Parents Visitor Visa USA - Documents, Checklist, letters Templates

US Visitor Visa(B2) for Parents – Process, Sample Documents

One of the most frequently asked questions among friends, either during graduation time, after they start working in the US, or if they are expecting a baby, is “What is the process to apply for a visitor or tourist visa(B2 visa) to parents to come to the USA? What documents do I need? How do I start ?”

The below article covers the step-by-step process to apply for a B2 visitor visa for parents or family members, including sample documents and templates.

Basic Requirements: Passports,   Funds for US Trip, Documents

The two most important things you need to plan before applying for a visa are passports for your parents and the funds required for their travel to the US.

Getting Parents’ Passports

  • The first step before you plan the B2 Visa is to apply for a passport for your parents if they do not have one. 
  • Depending on the country, the time to get a passport can vary. Consider the time to get the passport when you plan the overall time to get a B2 Visitor visa for them.
  • Check out the passport application website for details. You may read our article on applying for How to do passport renewal in India to get an idea of the process.

Bank Savings for Sponsorship

  • If you are paying for your parents’ trip, you need to have enough funds secured for the same.
  • There is no official guidance on how much money you need to have in the bank account from the US Department of State. They say the applicants must have enough funds to pay for the trip.
  • You can do a ballpark estimate of the expenses that your parents might incur based on flight tickets, local travel, etc., and come up with an amount you think makes sense.
  • As a rule of thumb, a good amount totaling up to $10,000 Dollars or more to cover their expenses would be ideal to have in the bank account.
  • It is advised to start saving for the same three months before and accumulate steadily rather than just borrowing money and putting it in the bank. Again, there is no hard-and-fast rule, just some general guidance.

Also, it is important to secure all the relevant documents about your status in the US as they would be important for the process. Let’s look at them below.

Employment Letter from your Company or Graduation Letter

When you invite your parents or family, one of the things that a US Consular officer would look at is your current US Visa status and supporting documentation for the same. You may need to get a different set of documentation based on your status as an employee working in the US or a student studying in the US.

Below are the two main options based on your situation:

Working in the US on a Visa (H1B, L1, OPT , Green Card) – Employment Letter

If you are working on a work visa, you need to get an employment letter from your current company verifying that you are working in the US on H1B, L1, or other visa, including Green Card, OPT or STEM OPT. This is to make sure you are in good standing in the US and are getting paid to support the travel of your parents.

Depending on the company, your company may ask for details of your parents or their passport copies and directly address the employment verification letter to the consulate. There is no rule or format given by the US Consulate. You are free to use what your company gives. Check the sample templates section at the end of the article, if you want a sample. All they care is if you are employed and in good standing.

The employment verification Letter should have information like when you joined them, what role you are working in, and how much salary you make. Some employers are quick, and some are slow in doing this. Plan well and make sure you have it with you.

International Student on F1 Visa – Graduation Invitation

If you are an F1 international Student inviting your parents for Graduation, you need to send your current status details like your F1 Visa copy, I-94 copy , I-20, and Graduation invitation letter to your parents. This would act like an invite as well as supporting documentation for them.

Step-by-Step Process for Parents’ US Visitor Visa (B2)

Below are the various steps that you can follow to apply for a visitor visa for parents. Some of these can be done in parallel, but below is a general step-by-step guide.

Step 1: Complete DS-160, Book US Visa Appointment

Before booking your parents’ US Visa stamping appointment, you must fill in Form DS-160, which is nothing but the online Nonimmigrant US Visa application form. Make sure you have scan copies of their passports before you start the process to avoid issues. Sometimes, your employer may also ask for the same for documentation.

Complete Form DS-160 Online for Parents   

Unless your parents are well educated and have all the facilities, such as a computer with internet access, etc., they may not be able to do DS-160 on their own. It would be better if you fill it out for them and then declare the same at the end. It saves a lot of pain for your parents to fill it out without any mistakes.

Important Info to know before you fill out Form DS-160 Form for Parents

  • Separate DS-160 Forms: You must create separate DS-160 application profiles for every visitor visa applicant. If you invite both your mother and father, you must create two DS-160 Profiles online separately for your parents.
  • Creating Family Member DS-160 from the Thank you page : When you are filling out the first DS-160 form for the first family member, at the end, when you select ‘Email Confirmation’ on the confirmation page, you will go to “Thank you ” page and on that page you will have the option to create a family or group application, you can choose this option so that some of the information from your first application will be copied over and imported. Of course, you can change those details as needed.
  • Required info to Fill DS-160 form: You will need a lot of information like education details, work history, identification info, etc. We have compiled the entire list of required items for DS-160 and tips to fill the same. Read the article: Documents Needed to Fill out DS-160 Form, to get an idea.
  • Filling up the DS-160, Declaration: If you are filling out forms on behalf of your parents, at the end of the completion of DS-160 form, there is a section that reads ‘Sign and Submit page’, you should fill out your details as a third party and then inform your parents regarding the endorsement of the application by them and help them click on sign and submit button. You may check more info and discussion on sign and submit  option.

Where to Fill out DS-160 online at the Official State.gov website

You should go to the Official US Govt State.gov website for DS-160 form Creation. Here is the link: US Govt ceac.state.gov Non-Immigrant Visa Application Website

  • If you have any questions, you can visit any of the below links to fill the DS-160 form.  
  • US Travel Docs India Official Website:   Info on DS-160 form
  • US State Govt Website:  FAQs on DS-160 form

Once you complete the DS-160 form, next step is to pay the fee and book visa interview appointment.

Booking US Visa Interview Appointment , Native Language

You need to book a visa appointment at a US embassy/ consulate to get B2 Visa stamping to travel to the US. It involves paying fees, selecting a location, and interview language. Let’s look in detail.

  • US Consulate Location for Interview: Depending on your home country, there may be one or more locations in your country. You need to choose the US Consulate that is close to where your parents live. For instance, in India, each consulate has a list of states that they serve. Depending on your state, you need to select the respective Consulate. You can read US Consulates India – What states they serve, contact info .
  • India Consulates – No Option to Choose Language in System: Starting from 2023 with the new system in place, in India, you do not have the option to choose the interview language such as your mother tongue like  Telugu, Tamil, Gujarati, etc. You will only get the option of English. If you feel your parents are not fluent in English, then you can ask them to request a local translator at the US Consulate/ Embassy on the day of the interview. For India, depending on the consulate, some languages may not be available. So, it is important to attend the interview at a location that is relevant for your state. You can check US Consulates Contact Info, Served States for more info. You can email the consulate/ embassy beforehand to be sure as well.
  • You need to create an account and follow the process in there. You will be asked to pay the fee online for booking an appointment.
  • If you cannot pay online, you may need to go to the bank, pay it there, and get a code to use for booking an appointment.
  • You do not need two accounts, you can add your parents as family in the same account and book visa interview appointment.
  • If you are booking an appointment in India, you can read How to Create Account on USVisaScheduling.com

You can also read the complete guide apply for a US Visa Appointment for step-by-step process.

Step 2: Prepare for US Visitor Visa(B2) Interview, Documents

You will need to prepare and carry all relevant documents for the US Visitor visa interview for your parents. You will need to send them invite letters, sponsorship letters and other info. Let’s look at each of them.

Funds Proof – Bank Account Balance Lette r, Sample

If you are sponsoring your parents or in-laws trip, you need to send the relevant proof to show that there are enough funds in your bank. While you can print out the Bank statements online, it is recommend that you go to your Bank and get a Bank verification or Bank Balance Statement Letter signed and stamped by the Bank officer.

Go to the primary bank, where you have your longest standing account and the bank which has your savings and ask them to give you a Bank Verification letter for Visa. Depending on the bank, the process can vary.

For instance, at Chase Bank they do it instantly. For Bank of America, or others they make take couple weeks or more. Do this in advance.  All they do is, give a letter saying when the bank account was opened and average running balance since opening.  It is just a simple letter. If possible, get the visiting card of the bank manager( not necessary, more documentation the better). Check out   Sample Bank Verification Letter for Parents Visa

Invitation Letter, Visa Officer Cover Letter, Other Documents

Below are the other set of documents that you will need to have ready for the visa interview, so that your parents or in-laws can show the same.

  • Invitation Letter: You need to send an invitation letter to your parents saying that you are inviting them to visit you and sign it. It supports your parents intent to come to the US and  you are inviting them to visit. You can get a sample template copy in the below section.
  • Visa officer Cover letter: It is recommended to send a cover letter with all the documentation addressing the visa officer. It just lets you keep in track of what you are sending and if visa officer needs to check, it is easier for him and more clear for our parents. See the templates section below.
  • Copies of W2 Form, Pay stubs, etc : You will need copies of W2 Forms for all the years, last three pay stubs or salary statements, Last three bank statements, Copy of your passport, I-94, H1B visa approval ( I797). This is extra piece of documentation to be given to your parents to avoid any issues. This is like an optional, I strongly suggest that you carry these documents.
  • F1 Student Status Documents: If you are a student on F1 visa and not working, you may not have pay stubs, so do not worry about it. Send whatever you have regarding your current status like I20, etc.
  • (Optional ) Affidavit of Support I-134 Form: This is an optional form, which is typically filed with family-based green card applications by sponsors. This is to establish that the applicant will not become public charges while in the United States. If you submit this form, you are legally signing that you take all the liability and they will not become a public charge. You may fill, sign and send the affidavit of support to your parents.  It has some basic info. Nothing fancy and tricky out there. All you are telling in this document is that you are going to support their entire trip.  You can Download the I-134 Form, Affidavit of Support from USCIS website
  • Sending Documents to Home Country: Ideally, you want to print out everything and sign all the documents where you filled forms I-134 (optional), invitation letter and cover letter. Make copies of all the documents as listed above. Send originals of Employment letter and Bank letter. You can use DHL or FedEx. It may cost you up to $60 USD.

