us visit visa for parents

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.

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 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

1,789 comments.

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

If you visit the U.S. for tourism or business, you may need a visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa. Learn how to get and renew this type of nonimmigrant visa.

To enter the U.S., you must bring a passport issued by your country of citizenship along with your visa. Officials at your port of entry into the U.S. will also issue you a Form I-94, which electronically records your arrival and departure dates. Learn more about Form I-94 and how to apply .

Find out if you need a visa to visit the U.S.

Check to see if your country participates in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP) . If it does, you can get a waiver and will not need a visa. If you do not see your country listed, you will need a visitor visa.

Visitor (tourist) visa

The visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa, is a type of nonimmigrant visa for people who wish to temporarily enter the U.S. There are two categories:

• B-1 for business travel
• B-2 for tourism and medical treatment

Learn about B-1 and B-2 visas , including:

• Reasons you would need each type of visitor visa
• How to apply
• What documents you will need
• Application fees
• How to prepare for your interview at your U.S. embassy or consulate

How to renew a visitor visa

You must renew your visitor visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. Only diplomatic visa holders and their dependents can renew their visas within the U.S.

The process to renew a visitor visa is the same as getting one for the first time. Follow the process to apply for a visitor visa from the Department of State.

Find the contact information for your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and contact them for visa renewal information.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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

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] .

Article Information

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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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.

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.

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

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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The IR-5 Visa, Explained

Understanding the ir5 visa for parents of u.s. citizens, in this guide.

• IR-5 Visa Eligibility
• Special Requirements
• Related Information

Green Card (Parent)

What is the IR-5 visa?

The IR-5 visa allows the parent or parents of a U.S. citizen to lawfully live and work in the United States. Need more answers on cost, wait time, and required documents? Learn more about how Boundless can help.

Is the IR-5 right for me?

If you are a U.S citizen and have a parent or parents that are not, you might be looking to bring them over to live with you in the United States. This move could be for many reasons including greater proximity to family, better healthcare, or an increased standard of living.

The IR5 parent visa allows U.S. citizens to bring foreign-born parents to the United States as permanent residents . However, this visa will have to be granted abroad and issued at the U.S. embassy or consulate in the foreign country where the parent resides. You must also be at least age 21 to sponsor the IR-5 visa for a parent.

In this guide you’ll learn about the steps to getting an IR-5 visa as well as special requirements and common questions.

Boundless has helped more than 100,000 people reach their immigration goals. We’ll be your visa planning partner from beginning to end. Get started today!

Start planning your immigration journey today with Boundless.

Eligibility for an IR-5 visa depends on the following factors:

• The U.S. citizen sponsor must be age 21 or older.
• The sponsor must have the financial means to support the parent until they start working.
• The sponsor must live in the United States and have a U.S. address.
• The sponsor must include a copy of their birth certificate to prove the relationship between the sponsor and parent.

Establishing the parent-child relationship

All IR (“Immediate Relative”) visa categories have no yearly caps , meaning there is no wait until a green card becomes available.

The first step to becoming a U.S. permanent resident is for the sponsor to file Form I-130 (officially called the “Petition for an Alien Relative”) to establish the parent-child relationship.

The process is a little different depending on where the parent lives. If they are filing from outside the United States, their application will go through consular processing , which means it will be handled by their local embassy or consulate. If they are filing from within the United States, they will go through a process known as adjustment of status .

Establishing the parent’s eligibility for a green card

The U.S. government follows two different processes to determine a parent’s eligibility for green card, depending on where the parent currently lives:

If the parent is applying from outside the United States

After Form I-130 has been filed by the sponsoring child, it is processed by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). When the petition is granted, the parent will be required to fill out Form DS-260 (immigrant visa application) and submit proof that they are the parent.

Once the DS-260 form is submitted, it is sent along with supporting evidence to the National Visa Center (NVC), which processes and reviews the visa application. The NVC may request additional evidence from the parent.

After the NVC processes the application, it will be sent to the embassy or consulate of the country where your parent resides.

