Which U.S Visa is Right for Me? 🇺🇸🇬🇧

[mbilli]

Hi all,

UK citizen here travelling to America at some point. I'll be there for less than 90 days staying with various hosts from workaway. I won't be getting paid for any of them. However, there is one where I will receive up to $60 stipends (expenses), but not a wage so to speak. Can I get away with an ESTA or am I looking at a B1/2 visa?

[Karen763Purvis]

Hello!
While an ESTA works for tourism and standard business meetings, your plan to stay with "workaway" hosts and receive a stipend, even for expenses, complicates things. The key issue is that any form of work or service in exchange for compensation, even non-monetary, is generally not permitted under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The U.S. government views these activities as a form of employment. To be fully compliant with U.S. immigration laws and avoid potential issues at the border, Login Link a B-1 visa is the correct option. This visa is specifically for temporary business visitors and accommodates activities like participating in volunteer or short-term, unpaid work programs, making it the safest and most appropriate choice for your trip.

[rkk09]

Hi,
Stipend or any of the cash receiving under VWP will not be allowed. Its better if you apply B1/B2. Thanks