Requirements to request the Visa B1/B2/H1B1 for the United States

Amid uncertainty surrounding the Visa Waiver program, CNN Chile interviewed our CEO Pablo Navarrete to explore alternative Visa options and their specific requirements.

Current Visa Waiver scenario

The possible suspension of the Visa Waiver program for Chile has generated concern among those planning to travel to the United States. Facing this uncertainty, other alternatives emerge: the B1/B2 visa, oriented towards business and tourism travel, and the H-1B1 visa, designed for Chilean professionals seeking to work legally in the North American country. (cnnchile.com)

B1/B2 visa requirements for Chileans

According to CNN Chile, the main requirements to apply are:

• Valid passport.
• Complete DS-160 form.
• Payment of the corresponding fee.
• Attend the consular interview at the U.S. Embassy.

This visa allows for business travel, tourism, or medical treatments, but does not grant work authorization.

H-1B1 visa requirements for Chileans

The H-1B1 visa, exclusive to Chile and Singapore, allows professionals to work in the U.S. in specialized occupations. According to the report, the requirements are:

• Have a formal job offer in the United States.
• Present a university degree or accredited work experience.
• Complete the DS-160 form and attend the consular interview.
• The U.S. company must act as the worker's sponsor.

Unlike the B1/B2 visa, the H-1B1 does provide legal employment status.

Expert statements and reliable alternatives

CNN Chile highlights the statements of Pablo Navarrete, CEO of Visability, who explained that the increase in uncertainty about the Visa Waiver has grown interest in visas like the H-1B1. He also noted that having specialized advice is key to streamlining processes and avoiding errors in the application. (cnnchile.com)

A clear path beyond Visa Waiver

Although the Visa Waiver is still under evaluation, Chileans have solid alternatives to travel and work in the U.S. The B1/B2 visa allows maintaining commercial and tourism ties, while the H-1B1 visa opens concrete professional opportunities. With the support of platforms like Visability, this process becomes simpler, safer, and more transparent.