If the parent is applying from within the United States

To apply using adjustment of status, the parent seeking a green card must have entered the United States on a valid visa or the Visa Waiver Program .

After the sponsoring child files Form I-130 and USCIS grants their petition, the parent will submit Form I-485 (officially called the “Application for Adjustment of Status”).

After receiving Form I-485, USCIS will mail a date, time, and location for the parent to have their fingerprints taken and eye scanned (known as a biometrics appointment ).

Attending the green card interview and awaiting approval

The parent will be required to attend an interview at a U.S.consulate or embassy if going through consular processing, and may be required to attend an interview if using adjustment of status.

They will be required to attend an interview in the city or country they live in, and will need to bring:

• Their USCIS appointment letter.
• An unexpired passport valid for six months beyond the intended date of entry into the United States, if they applied using consular processing
• Two identical color photograph(s)
• English translations of documents requiring translation
• Supporting documents — original or certified copies of all civil documents the parent uploaded into the Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC), if they applied using consular processing

The parent will then be asked questions about their relationship to the sponsoring child, in order to verify that their visa application is genuine. If the interview is successful, the visa will be granted, and the parent will be able to immigrate to the United States.

Once the parent is in the United States, USCIS will mail their green card to their U.S. address.

Boundless can help you avoid common pitfalls in the immigration process with unlimited support from our team of immigration experts. Learn more.

The IR5 visa has different requirements for supporting evidence depending on the parent and the circumstances of the sponsor’s birth, that is, whether it occurred when the parents were married (“in wedlock”) or not married (“out of wedlock”).

If the mother is applying from outside the United States, the sponsoring child must submit:

• A copy of their birth certificate showing their name and their mother’s name.
• A copy of their Certificate of Naturalization or U.S. passport if they were not born in the United States.

If the father is applying from outside the United States, the sponsoring child must submit:

• A copy of their birth certificate showing their name and the names of both parents.
• A copy of their parents’ civil marriage certificate.

If the father lives outside the United States and the sponsoring child was born out of wedlock and was not legitimated (legally recognized) by their father before their 18th birthday:

• A copy of their birth certificate showing their name and their father’s name.
• Evidence that an emotional or financial bond existed between the sponsoring child and their father before the child was married or reached age 21 (whichever came first).

If the father lives outside the United States and the sponsoring child was born out of wedlock and was legitimated by their father before their 18th birthday:

• Evidence that the sponsoring child was legitimated before their 18th birthday through the marriage of their natural parents, the laws of their birth state or country, or the laws of their father’s birth state or country.

If the sponsoring child petitions to bring a stepparent to the United States, they must submit:

• A copy of their birth certificate showing the names of their birth parents.
• A copy of the civil marriage certificate of the birth parent to the stepparent showing that the marriage occurred before the sponsoring child’s 18th birthday.
• A copy of any divorce decrees, death certificates, or annulment decrees to show that any previous marriage entered into by the sponsoring child’s natural or stepparent ended legally.

If the sponsoring child petitions to bring their adoptive parents to the United States, they must submit:

• A copy of their birth certificate
• A certified copy of the adoption certificate showing that the adoption took place before the sponsoring child’s 16th birthday.
• A statement showing the dates and places the sponsoring child has lived together with their parents.

Common questions

After five years of having a green card, the sponsoring child’s parent will be eligible to apply for U.S. citizenship .

No. The sponsoring child needs to wait until after their 21st birthday to sponsor any parent.

No. An important thing to note is that if the sponsor’s parents have minor children abroad, they will not be able to be sponsored on the same petition. Instead, they will have to be petitioned for separately by the sponsor, as a U.S. citizen, or by the parents when they become green card holders.

Immigration guides

• What Are Forms DS-260 and DS-261?
• A Complete Guide to Consular Processing
• Preparing for the Medical Exam
• How to Apply for an IR-2 Child Visa
• Getting a Tourist Visa for Parents
• Tourist Visa Denial: What to Do

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Article Contents

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Complete Guide To Parent Visitor Visa For The USA

We answer your basic questions about applying for a Visitor Visa for your parents in their home country if you want your parents to visit you in the US.