Below is the checklist of B2 visitor visa stamping documents for parents.

Parents US Visitor Visa(B2) Documents Checklist

Below are the documents that Parents need to carry from their side

  • DS-160 Form Submission Confirmation letter
  • US Visa Appointment Confirmation Letter

Below are the documents parents need to carry related to their sponsor(son or daughter) in the US or if they would be staying with them.

  • Copy of work visa approval notice from USCIS ( H1B/ L1 Approval Notice Form I-797 ).
  • Copy of Passport, US Visa stamped on passport.
  • Copy of I-94.  (Check How to get I-94 Online )
  • Current Employment verification letter
  • Copy of Bank statements from the last six months.
  • Bank Account verification/ balance letter.
  • Copies of last three salary statements/ pay slips.
  • Copies of previous years Tax Returns –W2 forms ( if applicable).
  • DS forms (if you have filled it and signed the same)
  • Copy of Green Card ( if you are not working on visa )
  • Form I-134 ( Optional )

US Visitor Visa(B2) Documents Checklist for in-laws

If you are sponsoring for your in-laws like mother-in-law or father-in-law, in addition to above checklist of documents, you need to include spouse’s details and documents as well along with the package.

  • Your Spouse’s Passport
  • Spouse’s approval notice I797
  • Spouse’s US Visa Copy
  • Any other supporting documents like marriage certificate to prove the relationship.
  • Spouse Birth Certificate

Thanks to Rajesh for suggesting the above after his bad experience of missing the documents of in-laws.

Additional Supporting documents by Parents for Visa Interview

Fundamentally, your parents have to prove that they have enough ties in their home country, so that they would return after their trip.  Some of the ways that can be done is by good supporting documentation. The below list of documents are intended to prove that they will return to home country:

  • Notarized documents of land/ sites, buildings ( any kind of property).
  • Bank Statements with enough balance
  • Pension / employment benefits letters, if applicable.
  • Fixed deposits, any financial related documents.
  • If there are Tax returns, then carry them as well
  • Any other documents that shows your financially strong and you will come back.

If you do not have all documents or big property back home, it is OK. No big deal. Because, you are the one in the US, who is sponsoring the visitor visa for your parents. So, do not worry. Also, if your parents are older, then they are fine.

You may join our Telegram B2 Visa Community Group to ask questions or share your experiences.

Sample Document Templates for Parents US Visitor Visa

Below are some of the templates that you can use. Make sure you change the content to fit it for your situation.

  • Parents US Visitor Visa Invite Letter Template: You need to send an invitation letter to your parents saying that you are inviting them and also specify, if you plan to pay for their expenses when in US. We have given a sample letter, but I recommend you edit it with your own flavour and make it unique :  Invitation Letter Templates for Visitor (B-2) / Parents Visa
  • Employment letter Sample Letter Template for US Parents Visa : You should also send an employment letter that tells that you are employed in your company with your designation and salary. It can be any standard employment letter. You may use : Employment letter Template for Parents Visa USA
  • Cover Letter for Visa Officer at US Consulate:  It is a good idea to put in a cover letter to the visa officer listing all the documents you are sending. You may use : Cover Letter for Visa officer – Parents visa USA

These are just standard templates that you can use, no hard fast rule that it has to be in this format. We highly encourage you to use them as guideline only and create your own letters with your own flavour, so that it looks unique.

Step 3: Attend Biometrics & US Visitor Visa Interview Appointments

Once you have all the documents ready, the next step is to attend the Biometrics appointment at a US Visa Application Center(VAC) and give biometrics on that required day. After the biometrics are taken, parents must carry all the documents listed in the above checklist and attend the visa interview on the respective date and time.

Having all the documents is essential, but the most important thing is to give your parents confidence and all the details related to you and what you do in the US so that they can answer the questions. You need to coach your parents to do well in the interview.

You can expect to see questions like the below for your parents in the visa interview.:

  • Who lives in the US? Son or Daughter?
  • What does your Son or Daughter do in the US?
  • Did they study in the US?
  • Where did they study?
  • What does your son or daughter do for work?
  • Which city do they live in?
  • Do you plan to settle down there or come back?
  • What is the purpose of your visit?
  • When do you plan to go?
  • When do you plan to return to India?
  • What is your son or daughter’s salary?
  • How long have your son or daughter lived in the US?
  • Do you currently work, or are you retired?
  • Do you get a pension? Have you paid taxes?

You can check out previous US Visitor Visa experiences at below links 

  • Collection of Latest B1/B2 Visitor Visa Stamping Experiences
  • Parents US Visa Stamping Experience -Telugu  
  • English Stamping Experience US Parents Visa .

Step 4: B2 Visa Approval, Passport with Visa

If the B2 visa interview went well, your parents would be informed that their visa was approved and their passports would be collected. If the passports are collected, then they can expect the actual B2 Visitor Visa foil to be glued in their passport and delivered to their given address within a few days.

If your parents chose to pick up a passport, they could collect the same with the visa stamped in it. The approved B1/B2 or B2 Visitor Visa glued in the passport would look in the screenshot below.

Sample B1/ B2 Visitor Visa for USA

If the visa were not approved, the consular officer would inform your parents and give them a piece of paper indicating the reason for Visa denial. One of the common reasons for visa denial for B2 visitor visa is 214(b). If your parents are unlucky, they can again reapply. You can read more on it at State.gov US Visa Denials reasons .

Hopefully, your parents get their US Visa in the interview. One last thing, before they go to the US, is to look at health insurance for their US Travel.

apply for parents visit visa

Health Insurance for Parents:  After you get the US Visa and plan to arrive in the US, having visitors health insurance is important for parents to avoid any unforeseen health conditions, when in the USA. It is always a good idea to get Health Insurance from a US vendor, who can support you. We recommend Buying Parents Insurance at Visitors Coverage – Parents Insurance as they have US support and you can compare all insurance plans.

Common FAQs

Yes, US Consulates in India are doing both in-person interviews as well as dropbox appointments for parents B2 visitor visas. There are no restrictions.

All the appointments that are available on USVisaScheduling.com for 2024, 2025 and beyond are all real appointments. They are not placeholder appointments like in the past.

That’s it folks…not so much complex, all you need to do is get all the list of documents and have things rolling as per plan and schedule.

Do you have any other ideas or documents that are important ?  Do share your experience and thoughts.

Other Articles

1,792 comments.

Hi, Applying B1\B2 Visa Renewal Interview Renewal for parents, seen the below details on the US Visa Scheduling portal effective 1st April so seeking the clarification.

“”””Regardless, of the location of the consular post for which the interview waiver appointment is scheduled, applicants can still submit their documents free of cost at any of the five Visa Application Centers in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai, or New Delhi””””

As currently only New Delhi VAC is having appointments for B2 Visa Renewal – Interview weaver category, Pls. suggest if the applicants can submit the documents at Chennai VAC at the same time for which appointment is booked at New Delhi.

For example if the applicants book B2 Visa Renewal Interview Waiver case appointment for New Delhi VAC at 29th April 10 AM, can at the same time instead of going to New Delhi VAC can the applicants visit Chennai VAC and provide the documents and finger prints ?

Did any one of you gone through this experience recently, Pls. help.

Thanks in Advance.

Mahi, Technically, there is no fingerprints for renewal, it is usually submitting documents. Yes, you can do that at any location. The only catch is, if you were to be picked for interview, then you would need to go to New Delhi.

Hi, I am preparing documents for my parent’s upcoming US B2 visitor visa appointment , i have some doubts if you can guide me then that will be the best .

1. My parents does not have birth certificate but they do have school leaving certificate in which DOB is mentioned & as per my research you can submit that as proof if DOB certificate is not available ? (Am i correct ?) 2. I already fill DS-160 form 1 year ago , earlier the reason was my sister’s baby shower function but due to interview slots unavailability it dragged , so should need to fill DS-160 form again with the new reason or that will be ok ? 3. I want local translator (Gujarati) for my parents , should i have to do any process before interview or can i request for the translator at a time of interview ? Or if no one is available that moment then can i be the translator for my parents ?

Thanks in advance.

Me and my wife have submitted DS160 and got confirmation. Can U explain how to pay visa fee and what step next? Thanx.

Om Dutta, You need to register an account on USVisaScheduling.com and pay fee. Check How to create account at USVisaScheduling.com

Hi, Firstly, thank you so much for this post, it is really helpful! I am working on OPT and I have my grad walk in May this year, I am applying for B2 visa for my parents and younger brother right now. My younger brother is giving his 10th Standard Board exams right now, and the results will be announced in May end. I have below questions – 1. I am putting him as a student, with the school details as his current school, is that alright? 2. Also my brother’s case makes him a candidate for rejection? And will this affect my parent’s visa too? My father works as an employee at a Logistics Company and my mom is a homemaker and we don’t have any property to our name. Thank you for the help!

I have applied B1/B2 visa for my parents i am currently on H4 Visa and we have applied my Parents visa based on my sister F1 visa . so in this case do i need to send my documents and my husband documents along with Sister Documents? if yes what all documents should we send?

Note : I have added my Info in DS160 but my husband info was not given in DS160

Hi i have b1/b2 as visa class on appointment letter instead of b2 for my parents. WIll this be fine if the visa class is correct on DS160?

Shilpa, Well, it is good to keep them consistent. Ideally, all of them should be B2. Try to call the customer service and see, if anything can be done. You can also create a new DS-160.

I may sound stupid but i am not aware how long is the wait time to get b1/b2 visa interview scheduled for delhi in person? I have applied b2 visa for my parents and its the first time visa for them so in person interview is required. Will they be releasing visa slots like they do for h1b or are all visa slots already booked for nexy 1-1.5 yr?

