registration documents (if self-employed).
  • Marriage certificate or birth certificates of children.
  • House registration (Tabien Baan).
  • Property deeds, vehicle registrations, or investment accounts.

5. Travel History

  • Copies of previous U.S. visas (if applicable).
  • Copies of Schengen, UK, Japan, Korea, or other visas to demonstrate travel compliance.
  • Old passports with entry/exit stamps.

C) Special Cases

  • If sponsored by U.S. company: Provide letter confirming expenses (flights, hotels, daily allowances).
  • If sponsored by Thai employer: Employer letter + financial proof from the company.
  • If attending a U.S. trade fair/exhibition: Provide exhibitor or participant certificate and invitation.
  • If self-funded: Strong bank proof and cover letter explaining self-funding.

D) Embassy Interview Preparation

  • All documents above should be organized in a clear folder.
  • Be ready to answer (in English or Thai with interpreter) questions such as:
    • What is the purpose of your business trip?
    • Which company/organization invited you?
    • How long will you stay?
    • Who is paying for your trip?
    • What is your position in your company?
    • Do you intend to return to Thailand after your trip?
  • Keep answers short, professional, and consistent with documents.

E) Quick Pre-Interview Checklist

✅ DS-160 confirmation page with barcode.
✅ Appointment confirmation page.
✅ Valid passport (6+ months after stay).
✅ 2×2 inch photo (meets U.S. requirements).
✅ MRV fee receipt.
✅ Invitation letter from U.S. company/event.
✅ Cover letter from applicant or Thai employer.
✅ Employment documents (letter, payslips, contract).
✅ Financial proof (bank statements, investments).
✅ Ties to Thailand (family, business, property).
✅ Previous visa/travel history copies.
✅ Conference/trade fair registration (if applicable).