What is the designation of the visa that admits visitors to the U.S.?

Question

I was told that I can "invite" (I think the correct term is "sponsor") someone to come to the U.S. on a "visitor's visa," and that that sponsorship is the quickest way someone can get a visa. Which visa should the person apply for? I want to read up on it.

Answer 1

B2 Visa
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Nonimmigrants who wish to visit the US for pleasure must obtain a B2 visa to enter the United States. Generally these visas are valid for five to ten years. However, the visa holder is only allowed to remain in the US while his or her I-94 card is valid. B2 holders should return to their home country or apply for a visa extension before their I-94 card expires. Failure to extend the visa or return home can result in the current visa being revoked and future visa applications being denied.

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The duration of authorized stay for a B-2 holder are decided by the immigration officer at the time of the B-2 holder's entry into the U.S. However, B-2 holders are routinely granted an initial period of entry of six months. Only in rare circumstances, however, can a visitor be granted an initial period of entry exceeding six months. B-2 holders are not permitted to work for a U.S. employer unless authorized by the USCIS to do so.
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A B-2 holder may apply to extend his/her status for six more months if he/she wishes to stay longer for the visit. While extensions of stay may be obtained, any extensions granted may not exceed six months at a time. Moreover, at least in theory, a person in B-2 status may apply for an immigrant visa or status.

Answer 2

While your "sponsorship" might be slightly helpful, it will not take the place of the applicant's having strong ties to his or her home country. Unless the interviewing consular officer is convinced that your friend must and will go home again after a short visit to the US, the consul is required by law to refuse the visa application.

Here is more information on nonimmigrant visas:
http://www.travel.state.gov/visa/temp/temp_1305.html

Answer 3

B2