Need some help. My parents have a B2 visiting visa interview next month and I am gathering all the required documents. I felt inviting using the graduation invitation letter is easier than direct invitation. I got my degree in 2016 but I never did the graduation walk, my college has confirmed that I am eligible to do the graduation walk in December so I got the required invitation letter but I am checking with the community if this is the best path forward for the visa interview considering it has been so long since I got my degree?

Thanks, Sagar

Sagar, Frankly, it does not matter. Having said that, Graduation Walk is a big deal for many and it can be a nice way to invite your parents. It could be a good reason to share with VO as well, if asked.

Thanks for your reply, Kumar.

Is the bank statement, account verification, and other financial documents required if I am inviting with the graduation walk invitation letter?

Sagar, Not really, if they are going to be sponsoring the trip. Usually, if you are sponsoring the trip, it helps to carry them. Again, these are supporting documents and not mandated by them to show.

I’m so thankful for this comprehensive guide on the US visitor visa for parents. It’s not easy to find such detailed information in one place. Your blog post addresses common concerns and provides practical advice. Keep up the excellent work! check -t.ly/NaxHX for more details related to this blog

Hi can you help out I have apply US visa for my parents, my graduation and grad walk completed I am on OPT, if interviewer ask my parents, what is your son doing? What answers should they have to reply? Please reply

Deepthi, You should exactly answer what you are doing on OPT. Never cook up answers.

Please show me the step-by-step process of requesting my mother’s US Visitor Visa(B2). I am a US-born and raised citizen and would like to request my mother to visit the US. What documents would I need? Where would I apply? Please help me with a step-by-step process.

Erica, The process is exactly same as what is outlined above. Re-read the article.

My father is 80 above and he has only drop box appointment, can my mom drop off his documents along with her documents ? I guess he doesn’t need to go to OFC right ? Please advise.

Naveen, Yes, he does not need to go. Yes, your Mom can drop off documents. Carry an authorization letter from your dad to make life easier during submission and pickup.

Hi, I filled the application for parents in 2021 and they have visa interview in October 2023. In DS-160, we filled the intend travel dates back in 2021. But because of COVID, there were no interview slots. Do we need to fill a new DS-160 now to change the intend travel dates? or the older version is still fine?

How do we satisfy this “Your travel itinerary and/or other explanation about your planned trip.” Do we need to book tickets beforehand? or is it not necessary?

Thanks for your post. Very informative!

1) How imp. is form I-134 if parent is 80+ pension holder and have sufficient amt. In his bank in india. 2) if not filling I134 should we(GC holder) still submit our pay check, bank statements etc. 3) if son in law filled Ds160 cover letter for supporting documents should be signex by him only

My sister graduated from BTech in August 2022 and has been preparing for CAT exam by attending coaching center since then. In the primary occupation section of ds160, should I mention UNEMPLOYED(with above explanation) or STUDENT(with coaching center details)?

Eshwar, Coaching Center is not really an institution that gives degree like University. You should mention unemployed.

I am working on OPT.In DS160 of my parents, i have mentioned that they will be sponsoring their trip. Is it better to provide my sponsorship or is it ok if they themselves sponsor..what are the documents required

403 Permission Denied You do not have permission for this request /wp-content/uploads/securepdfs/2018/10/US-Parents-Visa-Cover-letter-for-Consulate-for-B2-Visa.pdf

Sample Document Templates for Parents US Visitor Visa link is not working , Says permission Denied , Please help

Yeah, says Permission denied. Have downloaded

Thanks for the detailed writeup

Can you please confirm if – 1. Photo will be taken at the VAC or parents need to take photos themselves to the appointment

2. Also we suddenly got the appointment rescheduled for next week( it was originally end of 2023) . There is not enough time to get letter from bank and send originals via post.

Are copies of my US Bank statements enough , or will it cause any problem from any previous experience. Should I postpone the appointment.

Hi, I scheduled appointment for my parents B1/B2 in AUG 2021, the interview is on APRIL 2023. I saw a rule that DS 160 is only valid for 1 year which means it’s almost 1.5years since I booked the appointment.my only doubt is do my parents need to file new DS 160 and take it to the interview or does the old one is fine? Please help !

You need to update their existing DS160 with the recent information applicable.

I have a similar situation. Does updating the DS 160 form with recent information mean i’ll need to apply for new interview dates? Or the original appointment dates still stand.

Hi, in my fathers application DA-160 I have selected visa category as B1/B2 instead of B2. He has already taken appointment too. Will there be any issue because of visa category? Should I fill out a new DS-160 with visa type as B2 before the interview or is it okay to select visa type as B1/B2.

Hello, in my fathers visa application DS-160 I have selected visa category as B1/B2 instead of only B2. Will there be any issue in the interview because of this? Should I fill out a new DS-160 with B2 as category. He has already take the appointment date with B1/B2 category selected.

Hi, My current H1B visa validity is up to September 1st, 2023. My company will be soon filing for extension. I am sponsoring my parents B2 visa. They have got the interviewed scheduled later in this month (March 2023). I have got all the documents ready. My question is will my current visa validity be an issue during their interview?

I am on similar boat. My i-94 is valid till July 2nd 2023. I am still looking for appointment. Should I wait till I get my i797 approved and new i-94 or can I book an appointment if I get one soon. Can you let us know what the experience of your parents was. TIA

Hi, I am on H1b. My mother already has a valid B1/B2 visa and she is visiting to USA this month. Because of my i94 expiring sooner(due to passport expiry), I plan my aunt (mother’s sister) who is US citizen to send her invitation letter for immigration purpose at point of entry. Can you please provide some guidance on what documents of Aunt will be required to be carried in this case?

Currently I got my H1B stamping done in January 2023 and I’m still in India.

I want to apply B1/B2 for my mother and travel with her to US(my first time travel to US)

Can I book slot with her without myself going there atleast once ? Will they ask any additional questions? What are the chances of rejection

Hi, My parents have B2 visa interview slot mid march. I am sponsoring for there visit. The last name in there passport and my passport is different ( there is a spelling mistake). Would it be a reason for rejecting visa. And also are there any other documents that I can provide to support this situation. Please help me.

I am having the same issue. But my husband is sponsoring for my parents. Did your parents get the visa now?

We booked visa interview for both mom and dad, but my dad is not in a position to go for the interview. can my mom go for the interview and able to get visa for both ??

purni, No, I highly doubt it for normal cases. If you are going to the US for medical treatment, you may try to explain the same to US embassy and ask for exception, I have not seen anyone get stamping without going to interview for normal cases. Do update how it goes.

Hi im married to a citizen in usa ( married for three years now) , my paper work is still in process. is there going to be any problem if my husband sponsers my mother for tourist visa to usa from India ? Will there be any issue since my papers are still in process?

Ana, It should not be as long as the person is able to support with relevant documentation on how he will pay for the trip.

Hi, My husband is a H1 visa holder and i got H4 recently and my mother will be giving her B2 visa interview in march. So i had a query regarding her B2 related documents. My husband is going to sponsor her trip completely also i am going to travel with her to US. But the thing is my mother is not together with my father like in 2020 due to conflicts my mother left the house along with me and now she is living in a rented apartment. So for showing proof of funds she has got her mutual funds and the money she invested after her retirement also she has some problem with the pension as the pension application is under process not sure when it will get resolved.But for property she dosnt have those papers as they are with my father and the house is under boths name but the papers are difficult to obtain as my father wont give them. So what documents can be shared in this case. Can someone help me out?

vedanti, If your husband is going to sponsor, all the documents of your mother related to finances are irrelevant. Frankly, all of these documents are just supporting ones and not required. Tell her to be confident. Carry the bank statement from your husband, and whatever documents she has and be honest and say the reason for visit. Try to keep it simple and answer confidently.

What to reply in case if they ask her why im still here and not in us. What should be the reason in that case for visiting. Only son in law is present in US. So what can be better? That visiting son in law or both and tourism?

Vedanti, You should tell the truth. Do not make up anything and answer, they will identify false answers easily. Tell the truth!

I am on H1b Visa I have applied B1/B2 visa for my parents. Do I need to fill I-134 form as well. They have sufficient amount in their accounts and they are running business in India. Still do I need to fill I-134?

Ram, It is optional and not needed.

Hi Kumar, I am currently on H1B and I want my parents to come visit me on B2 visa. Is it fine for my parents to sponsor their trip on their own instead of me and what are the disadvantages of doing that?

MM, Yes, they can. There are no disadvantages to that. As long as they have the financials to support them for the trip, they should be fine.

I am in the usa on a h1b, also i have my aunt living here and she is a citizen. My mother wishes to come to states to meet her on a b2 visa.

would it be okay if my aunt provides the invitation letter instead of me? will there be uncomfortable questions asked in the interview and can this cause complications.

Mohsin, As said, both works. yes, there could some tricky questions as well, why sister, when you have son, etc. So, best to go with your letter.

I am on a h1b visa and I have an aunt(moms sister) who is a US citizen. Is it advisable to have my aunt send the invitation for the B2 visa for my mom and dad, instead of me sending it. Will this create trouble during the interview.

Mohsin, It does not matter. Either works. It is best for you to send as you will be the main person sponsoring her and she would mainly stay with you. Again, it is a choice, both works.

Hello, I am an H1 B holder and having B2 visa interview for my mother next month. Does cover letter/ Invitation letter or any documents needs my signature OR just send soft copy and print out would do. Any info on this would be greatly appreciated! Thanks

Vishal, There is no official rule that tells you need a wet signature. It is just suggested. Personally, I sent it. As long as there is an invite, it should work as well. It is your discretion.

My father is 74 year old and is suffering from depression and now having some memory loss too. Can I accompany him for b2 visa interview

Nidhi, Sorry to hear. You can request consulate for the same. You need to write to them indicating the same. You can accompany as a translator as well. Need to plan ahead.