Visa processing center/US consulate backlogs are prolonging the visa application process. India, which receives many visa applications, has been severely affected.

Post the pandemic, Since September 1, 2022, the US Embassy and Consulates in India have been accepting first-time B-1/B-2 visitor visa appointments.

Visa renewals within 28 months of their expiry are eligible for an interview waiver. You must apply for a Visitor Visa early for your parents if this would be their first time getting a US Visa.

The US Visitor Visa application process can be done without a lawyer. Get legal help for services if you’re short on time.

Table of Contents

What Is A US Visitor Visa For Parents?

The B1 B2 Visa is popularly known as the Visitor Visa OR the Tourist Visa. Non-immigrant visas or visitor visas allow temporary entry for:

B-1 – Business Visa under the category of non-immigrant visas

B-2 – Tourism Visa under the category of non-immigrant visas

A visa under the B1 B2 category is generally issued for a period of 10 years validity and is a multiple entry visa. There are stipulations for its usage and travel to the USA. There are several other visas in the non-immigrant visa category.

Parent Visitor Visa: B-1 B-2 Visa

Parents wanting to visit the United States temporarily to meet their children and family members can apply for a b1 b2 visa aka a Visitor Visa

Business travelers who want to travel to the USA for business meetings, to meet business associates, or to attend a business convention also need to apply for a b1 b2 visa. Even tourists can apply for this visitor visa category.

Apply for a B-1/B-2 visa for parents

Permitted Activities And Visa Status

There are many US Visa Types , and permitted activities under each visa category.

For parents’ visa type for visiting the USA is concerned the Visitor Visa and activities allowed under them are:

Business Visa – B1 Visa:

• Business meetings
• Consulting with business partners
• Attending conventions
• Attending conferences
• Contract negotiations

Tourist Visa – B2 Visa:

• Holiday, vacation, tourism
• Visiting family members
• Receiving medical treatment
• Participating in social events hosted by social, service, or fraternal organizations
• Participation in musical, sporting, or similar events or contests as an amateur receiving no payments for such participation
• Enrolling in a brief recreational course of study that is not for credit toward a degree

Documents Required To Start A Visitor Visa Application Process

In order to submit an application for a B1/B2 visa, you must first gather all the documents required to be submitted along with the visitor visa application. This will help you in the Visitor Visa Application Process

Passport Valid

A valid passport for 6 months beyond the planned period of stay in the USA. If the passport of your parent is nearing the end of its validity, it would be advisable to first renew their passport and then start the visitor visa application process.

Financial Documents

All the documents needed to provide and show proof of sound financial standing like bank account details, a bank statement & other financial-related documents. Availability of funds in the bank to show that all costs for the planned trip can be undertaken sufficiently. The funds available in the bank account should be >= $5,000 -10,000 or more. A bank letter /bank statement can be proof.

Other Documents

To support the application further documents can be included. Additional documents like

• Real estate/property ownership documents and
• Other relevant papers/documents

To demonstrate ties to the home country. Address proof for your permanent residence.

Other documents that may be required can be an invitation letter, an employment verification letter if any of the parents are employed, and a confirmation stating that their leave is granted for the trip.

Evaluate your parents’ circumstances and situation and collect documents accordingly. You can support their application with an invitation letter from you to them.

Get the details on how to write a letter to a consulate for a visitor visa .

What Are The Requirements For A Visitor Visa?

The eligibility requirements for a b1 b2 visa include a planned trip to the United States for eligible activities permitted under the US visitor visa:

• Vacation or tourism
• Visit children, family, friends, or relatives
• Social engagement like attending social gatherings that various organizations host
• To get medical treatment or medical care
• Participate in music or sports-related events or competitions (non-paid as an amateur)
• Attend a short recreational course like a two-day cooking class

Other requirements are documents for the visa category you are applying for. Displaying financial stability and access to funds in your bank account that will fund the trip.

Strong ties to your home country ensure you will leave the USA once your trip ends.

If your parents visit you in the United States temporarily on a b1 b2 visa but need to extend their stay beyond the time that they were approved for, it is extremely critical that you file an extension of stay application.

