B-1: Visitors for Business
This class includes foreign nationals who intend to conduct business for a foreign employer. A B-1 visitor may not displace a U.S. worker, or receive compensation from a U.S. source. The initial maximum period of admission is one year, with renewals granted as necessary to complete the purposes of the trip.
B-2: Visitors for Pleasure
These are tourists and relatives visiting family members in the United States. B-2 nonimmigrants are not permitted to work in the United States. Persons coming primarily for the purpose of studying are not properly classifiable as B-2 nonimmigrants. The initial period of admission is usually six months, with a maximum total stay of one year.
Please see the related article, "B-1 Visitor for Business Visas", for more information on the B-1 visa.