For a B2 visa if VISA officer requires further documents or details will they notify us what is required or they reject the visa, does anyone know or has any experience, please share.

Sandeep, They will tell immediately if they want more documents. If not, they can issued 214b and ask to reapply, which does not require any documents.

Hi, 1. Should I choose B1/B2 category in DS-160 or only B2 when applying for visa for my parents? 2. I’m applying for tourist visa for my parents as well as 28 year old brother(unmarried) – can all 3 of them attend the same appointment slot?

Hitesh, 1. It would be B2 2. Well, as he is 28 years old, not sure. You can check with customer service. If under 21, can add for sure under dependent.

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How Can I Bring My Parents to Visit the United States?

bring parents to visit usa

This article will help answering some of the basic questions you may have if you would like your parents to temporarily visit you in the United States. However, we encourage you to talk to an experienced lawyer about your specific case in order to avoid any potential problems and complications.

  If your parents want to temporarily visit (and not permanently live in ) the United States, they must first obtain a visitor visa (visa category B-1/B-2). Visitor visas are non-immigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), tourism, pleasure or visiting (visa category B-2), or a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).

Some examples of activities permitted with a B-1 Business Visa include: consulting with business associates; attending a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference; settling an estate; negotiating a contract.

Some examples of activities permitted with a B-2 Tourism and Visit Visa include: tourism; vacation (holiday); visiting with friends or relatives; medical treatment; participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations; participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating; enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation).

Some examples of activities that require different categories of visas and cannot be done while on a visitor visa include: study; employment; paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience; arrival as a crew-member on a ship or aircraft; work as foreign press, radio, film, journalists, and other information media; permanent residence in the United States.

A) Do My Parents Need a Visa?

If your parents are citizens of one of the 38 currently designated countries, they may be able to visit the United States on Visa Waiver Program. Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of certain countries to come to the United States without a visa for a stay of 90 days or less. For more information, and to see a list of designated countries, please visit https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visa-waiver-program.html .

If your parents’ country of citizenship is not on the list, or if they would like to visit the United States for longer than 3 months, they will need to apply for a visitor visa.

B) How to Apply for a Visitor Visa (visa category B-1/B-2)?

To apply for a visitor visa, your parents will need complete the Online Non-immigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160). It needs to be completed and submitted online and is available on the Department of State website: https://ceac.state.gov/genniv/ .

C) What to Expect after Applying for Visa?

Once your parents applied for a visitor visa online, they will go to the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where they live for a visa interview.

If your parents are 80 years old or older, then an interview is generally not required. But if your parents are under 80, then an interview is usually required (with some exceptions for renewals).

Your parents must schedule an appointment for their visa interview, generally, at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where they live. While visa applicants may schedule their interview at any U.S. Embassy or Consulate, it may be difficult to qualify for a visa outside of the applicant’s place of permanent residence.

The Department of State encourages applicants, including your parents, to apply for their visa early because the wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category.

Before the interview, your parents have to gather and prepare the following documents required by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate: (1) a valid passport (must be valid for at least six months beyond their period of stay in the United States); (2) non-immigrant visa application (Form DS-160) confirmation page; (3) application fee payment receipt; (4) photo.

D) What to Expect during the Visitor Visa Interview?

During your parents’ visa interview, a consular officer will determine whether they are qualified to receive a visa, and if so, which visa category is appropriate based on their purpose of travel.

To be approved for a visitor visa, your parents will need to show that:

  • They are coming to the United States temporarily for an authorized purpose, such as to visit their family, to travel, to visit sightseeing sites, etc.
  • They will not engage in unauthorized activities such as employment. Sometimes, even babysitting a relative’s child may be considered unauthorized employment. For example, while your mother is certainly allowed to visit your child – her grandchild – and spend time with him or her, she cannot be coming specifically for the purpose of babysitting the child.
  • They have permanent residence in their home country, to which they will return. This is shown by demonstrating close ties to their home country such as family relationships, employment, business ownership, school attendance, and/or property ownership.
  • They have sufficient financial means to pay for travel expenses and expenses of intended activities. If your parents cannot cover all the costs for their trip, they may show evidence that you or another person will cover some or all costs for their trip.

To establish that your parents qualify for a visa, they must prepare documentation to prove that they satisfy the above requirements. For that reason, it is important that your parents thoroughly prepare for their interview and collect all the necessary documents. A good attorney can guide them through this process.

E) What Happens after the Visitor Visa Interview?

At your parents’ visa interview, their applications may be approved, denied, or they may require further administrative processing.

If your parents’ visas are approved, they will be informed how and when their passports with visas will be returned to them.

If your parents’ visas are denied, they can reapply at any time. However, unless there is a substantial change in their circumstances, it will be very difficult to receive a visa after a denial. For that reason, it is best to consult an experienced attorney before your parents initially apply for a visa to improve their chances of an approval.

F) What Happens after Visa Approval?

When your parents enter the United States with a visitor visa, they will usually be permitted to stay in the United States for up to 6 months, although the specific time they are allowed to stay will be determined at the border and indicated on your parents’ Form I-94. If your parents wish to stay beyond the time indicated on the Form I-94, they may apply for an extension or change of status.

For more information about visitor visas and application process, please see the Department of State website: https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visitor.html .

It is important to get in touch with a good immigration lawyer in the United States as early as possible to avoid potential problems and to plan the best immigration strategy for your family. Attorneys at I.S. Law Firm have provided immigration help to many immigrants and their families. To learn more about our services and for consultation, please contact us at +1-703-527-1779 or via e-mail: [email protected] .

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Visa

Article Title: How Can I Bring My Parents to Visit the United States?

Short Description: Many immigrants who live in the United States want to “sponsor” their parents to come to the United States either to visit their family or to live permanently with their family. The term “sponsor” usually means to bring to the United States or “petition for.” Such immigrants often reach out to immigration lawyers in the United States for guidance on how to sponsor their parents to come to the United States for either purpose. This article will help answering some of the basic questions you may have if you would like your parents to temporarily visit you in the United States.

Author: Ismail Shahtakhtinski

Publisher - Orgnization: I.S. Law Firm, PLLC

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How to Get a U.S. Tourist Visa for Your Parents

Learn how to help your parents apply for a b2 travel visa, in this guide.

  • Submitting the Travel Visa Application
  • B2 Visa Interview Process
  • Related Information

If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and you’re planning a family trip or want to bring your parents over from abroad for a visit, the first step is to help them apply for a B2 tourist visa.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to guide your parents through the travel visa application, help them prepare for the visa interview, and more.

Boundless’ B-1/B-2 travel visa service offers more than just help with your forms. We’ll help assemble your entire application, file it with the U.S. government on your behalf, and help schedule your visa interview. You’ll even get interview prep tips from a former consular officer who knows what it takes to succeed. Get started today!

Get personalized, end-to-end visa support with Boundless.

Learn more today

Determine Visa Eligibility

In order to help your parents apply, they must meet the eligibility requirements for a U.S. tourist visa , also known as a B-2 visa. Your parents must be able to demonstrate that they have strong ties to their home country and intend to return after their visit to the U.S. For more details on how to prove strong ties to home, check out Boundless’ guide .

Many people wonder if they can apply for a travel visa for their parents. It’s important to note that it is not possible to “sponsor” a family member for a temporary tourist visa or apply for the visa on their behalf. If you’re interested in helping your parents immigrate to the U.S., you would need to go through a separate process and sponsor them for an IR-5 parent visa .

Complete the Travel Visa Application

Once you’re ready to move forward with the travel visa process, you’ll need to help your parents complete the online travel visa application, Form DS-160 . This form collects biographical information, travel plans, and other details about the travel visa applicant. Each applicant must fill out a separate DS-160, meaning both parents will need to file their own forms in instances where both parents intend on traveling to the U.S.

You can learn more about the DS-160 process and how to complete the form at Boundless’ detailed guide .

Pay the Visa Application Fee

The visa application fee for a B-2 visa is $185, and it is non-refundable. Payment options vary depending on which country your parents are applying from, but most U.S. Embassies and consulates accept online payment via credit card or electronic transfer. Your parents will need to print the receipt as proof of payment.

Schedule the Visa Interview

After filing the DS-160 forms, your parents must schedule visa appointments at the U.S. Embassy or consulate in their home country. It’s possible to schedule online or by phone, depending on the location. Applicants will need to provide their passport number, DS-160 confirmation number, and payment receipt to schedule the appointment.

Gather Supporting Documents

Once the appointments are scheduled, you can help your parents gather the required supporting documents . They’ll need to bring several documents to the visa interview, including:

  • Passport: The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in the U.S. and have at least one blank page.
  • Photograph: Your parents will need to bring a recent, color photograph of themselves that meets the U.S. visa requirements.
  • Evidence of strong ties to their home country: As mentioned above, strong ties can include proof of employment, property ownership, financial assets, or family connections.
  • Travel itinerary: Your parents should bring a copy of their travel itinerary , including flight details and hotel reservations.
  • Invitation letter: You may choose to write an optional letter inviting your parents to visit you in the U.S. The letter should include your contact information, the purpose of their visit, and the duration of their stay.

Attend the Visa Interview

Your parents will need to appear in person at the U.S. Embassy or consulate for the visa interview. The interview usually lasts about 15 minutes, during which a consular officer will ask questions about your parents’ travel plans, their ties to their home country, and other relevant topics. Your parents should answer truthfully and provide any requested documents noted above.

The visa interview can be a stressful process, but you can help your parents prepare with confidence by following the tips in Boundless’ travel visa interview guide . We also provide a list of sample interview questions you can practice with your parents, so they know what kinds of questions to expect.

Receive a Decision

After the interview, your parents will receive a decision from the consular officer and if approved, they’ll need to wait for their tourist visa to be processed. The length of time can vary depending on the embassy or consulate, but it usually takes a few days to several weeks. Your parents should not make any travel arrangements until they receive their official B2 visa.