How Can I obtain A US tourist visa?

Follow these basic steps to apply for a US tourist visa OR the Visitor Visa:

• DS-160 Form , complete and submit the online application
• Visa Fees, pay the visa fees and save the application fee payment receipt
• Schedule your Visa interview, interview appointments vary
• Create a file for your B2 Visa documents
• Attend the interview with a consular officer

Note that if your parents are eligible for visa interview waiver then you can submit the application documents at a drop-box location. A visa officer may approve and grant you a visitor visa, and your entry into the United States is ultimately approved by border protection officers at the port of entry by Homeland Security and US Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Apply for a visitor visa for parents

Start The Application Process By Submitting Form DS-160

Form Ds-160 is required for your parents’ visas. The DS-160 form is mandatory for all non-immigrant visa types. The DS-160 form is available online, provide contact information as well as information on why you are visiting.

Once the form DS-160 is submitted, You will receive a verification confirmation page and code, keep it for your document file, you will need it.

Pay Fees For The Visa

Pay the applicable visa fees known as visa issuance fees, and they differ from one nation to the other.

Once the visa fee payment is done you will receive an application fee payment receipt. You will need this to proceed further with the application.

Organize all required documentation in a file that can be taken for the visitor visa interview.

Scheduling Visitor Visa Interview

Visa applicants between the ages of 14 to 79 must attend a visa interview at the US Embassy. Considering delays and extremely high volumes of applications in some countries, start the process early for applying for a visitor visa.

Make an appointment with the US Embassy in your home country for your parents, to attend the visa interview. An interview in the local language may be available if your parents are not comfortable with English.

You will receive an interview confirmation letter when you make an appointment. The visa applicant must carry this interview confirmation letter to the interview.

Organize B1/B2 Visa Documents

Having all the documents in one place will help during the interview. It will also help to avoid last-minute hassles in finding documents. The visa interview only lasts a few minutes in most cases and having documents handy to provide to the consular officer if asked,

Keep all the additional supporting documents in the file and carry the file for your visa appointment, all required paperwork must be brought with you to avoid any disappointments.

Documents to Submit

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

• Valid passport
• A passport-size photo complying with the specifications
• Form DS-160 confirmation page with the code
• Visa fees paid receipt
• Visa interview confirmation page
• A travel itinerary
• Proof of financial availability to fund the trip, bank statement
• An employment verification letter from your employer
• 3 months’ pay stubs/salary slips for those who are employed
• Income Tax Returns
• Ties to your home country or country of residence
• Invitation letter (optional) from US-based family or friends
• 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 with the account name
• The records of your previous trips. This only applies if you’ve previously traveled to the US

Please note that this is not an exhaustive list for parent visitor visas, documents and paperwork may depend on a case-to-case basis.

Visa Interview Date

Attend the visa interview and be on time or early, to avoid any chance of getting late for your appointment.

A consular officer will interview you and ask the reasons you wish to visit the USA.

Frivolous responses ensure that the visa officer rejects the visa, it would be advisable to prepare for the visa interview questions and go prepared for the interview.

Although the interviews are short and kept brief, it is extremely important to provide all important and relevant information.

The consular officer will examine your papers to make sure everything is in order.

The visa officer is highly trained and deals with applications daily, if you do not understand a question do not hesitate and request the visa officer to repeat the question rather than trying to answer without understanding what is asked. Being clear and specific will help.

The visa officer or consular officer decides to approve or reject a visa application on the merits of the case the usual decisions are: 1. visa approval 2. denial or 3. needs more information. If the visa is approved then the passport will be mailed back with the visa stamped on the passport.

Note: For those who don’t speak English or are not comfortable communicating in English, a local language interview appointment option is usually available.

Important Links

Check out these useful links:

US State Government Website

US Travel Document Official Website

Complete the DS-160 form for a parent visitor visa

If your parents are planning to visit you in the U.S. Consider getting travel medical insurance for them

FAQs – Frequently Asked Questions

Can i visit the united states without a visa.

