Can You Hold Multiple U.S. Visas at the Same Time? Here’s What You Need to Know

For foreign nationals navigating the U.S. immigration system, understanding visa regulations is essential. One question that often arises is whether it is possible to hold multiple valid U.S. visas at the same time. The answer depends on the types of visas and the intended purpose of each.

The U.S. allows individuals to hold two concurrently valid visas, provided they are of different types. For example:

• A foreign national may hold a B-1/B-2 visa for tourism or business purposes and an E-2 investor visa for managing a business in the U.S.
• In this scenario, both visas remain valid, and the individual can choose which visa to use based on the purpose of their trip.

However, holding two visas of the same type simultaneously is not permitted. For instance, if you previously held an H-1B visa and applied for a new one after changing employers, the consular officer would cancel the older H-1B visa before issuing a new one.

While having multiple visas is allowed, you can only use one visa to enter the U.S. during any given trip. Upon entry, your visa type determines your status, which governs your lawful activities in the country.

For example:

• If you hold both a B-1/B-2 tourist visa and an E-2 work visa, you must use the E-2 visa if your visit involves employment at the E-2 company. Entering on the wrong visa could result in a violation of your status.
• Once admitted, your status remains tied to the visa you used for entry, and you must adhere to the conditions associated with that status.

Certain nationalities have unique privileges. For example, Canadian nationals, with some exceptions, are visa exempt. Also, they may apply for TN or L-1 visas at the border.

1. Single Entry, Single Status: You can only use one visa per entry, and your status will align with that visa.
2. Appropriate Visa Use: Always use the visa that matches the purpose of your trip to avoid complications.
3. Multiple Employment Approvals: Within a single visa category, you may work for multiple employers if each is approved by USCIS (e.g., H-1B or TN categories).

At Scott Legal, P.C., we specialize in guiding individuals through the complexities of U.S. immigration law. Whether you need advice about holding multiple visas, maintaining your status, or applying for a new visa, our team is here to help.

Schedule a consultation with us today to ensure your immigration journey is smooth and compliant. You can also access our free resources, including immigration guides and webinars, to learn more about your options.