Prepare for Travel

After the visitor visa is approved, you can start planning your parents’ travels to the U.S.! You should make sure that your parents are prepared for the trip by gathering any necessary documents (such as travel insurance ) and making the necessary travel arrangements. If it’s your parents’ first time flying into the U.S., you may want to help familiarize them with U.S. airport requirements and how to navigate U.S. customs before their flight.

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Application for a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)

You need to give your biometrics.

In most cases, you now need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics) after you apply.

Find out who needs to give biometrics and how the new application process works.

Biometrics and the application process

Image that represents the different stages of the application process and biometrics.

We refer to your fingerprints and photo as biometrics. We collect biometrics for most applications. Find out what happens from when you submit your application to when you get to Canada and where biometrics fits in the process.

1. Apply for your visitor visa, study permit or work permit

If you want to visit, study or work in Canada, make sure you’re eligible to apply. Use our application guides to help fill out your application properly, then submit your application.

Avoid processing delays by sending us a complete application .

2. Get your fingerprints and photo taken

If you’re between 14 and 79 years old, you probably need to give your fingerprints and photo (biometrics).You only need to give your biometrics once every 10 years to make repeat trips to Canada easier.

  • You must pay the  biometrics fee   when you submit your application.  Otherwise you may experience delays.
  • Get this done  as soon as you get the letter  from us that tells you to give biometrics.
  • You have  30 days  to do this from the date on the letter.

Find out who needs to give , how to give , and  where to give your biometrics .

COVID-19: Biometrics deadline

Some biometrics collection sites are closed. If the site closest to you is closed, we’ll extend your deadline to give your biometrics. Find out how COVID-19 is affecting biometrics .

3. We process your application

After we get your biometrics, we start processing your application. See how long it takes to process your application.

If we need more information from you, we’ll contact you.

4. We make a decision on your application

When we finish reviewing your application, we let you know if you’re approved to come to Canada. If you are, we issue your documents.

If your application is refused, we send you a letter that tells you why.

5. You travel to Canada (if you’re approved)

Make sure you travel with the documents we gave you. This includes travel documents like a visitor visa, study or work permits or an eTA (electronically linked to your passport).

Airline staff and border service officers at ports of entry will ask to see your travel documents. If you don’t have them, you may not be able to board your flight to Canada.

Make sure children under 18 travel with the right documents .

6. We check your identity when you arrive in Canada

When you arrive, we check your identity to make sure that you are the same person who was approved to travel to Canada. We may use your biometrics to do this.

If we can’t verify your identity, you may be detained by a border services officer. These officers help protect the health and safety of Canadians.

If the officer determines that you’re not admissible to Canada, you won’t be allowed to enter Canada. If you came by air, you’ll have to take a return flight to where you came from.

7. You’re allowed to enter Canada

If you pass the identity check and meet the entry requirements , the border services officer stamps your passport and lets you know how long you can stay in Canada. You’re normally allowed to stay in Canada for up to six months.

Children under 18 must meet the same entry requirements as adults. The border services officer may ask minor children to show other documents depending on whether the child is travelling alone or with someone.

Basic entry requirements

You must meet some basic requirements to enter Canada. You must:

  • have a valid travel document, like a passport
  • be in good health
  • have no criminal or immigration-related convictions
  • convince an immigration officer that you have ties—such as a job, home, financial assets or family—that will take you back to your home country
  • convince an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your visit
  • The amount of money you will need depends on how long you will stay and if you will stay in a hotel, or with friends or relatives.

Some people are not admissible to Canada, which means they are not allowed to enter the country. You can be inadmissible for several reasons, including being involved in:

  • criminal activity
  • human rights violations
  • organized crime

You can also be inadmissible for security, health or financial reasons.

Find out more about inadmissibility .

Biometrics fee

  • Individual  applicant: CAD $85
  • Families applying at the same time : maximum total fee of CAD $170
  • Groups of 3 or more performing artists and their staff  who apply for work permits at the same time: maximum total fee of $CAD 255

You can apply online or on paper (in specific situations) for:

  • visitor visas (also known as temporary resident visas)
  • super visas (for parents and grandparents)
  • transit visas

Apply online

Before you apply, make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

You must have both of these to apply online:

  • access to a scanner or camera to create electronic copies of your documents to upload
  • a valid credit card to pay with

How you apply depends on what you apply for. Select the document you want to apply for to get instructions:

Visitor visa : Option 1 of 3

Apply for a visitor visa

Super visa (for parents and grandparents) : Option 2 of 3

Apply for a super visa

Transit visa : Option 3 of 3

Apply for a transit visa

Apply on paper (in specific situations)

Before you apply , make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada .

Read the instruction guide to get all the details to apply on paper.

  • Instruction Guide 5256

Once you have read the guide, you can prepare your application package. You must select the country or territory from which you will apply to get your local visa office instructions.

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Permanent residents of Canada

We do not issue temporary resident visas (TRV) to permanent residents (PR). If you are outside Canada without a valid PR card, you must apply for a permanent resident travel document (PRTD) instead. If you meet the requirements for a PRTD, you can return to Canada as a PR.

If you no longer want to be a PR, or if you know you do not meet the requirements to keep your PR status, you can voluntarily give up (renounce) your PR status to apply for a TRV.

Application for Temporary Resident Visa

You can’t fill out and save the application form using your Internet browser. To use the form, you need to:

  • Use your computer (Mac or PC). The form won’t open on mobile devices (iPads, tablets, mobile phones, etc.)
  • Install Adobe Reader 10 (or higher)
  • Download the PDF file to your computer . Save the file in a place you can remember.
  • Make sure you use Adobe Reader to open the form. Sometimes if you try to open the form directly, it will use your Internet browser to try to open it.

Note: If you are applying online , you don’t need to print and sign the form. Leave the signature section empty.

Get the form

  • Application for Temporary Resident Visa [IMM 5257] (PDF, 556.66 KB) June 2019

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  • I can’t open my visa application form in PDF format. What can I do?
  • After clicking the “validate” button on my visa application form, nothing happens and I don’t see the barcodes. Why is this happening?

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The DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, is for temporary travel to the United States, and for K (fiancé(e)) visas. Form DS-160 is submitted electronically to the Department of State website via the Internet. Consular Officers use the information entered on the DS-160 to process the visa application and, combined with a personal interview, determine an applicant’s eligibility for a nonimmigrant visa.

Visa applicants must submit a completed DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application for all nonimmigrant visa categories, including applicants applying for K visas. ( Note:   For K visa cases in process at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate prior to October 7, 2013, review the limited exceptions explained in the FAQs below.) 

Review the Frequently Asked Questions for instructions about using the DS-160.

Access the online DS-160 by clicking: Consular Electronic Application Center website .

Important Notice to Visa Applicants: After you have completed the DS-160, you must take these next steps below:

  • Print and keep the DS-160 barcode page. (You will not need to print the full application.)
  • You must schedule a visa interview appointment.  (The U.S. Embassy or Consulate does not schedule an appointment for you.) Visit the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  website where you will be interviewed for country-specific instructions.;
  • Pay the visa application processing fee . Review country-specific instructions on the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  website.

More Information

A-Z Index Latest News What is a U.S. Visa? Diversity Visa Program Visa Waiver Program Fraud Warning Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Straight Facts on U.S. Visas

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 Parent Visitor Visa to the USA – 2022 Complete Guide

Parent Visitor Visa to the USA – 2022 Complete Guide

If you want your parents to come to visit you in the United States, we help you in finding the answers to some of your more fundamental questions about applying for a Visitor Visa for them in their home country.

Currently, the visa application process is taking longer than usual due to backlogs at visa processing centers/US consulates. This has impacted countries where the US embassies/consulates see a large volume of visa applications, like India.

The US Embassy & Consulates in India recently announced opening up appointments for 1st time B-1/B-2 Visitor visa appointments from 1st September 2022. Anyone, renewing their visa within 28 months of expiry will continue to be eligible for an interview waiver.

If you want to secure a Visitor Visa for your parents then you need to be on top of the application process. Read on to find more details about the process in this article.

You generally do not need immigration services from a lawyer/attorney, the US Visitor Visa application process can be managed by yourself. If you are short on time and need professional help then consider obtaining professional/immigration services.

If you have already secured a visitor visa for your parents then read about Travel Insurance for Parents visiting the USA . You can generate free no-obligation travel insurance quotes from here.

Travel Medical Insurance for USA

What is a US Visitor Visa?

Non-Immigrant visitor visas are available to those who wish to briefly enter the country:

  • Business – visa category B-1
  • Tourism – visa category B-2

The B1/B2 Visa is popularly known as the Visitor Visa OR the Tourist Visa.

B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa for the USA

If you want to visit the United States temporarily you can apply for a Visitor Visa i.e. the B-1/B-2 visa.

If you live in the United States and want your parents to visit you then you can apply for a visitor visa for them to be able to come and visit you.

Parent Visitor Visa to the USA

Visa Status and Allowed Activities

There are several visa categories and the activities allowed under each of them. As far as a parent’s visa for visiting the USA is concerned the Visitor Visa and activities allowed under them are:

B-1 Visa/Business Visa may be used for activities such as:

  • Attend Business Meetings
  • Consulting with business partners
  • Attending conventions or conferences
  • Settling estates, and contract negotiations

B-2 Visa/Tourist Visa may be used for activities such as:

  • Tourism, Vacation, Holiday
  • Visiting friends or family
  • Receiving medical treatment
  • Taking part in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
  • Amateur participation in musical, sporting, or similar events or contests (can’t be paid for such activities)
  • Enrolling in a brief recreational course of study that is not for credit toward a degree

Parent Visitor Visa to the USA

Note: B1/B2 visa falls under the non-immigrant visa category, this category of visa is popularly known as a Visitor Visa for temporary visits to the USA. If you want to bring your parents/family members permanently to the US then explore other categories of Visas.