You need a Tourist Visa (Visitor Visa) to visit the United States. The only exception is people from countries that are part of the US Visa Waiver Program .

You must apply for a tourist visa/visitor visa/b1-b2 visa to visit the USA if you are a citizen of a country that is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program.

What is the time frame for obtaining a B1/B2 Visa?

The processing of the B1/B2 visitor visa could take a few weeks to a few months, depending on the country you are applying in. Check with the local US Embassy in your country for the current timelines.

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

A B1 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 consider filing for a stay extension before their approved stay expires.

Hope that you now have enough information to help you through the entire process for a B1/B2 Visa.

This is the most commonly issued visa do bear in mind that many parents have had their visas rejected due to lack of preparation and the application being satisfactory.

In some cases, the visa is approved for one parent but rejected for the other, especially when the appointments are scheduled on different dates for each parent.

Those who are Well-traveled internationally may not need hand-holding but parents who have not traveled internationally may need help.

We hope your parents are granted a visa and they visit you soon. Apply for a visitor visa for parents .

If you are considering Travel Insurance for Parents Visiting the USA, Compare Travel Insurance Plans .

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Family Immigration

Family Based Immigration

A foreign citizen seeking to live permanently in the United States requires an immigrant visa (IV). To be eligible to apply for an IV, a foreign citizen must be sponsored by an immediate relative who is at least 21 years of age and is either a U.S. citizen or U.S. Lawful Permanent Resident (that is, a green-card holder).

There are two types of family-based immigrant visas:

Immediate Relative – these visas are based on a close family relationship with a U.S. citizen, such as a spouse, child or parent. The number of immigrants in these categories is not limited each fiscal year.

Family Preference – these visas are for specific, more distant, family relationships with a U.S. citizen and some specified relationships with a Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR). The number of immigrants in these categories is limited each fiscal year. 

Keep in mind that U.S. citizens can file an immigrant visa petition for their:

• Spouse • Son or daughter • Parent • Brother or sister

U.S. Lawful Permanent Residents can only file an immigrant visa petition for their:

• Spouse • Unmarried son or daughter

More Information

Visa News   Laws and Regulations A-Z Index

Who's Involved

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS):  USCIS oversees immigration to the United States and approves (or denies) immigrant petitions, and more.  Learn about USCIS

National Visa Center:  After your petition is approved, the National Visa Center (NVC) will assist you in preparing your visa application for interview for certain visa categories at U.S. Embassies & Consulates.  When and how to Contact NVC .

U.S. Embassies and Consulates:  Find a  U.S. Embassy or Consulate , nearest your residence abroad, where you will apply and be interviewed for your U.S. visa.

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Travel Insurance for Parents Visiting the USA from India

P lanning a visit to the USA for your parents can be an exciting and memorable experience. However, amidst all the preparations, one aspect that often gets overlooked is purchasing travel insurance. It is essential to ensure that your parents are adequately covered during their stay in the USA. In this blog, we will address some common doubts regarding travel insurance for parents visiting the USA from India and help you make an informed decision.

Why do you need travel insurance for your parents visiting the USA?

Travel insurance for parents visiting the USA is crucial for several reasons:

• Medical Emergencies: The United States has high healthcare costs, and unexpected medical emergencies can lead to significant expenses. Travel insurance can cover medical expenses, ensuring your parents receive the necessary care without financial burden.
• Trip Cancellation: In case your parents' trip gets canceled due to unforeseen circumstances, such as a family emergency, travel insurance can provide reimbursement for non-refundable expenses like flights and accommodations.
• Lost Luggage: Travel insurance can compensate for lost or delayed luggage, making sure your parents have the essentials they need during their stay.
• Travel Delays: If your parents experience flight delays or missed connections, travel insurance can cover additional expenses like accommodation and meals.
• Emergency Evacuation: In the rare event of a medical emergency requiring evacuation, travel insurance can assist with the associated costs.

Should I Buy Travel Insurance from India or the US?

