Commercial Visa

A government-issued document that allows noncitizens to enter a foreign country temporarily for business purposes. A country may issue commercial visas for different types of business visits. The United States, for example, issues B-1 visas to professional athletes, investors, business-event attendees, lecturers and speakers, researchers, salespeople, commercial and industrial service engineers, and training-program participants. Individuals wishing to visit a country on a commercial visa must meet certain requirements related to the purpose of their visit, the earning of income and their length of stay.

In addition to visa requirements, travelers should be aware of passport, immunization and other requirements to enter the country they intend to visit. In getting approved for a commercial visa, it may also be necessary or helpful to obtain a letter from the foreign company inviting the individual abroad. Individuals who earn income in a foreign country while traveling on a commercial visa should be aware that they may generate a tax liability to the government of the country they are visiting.