As you prepare for your parents to visit the United States you will find this information helpful on travel insurance .

Documents to Check before starting the Visitor Visa Application process?

To apply for a B1/B2 visa you need to first collect all the documents needed to submit the visitor visa application.

Have a valid passport?

You need a passport valid for 6 months beyond the planned period of stay in the USA.

Consider applying for a new passport for your parents before initiating a visitor visa application process if:

  • Parents never had a passport
  • Currently don’t have a valid passport
  • A valid passport is nearing its expiry date
  • The passport is torn/damaged

Bank Account Statements & other financial-related documents?

Being able to display the availability of funds for the planned trip and strong ties to the home country for returning after the visit makes for a strong case for parents’ visas.

The required documents need to support their financial strength (bank statements/bank verification letter) and/or your resources to support your parents while they are visiting you in the USA. Collect documents like real estate/property ownership documents and other relevant papers to demonstrate ties to the home country.

The funds available in the bank account should be >= $5,000 -10,000 or more. If this is not a concern and the bank account balances are usually higher, you can go ahead with the application. If you need to arrange for the money then it is recommended to start the process once you have accumulated the needed funds.

Do I Need a Tourist Visa OR a Visitor Visa to Enter the United States?

The only people who must apply for a tourist visa/visitor visa/b1-b2 visa to the USA are those who are not part of the US Visa Waiver Program .

You’re in luck if your country offers visa waivers. You can simply follow the easy steps to apply for an ESTA , and after that, plan your trip.

What are the requirements for a Visitor Visa?

Your visit must be for one of the following reasons if you want to obtain a US visitor visa:

  • Enjoy your holiday in America.
  • Visit several American cities.
  • Visit family or friends.
  • Attend social gatherings that various organizations host.
  • To receive medical treatment or care.
  • Take part in music or sports-related events or competitions (not being paid for them).
  • Enroll in brief study courses that you won’t get credit for (ex. cooking classes).

If you do not fit into any of the aforementioned categories, you should research additional US non-immigrant visa categories to determine if you are eligible for any other visa category.

You will also need to show that you have the financial resources to support your stay in the US on a B1/B2 Visa and that you intend to leave the nation as soon as your approved stay/visa expires.

How can I obtain a US tourist visa?

You must follow these basic steps to apply for a US tourist visa OR the Visitor Visa:

Submit the DS-160 form.

  • Pay the fees for the visa.

Schedule your Visa interview

  • Create the file for your B2 Visa documents.
  • Attend the interview

Send in your contact information as well as information on why you are visiting. For your US tourist visa, you must complete the required documentation and submit it online. You will receive a verification confirmation page and code after submitting it, which you must keep for your document file.

The DS-160 form is available online either with assistance from a visa processing assistant or through the Consular Electronic Application Center.

Pay Fees for the Visa

The application fee for a b1/b2 visa is $160. You might also be required to pay additional fees, depending on how your nation and the US are related. They are known as visa issuance fees, and they differ from one nation to the other.

After completing the payments, you need an application fee payment receipt to proceed further on your application. Keep all your papers/documents organized in a file that can be taken for the visa interview.

All visa applicants must attend a visa interview at the US Embassy and must be between the ages of 14 and 79.

You must make an appointment with the US Embassy in your home country to attend this visa interview. Considering their heavy workload, be sure to schedule an appointment as soon as you can.

You will receive an interview confirmation letter following the completion of this process, which you must bring with you to the interview.

Create the file for your B1/B2 Visa documents.

All the additional supporting documents are in the file you have, which demonstrates to the US Embassy that it is safe to grant you a visa. At your visa appointment, all required paperwork must be brought with you.

You must submit the following required documents/paperwork when applying for a B1/B2 visa:

  • Valid passport
  • A picture that complies with the rules and specifications
  • Page and confirmation code for the DS-160 form
  • Receipt for the paid visa fees
  • Confirmation page for the visitor visa interview
  • A letter outlining the objective of your journey
  • Evidence of financial capacity: Financial or bank letter demonstrating that you have at least $266 available for each day of your intended stay in the US
  • Ties to your native nation: family, employment contract, rental agreement, or property deed, which attest to your return
  • An optional invitation letter from US-based friends or family
  • Criminal history or a letter from the authorities confirming your innocence
  • The records of your previous trips. This only applies if you’ve previously traveled to the US
  • Certificates or transcripts. Only students are affected by this
  • An employment verification letter from your employer and the previous three months’ pay stubs for those who are employed
  • Documents of your relative’s immigration status in the US
  • Letters from your doctors detailing your diagnosis and care if you’re traveling for a medical reason
  • Social media information: list the social networks you are a member of, along with the name of your account

Attend the Visa Interview

On the day of your interview, a consular officer will quiz you about your past and the reasons you wish to visit the USA.

The consular officer will examine your papers to make sure everything is in order. Although the interviews are brief, it is important to provide all pertinent information.

If a question is not understood then there is no harm in asking the visa officer to repeat the question rather than trying to answer without context.

The visa officer will decide if the case merits a visa approval or a denial or needs more information. If the visa is approved then the passport will be mailed back with the visa stamped on the passport.

Note: For parents who don’t speak English, local language interview appointments are usually available as an option.

Important Links

Check out these links from the US State Government Website and the US Travel Document Official Website for information on how to successfully process a DS-160 form for your parents.

Consider getting travel health insurance for your parents if they are planning to visit you in the USA.

1) How long does it take to process a B1/B2 Visa Application?

The processing of the B1/B2 visitor visa could take a few weeks to a few months. Processing dates vary from nation to nation because they are heavily influenced by the workload of the US Embassy where you submitted your application. Covid-19 has heavily impacted the processing timelines.

2) How long parents can stay on a visitor visa in the USA?

A B2 visa allows for a stay of up to 6 months OR as approved at the port of entry by the CBP officer. You are free to go anywhere in the US or for any other reason during that period. You must go back to your country of residence nonetheless after your visa expires.

If you want your parents to stay longer then you can consider filing a stay extension before their approved stay expires.

3) Do I Need a US Tourist Visa to Apply for a Green Card?

If you are visiting the country as a tourist, it is extremely challenging to obtain permanent residence or a Green Card. Since the B2 visa is only valid for a short period, you must demonstrate that you will leave the USA when your approved stay or visa expires. Additionally, you are prohibited from looking for work or enrolling in school, which means that you might not be able to take the simplest routes to obtain permanent residence.

4) Do tourists have access to American healthcare?

American healthcare is extremely expensive , and if someone had an ankle or wrist broken in the past year, the average cost for the treatment would be about $2,500. While the average cost of a single night in a US hospital is over $10,000.

Therefore, the purchase of visitor medical insurance is recommended. If your parents have pre-existing medical conditions then this information will be helpful. If your parents have pre-existing conditions then read about travel insurance plans that cover pre-existing conditions.

5) Can my parents visit me in the USA with a B2 visa?

You can ask your parents to come to visit you if you are studying, working, obtaining permanent residence or are a Green Card holder, or have become a citizen in the US.

6) What is the validity of a visitor visa/b1-b2 visa?

The B-1/B-2 visitor visa is generally issued with a validity of 10 years however you can stay for a maximum of 6 months at a stretch or as approved during entry to the USA. Obtaining a visa is not a guarantee to enter the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers will ultimately decide at the port of entry if you will be allowed into the country. If allowed into the country then your I-94 record will contain the details of your approved stay.

We sincerely hope that this article has given you enough information to help you through the entire process.

The B1/B2 Visa is the most commonly issued visa at the same time there are many cases where the visas are rejected, even for parents wanting to visit their children in the USA.

There have been many cases where the visa is approved for one parent but rejected for the other. This usually happens when the appointments were scheduled on different dates for each parent and for some reason the visa officer was not convinced of the reasons for the visit during the interview.

So plan ahead, organize, and prep up your parents as needed. If they are well-traveled internationally then perhaps they don’t need hand-holding in this process whereas parents who have not traveled internationally may need more guidance on the process.

Assess your situation and plan according to it. All the best.

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Super visa for parents and grandparents

Parents and grandparents can visit their children or grandchildren for 5 years at a time with a super visa. It provides multiple entries for a period of up to 10 years.

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Processing times

Varies by country

Check processing times

You may need to give biometrics with your application. This processing time doesn’t include the time you need to give biometrics.

Processing times will vary based on:

  • the type of application submitted
  • if the application is complete
  • how quickly we expect to process applications we’ve already received
  • how easily we can verify your information
  • how long you take to respond to any requests or concerns
  • other factors

More people want to immigrate to Canada than we can bring in each year. Applications received after we meet our yearly limit may have to wait longer to be processed.

Learn how processing times are calculated .

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Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa

You can apply for this visa if you have children or grandchildren who are New Zealand citizens or residents. It allows you to travel in and out of New Zealand to visit your family.

Length of stay

Maximum total stay of 18 months in 3 years

Processing time

With this visa you can.

  • Visit your children or grandchildren in New Zealand.
  • Travel in and out of New Zealand multiple times.
  • Include your partner in your visa application.

Things to note

  • If you want to bring dependent children with you, they’ll need to apply for their own visas.
  • You can only apply for this visa while you’re outside of New Zealand.
  • If you are only planning to visit New Zealand once, the general Visitor Visa may suit you better. It has fewer requirements to meet.

Visitor Visa

Use the filters below to display relevant tips as well as detailed fees and receiving centre information

What you need to apply

Check if you are eligible to apply for this visa and what supporting documents and information you need to provide.

View All Evidence

You must provide proof of your identity

  • 1 acceptable photo if you apply online, or 2 photos if you use a paper application form.
  • your passport or certificate of identity .

