One of the most frequently asked questions among internationals living in the US, either during their graduation time, after they start working, or if they are expecting a baby, is: “What is the process to apply for a visitor or tourist visa (B2 visa) for their parents to come to the USA? What documents do they need? How do they start the B2 visa process for their parents ?”
The article below covers the step-by-step process for parents or family members applying for a B2 visitor visa, 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 your parents’ passports and the funds required for their travel to the US.
Getting Parents’ Passports
- The first step before you plan the US Tourist B2 Visa is to apply for a passport for your parents, if they do not have one.
- Depending on the country your parents reside, 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.
- For example, if you are from India, in the past, it used to take 3 to 6 months; now, with outsourcing to companies like TCS, you can get a new passport in a little under 15 days. Also, there are new schemes, such as Tatkaal, where you can get it in less than a week. If it is an emergency, you can get your passport within seven days, but you must pay an extra fee for Tatkaal.
- 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.
Funds for your parents’ US Trip: Bank Savings for Sponsorship
- If you are paying for your parents’ trip, you need to have enough funds secured.
- There is no official guidance from the US Department of State on how much money you need to have in the bank account. 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 12,000 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 at least few 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 in the US either as an employee working in the US or a student studying in the US.
Below are the two common scenarios when applying for B2 visitor visa:
Working in the US(H1B, L1, OPT, Green Card): Employment Letter
If you are working in the US on a work visa, you need to get an employment letter from your current company verifying that you are working in the US on an H1B, L1, or other visa, including Green Card, OPT or STEM OPT. This is to ensure you are in good standing in the US and are getting paid to support your parents’ travel.
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.
The graduation invitation letter would act as the official invite for them to visit the US. Also, the documents from the school will help the consular officer verify that you are about to graduate and have maintained proper status.
Step-by-Step Process for Parents’ US Visitor Visa (B2)
Below are the various steps 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 scanned copies of your parents’ passports, their education, and employment-related documents before you start the process to avoid issues. Sometimes, your employer may also ask for the same documentation before issuing the employment letter.
Complete Form DS-160 Online for Parents
Unless your parents are well educated and have access to 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 filled it out for them and then declared 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 the option “Create a Family Application” 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 before submission.
- Required info to Fill out the 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 Form DS-160, Declaration: If you are filling out forms on behalf of your parents, at the end of the completion of the form DS-160, 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. You may read the below links for any questions on form DS-160.
- 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, the next step is to pay the visa appointment fee and book the slot for the visa interview.
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.
- Parents US Visa Interview Language – Mother tongue vs English: If your parents are not comfortable with English, you should choose their preferred mother tongue or native language. Most of the US embassies around the world give you the option to choose the local language.
- 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.
- Scheduling US Visa Interview: The US Visa interview appointment booking is handled by www.ustraveldocs.com website in most countries. Depending on your country, click on the country and choose the relevant website, where you will get the actual website that is used for booking the appointment. For instance, to book a visa appointment in India, you need to use the website USVisaScheduling.com.
- 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 invitation letters, sponsorship letters, and other info. Let’s look at each of them.
Funds Proof – Bank Account Balance Letter, Sample
If you are sponsoring your parent’s 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 recommended 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 with 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 parent’s 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 anywhere around $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
- Passport
- 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 your in-laws like mother-in-law or father-in-law, in addition to the above checklist of documents, you need to include your 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 a 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 his 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 is 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 and any financial-related documents.
- If there are Tax returns, then carry them as well
- Any other documents that show you are financially strong and you will come back.
If you do not have all the 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 flavor 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 ones listed 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 the 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.
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.
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 2026, 2027 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.
For my parents visa, I have selected B1/B2 instead of B2 in d160 form. Please confirm if this can cause any issue in visa approval?
do I need to submit new D160 from with type as B2?
Does anyone have a checklist of docs if parents are sponsoring the trip on their own? My mom is homemaker, she will be traveling alone and most property docs are under dad’s name:
would these docs be enough if they are self sponsoring. :
My docs: visa copy, passport copy, i797 of my spouse, i539
My mom: (Indian docs) Property doc, her marriage certificate, tax filing letter, Fixed deposit with over 15lakhs, bank statement last 6 months.
Ash k,
There is no special checklist if parents are sponsoring their trip. All they need to ensure is that they have enough money in the bank that they can spend.
Yes, they should be fine.
For my parents visa, I have selected B1/B2 instead of B2 in d160 form. Please confirm if this can cause any issue in visa approval?
do I need to submit new D160 from with type as B2?
Hi,
My parents will be visiting USA for the first time. They have visitor visa approved.
I want to know what are the important things to be taken care of like visitor insurance, which insurance is best.
Sadhana,
Most important thing is the health insurance and any health related aspects. Usually buying a travel insurance from a US provider is better. See the article above, it has a section. What is best is relative as there are many caveats like pre-exisiting conditions, etc. You can check Visitors Coverage for comparisons and plans.
Hi,
I created DS-160 for my parents last year in which my USA address A is now changed to address B similarly my parents India address as well got changed as we both got relocated.
Should I need to create new DS-160 with the updated address? Please advise.
They have appointment scheduled next month.
Thank you!
Vijay,
Yes, it is suggested to fill out an updated DS-160 to ensure the data you submitted is accurate. There is no harm in filling out any number of DS-160 forms.
I had submitted DS-160 for my parents in Feb 2023 chosing Kolkata as the location. We have now got a slot this month at Chennai. Should I submit new DS-160 for my parents ?
Inder,
Usually, if nothing has changed in the details, you maybe able to use it. If any details have changed, you should create a new DS-160.
Do we need to carry photos for B2 visa appointments ?
Ravi,
Unless, it is dropbox, you do not need to. They take the photos during the biometrics day.
This information is very useful.
Cheers!
For B2 visa for parent in laws do i need to print out everything and sign all the documents and sent to home country ? or only some of the documents like invite letter need to be sign and send to home country?
PRAVEEN,
Frankly, there is nothing that says it is mandatory to sign and send. If you can send scan copies also it works. If you can, you can even send the original copies with wet ink signed.
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.
Kumar,
My parents are planning for renewal as well, can you please share the list of documents needed for the drop off?
Related question:
What option did you selected for this question “Person / Entity paying for your Trip” in a DS-160 as SELF? If other options selected, what additional documents needed for drop off. Please advise.
Thanks in Advance.
Sandeep,
It will be standard documents that you see above. Check the Appointment letter, it will have the list. They may not take a whole lot of the documents as it is renewal.
If others are paying, the paying person’s salary slips, bank statements, etc.
Hello Mahi,
How did your B1\B2 Visa Renewal for parents did go? Can you please help me with below questions.
1. Please share the list of documents needed for the drop off
2. What option did you selected for this question “Person / Entity paying for your Trip” in a DS-160 as SELF? If other options selected, what additional documents needed for drop off. Please advise.
Note: Both of my parents are retired.
Thanks in Advance.
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!
Hi,
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?
Hi,
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?
Thanks,
Sagar
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.
Hello,
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.
Hi,
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.
Hi,
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
thank you
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.
Thanks.
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.
Thanks.
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.
Thank you
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!
Hi,
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.
Hi Kumar,
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.