US B1/B2 VISA Queries

[Lord Nemesis]

I have a US B1/B2 Dual VISA issued in Jul 2006 and slated to expire in Jul 2016. The passport on which it was stamped has since expired and I have new passport renewed. I have to travel to US in May to visit my sister for a week (This would be personal visit and falls under B2).

Note that I have also not traveled to USA so far. I got the VISA originally to attend a conference back in 2006 but due to some conditions, the trip had to be cancelled after I got the VISA and I had no occasion to travel since then.

1. Would there be any problem if I don't renew my visa before may? i.e. Can I travel in May considering that my VISA is valid till July. Are there any rules that prevent travel a certain period before visa expires?

2. How soon before the VISA expires can I apply for VISA (Same class B1/B2 or B2 only) again? Should I do it now to be on safe side or is there a period defined?

3. Can I apply for a B1/B2 VISA renewal without help from company or do I need to apply for B2 only since my immediate need is a personal visit?

 

[whatsinaname]

1) The visa needs be valid on the day of entry. After that, your length of legal stay is determined by what the immigration officer stamps in your passport. (Which will depend on the officer, your travel plans and reason for visiting).

2) You can apply at any time.

3) For B1, you will need a supporting letter indicating a business purpose. Might as well just apply for B2.