Acceptable photos

If you apply online, you must upload a copy of your passport when you apply. We will let you know if you need to send your passport after you have applied.

Providing your passport for online applications

If you submit a paper application, provide your original passport or a certified copy.  We can usually process your application faster if you provide your original passport.

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after you plan to leave New Zealand.

Also provide a copy of your Identity card.

Also provide your:

  • Hukou (household registration book)
  • Chinese identity card.

If you are a citizen of China and you submit a paper application form in China, you must also complete a supplementary form.

Supplementary form for Chinese citizens (INZ 1027) PDF 338KB

If you are submitting a paper application form, you must provide a supplementary form for Hong Kong and Macao visitors, workers and students.

Supplementary form for Hong Kong and Macao visitors, workers and students (INZ 1220) PDF 240KB

You must be in good health

We may ask you to have a chest x-ray, a medical examination or both as proof of your good health.

If you are staying less than:

  • 6 months you do not normally need a chest x-ray. 
  • 12 months you do not normally need a medical certificate. 

Who needs an x-ray or medical examination

When we process your application we let you know if we need you to have a chest x-ray or medical examination.

Acceptable standard of health criteria for visa approvals

Please only provide medical certificates if requested

If you have a medical condition you should apply for your visa at least 4 months before you intend to travel to New Zealand as it will take longer to process your application.

People applying for a Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa must complete a chest X-ray and medical examination, unless you have previously provided medical certificates to us, and those certificates were issued in the last 36 months.

You must provide a chest x-ray completed in the last 3 months, even if you've provided one to us previously, if:

  • you have spent 6 consecutive months in China since the last x-ray certificate was issued, and
  • you are now coming to NZ for more than 6 months.

You must be of good character

If you have a criminal conviction or are a security risk to New Zealand we may not be able to grant you a visa.

Good character for temporary visas

You must provide police certificates if your total time in New Zealand will be 24 months or longer across all visits. This includes any time you have spent in New Zealand in the past on other visas, even if you have been out of the country since then.

You also must provide police certificates if we ask for them.

If you are 16 years old or younger you do not need to provide police certificates.

Providing police certificates

How to get a police certificate

If you have already sent us Police Certificates with a previous visa application and they are less than 24 months old, you do not need to send them again.

Police certificates must be less than 6 months old when you submit your application. They must be from any country you are a citizen of, or have spent more than 5 years in since you turned 17.

If you've previously spent 6 months or longer in NZ, but haven’t provided a police certificate from your home country before, you must provide one with this application.

Genuine intentions

You must genuinely intend to meet the conditions of your visa

When we decide if your intentions are genuine, we consider all the information:

  • you provide to support your application
  • we have about your personal circumstances, and
  • you provided in any previous applications.

Genuine intentions to visit, study or work in NZ

You must intend to visit your children or grandchildren in New Zealand.

Your children or grandchildren must intend to be in New Zealand when you visit.

Sponsorship

You must be sponsored by your child or grandchild, or their parent

To be eligible to sponsor you (and your partner), your sponsor must:

  • be a New Zealand citizen or resident 
  • be your child or grandchild, or their parent
  • be 18 or over 
  • meet our requirements for acceptable sponsors, and
  • not be sponsoring anyone else.

Criteria to sponsor a visa applicant

Process to become a sponsor

What sponsors must do while a visa holder is in New Zealand

Your sponsor’s immigration status

Your sponsor must be a New Zealand citizen or resident

You must provide an original or certified copy of your sponsor’s:

  • New Zealand passport, birth certificate or certificate of citizenship, or
  • New Zealand Resident Visa, or
  • Australian passport.

Your relationship to the sponsor

Your sponsor must be your child, grandchild, or the parent of your child or grandchild

You must provide evidence of your family relationship to your sponsor.

If your sponsor is the parent of your child or grandchild, but not your child, you must provide evidence of the sponsor’s relationship to your child or grandchild.

Evidence can include:

  • birth certificates  
  • adoption papers
  • any other documents that confirm your relationship to the sponsor, or the sponsor’s relationship to your child or grandchild.

You can provide household registration documents if these confirm your relationship to your sponsor.

Health care

You must agree to pay your own health care costs

You must declare in your visa application that you will pay the costs of any health care or medical assistance you receive in New Zealand.

We recommend that you have full medical insurance for the length of your visit.

If you’re unable to pay for your healthcare, your sponsor will be responsible for the costs.

Bring partner

Your partner must meet the requirements for this visa

To bring your partner, you must provide evidence:

  • of your relationship with your partner, like a marriage certificate
  • that your partner meets the identity, character and health requirements for this visa.

Partnership

You can’t include dependent children in your visa application – they’ll need to apply for their own visas.

Process and costs

The information below will help you understand the process, timeframes and costs involved in applying for this visa, so you can plan ahead and have the best chance of submitting a complete application.

We cannot display any process or costs information until you have provided your country details. Enter your country details in the panel above to view information relevant to your situation.

How to submit

Payment methods and receiving centre details if applicable.

We cannot display any receiving centre or payment method information until you have provided your country details. Enter your country details in the panel above to view information relevant to your situation.

These are the conditions that you must meet once you have your visa.

Entry permission

You must apply for entry permission when you arrive in New Zealand. You can do this by completing a digital New Zealand traveller declaration (NZTD), or an NZTD paper declaration.

New Zealand Customs and Biosecurity also check that you meet their entry requirements.

Arriving in New Zealand

You can be refused entry permission if:

  • you don’t meet our character requirements
  • your circumstances have changed since you were granted a visa
  • you refuse to let us to take your photo, or provide us with your fingerprints or an iris scan, if we ask you for them.

You can travel in and out of New Zealand, multiple times for up to 3 years.

You can stay for up to 6 months at a time, up to a maximum total stay of 18 months within 3 years.

Each visit may only last 6 months.

You must be sponsored by your child or grandchild, or their New Zealand parent.

Acceptable sponsors

You cannot  work in New Zealand on this visa.

Visa expiry

You can visit New Zealand multiple times until your visa expires, as long as:

  • each time you visit you stay for 6 months or less
  • your total stay in New Zealand is 18 months or less. 

Visa expiry dates are printed on a visa label or included in a visa letter.

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Family-based immigrant visas and sponsoring a relative

If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, you may be able to sponsor a family member for a Permanent Resident Card (Green Card). Learn about the process and who is eligible.

Categories of people eligible for family immigrant visas

Applying for a family-based immigrant visa is the first step in the process for the person you are sponsoring to become a permanent resident. There are two categories of this type of visa:

Immediate relative visas

These visas are for close relatives of U.S. citizens, such as spouses, unmarried children under 21, or parents. An unlimited number of visas are available for this visa category. These visas include:

  • IR1 and CR1 for spouses
  • IR2 for children
  • IR5 for parents

Family preference visas

A limited number of family preference visas are set aside each year for:

  • F1 visas unmarried children who are 21 years of age or older
  • F3 visas for married children
  • F4 visas for siblings
  • F2A visas for spouses and unmarried children under age 21
  • F2B visas for unmarried children who are 21 years of age or older

Check the U.S. Department of State’s chart of immigrant visa categories to learn more about each category of immediate relative and family sponsored visas .

How to apply for permanent residency for a family member

To sponsor your family member, submit a United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) Form I-130 . Each person you sponsor needs a separate Form I-130. You can submit the form online or by mail.

The process for your relative to immigrate to the U.S. requires that both you, as the sponsor, and your relative, as the visa applicant, complete the necessary steps.

The process is different depending on whether your family member is already in the U.S. or abroad.

  • If your family member is in the U.S. - Learn about Adjustment of Status
  • If your family member is outside the U.S. - Learn the steps for Consular Processing

Submitting Form I-130 is the first step of the immigration visa process. Learn what other steps are involved , including:

  • National Visa Center (NVC) processing
  • Fee payments
  • Required supporting documents
  • Interview preparation

LAST UPDATED: December 8, 2023

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Bringing Parents to Live in the United States as Permanent Residents

To petition for your parents (mother or father) to live in the United States as Green Card holders, you must be a U.S. citizen and at least 21 years old. Green Card holders (permanent residents) may not petition to bring parents to live permanently in the United States.

The table below describes what steps you must take to petition depending upon your circumstances:

Note : If your name or your parent’s name has changed, please include proof of the legal name change (may include marriage certificate, divorce decree, adoption decree, court judgment of name change, etc.)

We will notify you if your Form I-130 petition is approved or denied. If it is approved and your parent is outside the United States, we will notify your parent to go to the local U.S. consulate to complete visa processing. 

If your parent is currently in the United States, your parent may be eligible to file  Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or to Adjust Status , at the same time as you file  Form I-130 . See the Concurrent Filing of Form I-485 page for more information.

For additional information, see our How Do I Guides .

Your parents do not need to apply for employment authorization (work permit) once they are admitted as an immigrant with their immigrant visa. If your parents are now outside the United States, they will receive a passport stamp upon arrival in the United States. This stamp will prove that they are allowed to work in the United States until they receive their Green Cards.

If your parents are in the United States and have applied to adjust to permanent resident status by filing Form I-485, they are eligible to apply for employment and travel authorization while their case is pending. Your parents should use  Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization  and  Form I-131, Application for Travel Document , to apply for travel authorization. 

Note: If your parents have minor children abroad, those children (your siblings) cannot be sponsored on the same petition. See the Bringing Siblings to Live in the United States as Permanent Residents page for more information. After your parent becomes a permanent resident, your parent may file a new petition for any qualifying relative. See the Family of Green Card Holders (Permanent Residents) page for more on that. 

If the visa petition you filed is denied, the denial letter will tell you how to appeal and how much time you have to file the appeal. After your appeal form and the required fee are processed, the appeal will be referred to the Board of Immigration Appeals. 

  • I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
  • I-864, Affidavit of Support Under Section 213A of the Act
  • I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
  • I-751, Petition to Remove the Conditions of Residence
  • I-824, Application for Action on an Approved Application or Petition
  • I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiance(e)
  • I-765, Application for Employment Authorization

Other USCIS Links

  • Consular Processing
  • Concurrent Filing of Form I-485 
  • Green Card (Permanent Residence)
  • Adjustment of Status

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apply for parents visit visa

  • Visas and immigration
  • Visit the UK

Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor

Apply for a standard visitor visa.

If you need a Standard Visitor visa, you must apply online before you travel to the UK and attend an appointment at a visa application centre.

The earliest you can apply is 3 months before you travel.

You must meet the eligibility requirements and only do permitted activities .

Depending on your nationality, you may not need a visa to visit the UK. You can check if you need a visa before you apply.

You can apply for a Standard Visitor visa, or if you visit the UK regularly you can choose to apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa instead.

Apply online

Once you’ve started your application you can save your form and complete it later.

If you’re applying with family members, each person must have their own application and pay the fee. They need to attend their own appointment at a visa application centre.

You can apply on behalf of your partner and child, if they cannot apply for themselves.

Your application will not be accepted and you will not get a refund if you have the right of abode in the UK (for example you’re a British citizen). You need to apply for a certificate of entitlement instead.

Continue your application

You can sign back into your application if you’ve saved it. 

Find out how to sign in to your account .

Long-term Standard Visitor visas

You can choose to apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa if you visit the UK regularly. This visa lasts 2, 5 or 10 years. You can stay for a maximum of 6 months on each visit.

If you’re under 18 years old when you apply , your long-term Standard Visitor visa will only be valid for up to 6 months after you turn 18. You cannot get a refund on the fee.

You may be given a shorter visa than requested if UK Visas and Immigration ( UKVI ) believe you cannot meet the eligibility requirements for the duration of the visa you applied for.

You will not get a refund of the application fee if you get a shorter visa or if your application is refused.

Your visa may be cancelled if your travel history shows you are repeatedly living in the UK for extended periods.

Documents and information you’ll need to apply

You must have a passport or travel document that is valid for the whole of your stay in the UK. There must be a blank page in your passport for your Standard Visitor visa.

You’ll need to provide the following information in your online application:

  • the dates you’re planning to travel to the UK
  • where you’ll be staying during your visit
  • how much you think your trip will cost
  • your current home address and how long you’ve lived there
  • your parents’ names and dates of birth (if known)
  • how much you earn in a year (if you have an income)
  • details of any criminal, civil or immigration offences you may have committed

Depending on your circumstances, you might also need to provide:

  • details of your travel history for the past 10 years
  • your employer’s address and telephone number
  • your partner’s name, date of birth and passport number
  • the name and address of anyone paying for your trip
  • the name, address and passport number of any family members you have in the UK
  • a certificate proving that you’ve had a tuberculosis ( TB ) test if you’re visiting for more than 6 months

You need to provide additional documents if you’re visiting the UK:

  • as an academic
  • for certain paid engagements or events (a ‘permitted paid engagement’
  • for medical reasons

You must provide certified translations of any documents that are not in English or Welsh.

Proving your identity and providing your documents

As part of your online application, you need to book an appointment at a visa application centre. Allow time to attend your appointment, as the visa application centre could be in another country.

At your appointment, you’ll need to:

  • prove your identity with your passport or travel document
  • have your fingerprints and photograph (known as ‘biometric information’) taken
  • provide the required documents that show you’re eligible for a Standard Visitor visa

The visa application centre may keep your passport and documents while processing your application.

How long it takes to get a decision

Once you’ve applied online, proved your identity and provided your documents, you’ll usually get a decision on your visa within 3 weeks.

You can check to see if you can get your visa decision faster .

You’ll get an email or a letter containing the decision on your application . This will explain what you need to do next.

If you need to change or cancel your application

If you need to change something in your application after you’ve sent it, contact UKVI .

You can ask to cancel your application . You’ll only get your fee refunded if the application has not been processed yet.

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COMMENTS

  1. Visitor Visa

    A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny ...

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  3. COMPLETE Guide to apply US Visitor Visa(B2) for Parents [2024]

    Basic Requirements: Passports, Funds for US Trip, Documents. 2. Employment Letter from your Company or Graduation Letter. 3. Step-by-Step Process for Parents' US Visitor Visa (B2) 4. Step 1: Complete DS-160, Book US Visa Appointment. 5. Step 2: Prepare for US Visitor Visa (B2) Interview, Documents.

  4. Guide 5256

    To apply for a super visa, you must either be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada. You cannot include your dependent children in this application. If your spouse or common-law partner want to come with you, they also need to submit an application.

  5. How Can I Bring My Parents to Visit the United States?

    Before the interview, your parents have to gather and prepare the following documents required by the U.S. Embassy or Consulate: (1) a valid passport (must be valid for at least six months beyond their period of stay in the United States); (2) non-immigrant visa application (Form DS-160) confirmation page; (3) application fee payment receipt ...

  6. How to Get a U.S. Tourist Visa for Your Parents

    Submitting the Travel Visa Application Determine Visa Eligibility. In order to help your parents apply, they must meet the eligibility requirements for a U.S. tourist visa, also known as a B-2 visa.Your parents must be able to demonstrate that they have strong ties to their home country and intend to return after their visit to the U.S. For more details on how to prove strong ties to home ...

  7. How to apply for a visitor visa

    To apply for a visitor visa to visit Canada on business, you need to qualify as a business visitor. To qualify, you must show that: you plan to stay for less than 6 months. you don't plan to enter the Canadian labour market. your main place of business and source of income and profits is outside Canada.

  8. A Step By Step Guide to US Visitor Visa

    Complete Visitor Visa Application Form DS160. A visitor visa application (Form DS160) must be completed online. You can complete the application here. After successfully completing the application, you will receive a confirmation with a 10-digit barcode. Print your confirmation page and keep record of your confirmation number.

  9. Application for a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa

    You can apply online or on paper (in specific situations) for: visitor visas (also known as temporary resident visas) super visas (for parents and grandparents) transit visas; Apply online. Before you apply, make sure you need a visa to enter Canada. Find out what document you need to enter Canada. You must have both of these to apply online:

  10. How to apply for a B2 visitor visa for parents in the U.S. [2024]

    Applying for a B-2 tourist visa for your parents to visit the United States involves several steps: 1. Completing the Visa Application. The application process starts with completing the online Form DS-160, which collects biographical information, travel plans, and other relevant details. Each parent must fill out a separate DS-160 form.

  11. Visit the U.S.

    Generally, if you want to visit (and not live in) the United States you must first obtain a visitor visa.Travelers from certain countries may be exempt from this requirement. For more information, please see the U.S. Department of State website.. If you want to travel to the United States for reasons other than business or pleasure, you must apply for a visa in the appropriate category.

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    The DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, is for temporary travel to the United States, and for K (fiancé (e)) visas. Form DS-160 is submitted electronically to the Department of State website via the Internet. Consular Officers use the information entered on the DS-160 to process the visa application and, combined with a personal ...

  13. Parent Visitor Visa to the USA

    The US Embassy & Consulates in India recently announced opening up appointments for 1st time B-1/B-2 Visitor visa appointments from 1st September 2022. Anyone, renewing their visa within 28 months of expiry will continue to be eligible for an interview waiver. Parents Visitor Visa for USA, B1/B2 Visa. Watch on.

  14. Super visa for parents and grandparents

    Parents and grandparents can visit their children or grandchildren for 5 years at a time with a super visa. It provides multiple entries for a period of up to 10 years. More people want to immigrate to Canada than we can bring in each year. Applications received after we meet our yearly limit may ...

  15. Parent and Grandparent Visitor Visa

    If you want to bring dependent children with you, they'll need to apply for their own visas. You can only apply for this visa while you're outside of New Zealand. If you are only planning to visit New Zealand once, the general Visitor Visa may suit you better. It has fewer requirements to meet. Visitor Visa.

  16. How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

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  17. Family-based immigrant visas and sponsoring a relative

    Categories of people eligible for family immigrant visas. Applying for a family-based immigrant visa is the first step in the process for the person you are sponsoring to become a permanent resident. There are two categories of this type of visa: Immediate relative visas. ... unmarried children under 21, or parents. An unlimited number of visas ...

  18. Visitor visa (subclass 600)

    The Department of Home Affairs acknowledges the Traditional Custodians of Country throughout Australia and their continuing connection to land, sea and community. We pay our respects to all Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander peoples, their cultures and to their elders past, present and emerging. For tourists, business visitors or to visit ...

  19. Bringing Parents to Live in the United States as Permanent ...

    Your parents should use Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization and Form I-131, Application for Travel Document, to apply for travel authorization. Note: If your parents have minor children abroad, those children (your siblings) cannot be sponsored on the same petition. See the Bringing Siblings to Live in the United States as ...

  20. Visit the UK as a Standard Visitor: Apply for a Standard Visitor visa

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    The first step in applying for a U.S. nonimmigrant visa is to complete your application. It takes approximately 90 minutes to do this. After you submit your application, you can move on to the next steps such as scheduling your interview. Types of Visas.

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    Once a sponsorship application is approved, a sponsored parent is able to apply for a Sponsored Parent (Temporary) visa. Applications for the visa opened on 1 July 2019. The visa provides parents with a new pathway to temporarily reunite with their children in Australia, while ensuring that taxpayers are not required to cover additional costs.

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    When you apply for an Australian Parent visa there are certain criteria that need to be met. All visa applicants need to meet the health and good character requirements, but Parent visa applicants also need to meet the balance of family test, have a sponsor and meet the Assurance of Support requirement. ... For all parent visas, except the ...

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