While it is possible to purchase travel insurance from India, we recommend opting for coverage from the USA. Here is why:

• PPO Network: Many US-based insurance plans offer access to a Preferred Provider Organization (PPO) network. This means your parents can receive medical care at lower rates from a network of healthcare providers, ensuring cost-effective treatment.
• Local Understanding: US-based insurers often have a better understanding of the American healthcare system, making claims and assistance more efficient.
• Visa Requirement: Some US visas, like the J-1 and J-2 visas, may require insurance coverage that complies with specific regulations. Purchasing insurance from the USA helps ensure compliance with visa requirements.

What is the difference between Indian insurance and US insurance?

The primary differences between Indian and US travel insurance for parents visiting the USA are:

Indian Insurance:

• Limited Network: Indian insurance plans may have a limited network of healthcare providers in the USA, potentially resulting in higher out-of-pocket costs.
• Understanding of US Healthcare: Indian insurers may not fully understand the US healthcare system, leading to potential difficulties when seeking medical care.
• Visa Compliance: Some Indian insurance plans may not meet the specific coverage requirements of certain US visas, potentially jeopardizing visa approval.

USA Insurance:

• Network Coverage: US insurance plans often provide access to a wider PPO network, ensuring better healthcare options.
• Understanding of US Healthcare System: US insurers have a better understanding of the American healthcare system, making it easier to navigate.
• Visa Compliance: Some US visas require insurance coverage that meets specific criteria, which is more easily achieved with US-based insurance.

Which travel insurance is best for Indian parents in the USA?

When selecting travel insurance for your parents visiting the USA, consider plans from Visitor Guard® , a reputable provider who has over 20 years of experience in the visitor insurance sector and has helped tens of thousands of travelers who visited the USA. They are also known for their comprehensive coverage and reasonable rates. Here are some recommendations:

Comprehensive Coverage Plans:

• SAFE TRAVEL USA COMPREHENSIVE: This plan offers comprehensive coverage, including medical expenses, trip cancellation, baggage loss, and more. This plan also includes coverage for one episode of an acute onset of a pre-existing condition making it a popular choice for parents visiting the USA from India. It provides peace of mind for your parents during their stay in the USA.
• PATRIOT AMERICA PLUS: Patriot America Plus is a well-regarded insurance plan with comprehensive coverage. It includes medical benefits, emergency medical evacuation, and more. It is a suitable choice for parents looking for extensive coverage.
• ATLAS AMERICA: Atlas America is another robust comprehensive plan. It covers medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, and other travel-related contingencies. It is a popular choice among visitors to the USA.

Before making a final decision, it is crucial to compare these plans in detail, considering factors like coverage limits, deductibles, network providers, and any specific requirements your parents may have. Additionally, make sure to read the policy documents thoroughly to understand the terms and conditions.

What does travel insurance for parents visiting the USA include?

• Travel Medical Insurance: This forms the cornerstone of the coverage, given the exorbitant healthcare costs in the United States. It encompasses a wide range of medical expenses, including emergency room visits, physician consultations, prescription medications, surgical procedures, diagnostic tests such as X-rays and laboratory work, , and even physical therapy.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Many travel insurance plans now incorporate coverage for expenses related to COVID-19, spanning testing and treatment. Moreover, some policies may extend to cover quarantine-related costs, a particularly relevant inclusion in the current pandemic landscape.
• Emergency Medical Evacuation: This provision accounts for the expenses associated with transporting your parents to the nearest suitable medical facility should a severe illness or injury occur. Additionally, it may also cover the cost of repatriation to their temporary U.S. residence or their home country post-treatment.
• Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions: While conventional wisdom might exclude pre-existing conditions, certain policies may offer coverage for acute onsets of such conditions, though it is essential to scrutinize the fine print for specifics. Age-related limitations and condition-specific considerations may apply.
• Trip Interruption: Some travel insurance plans incorporate conventional elements of travel insurance, encompassing interruption coverage. This aspect serves to reimburse a one-way ticket to the home country should your parents need to truncate their trip due to covered reasons.
• Travel Delay: Coverage for travel delays caused by circumstances such as flight cancellations or unforeseen events may also be part of the package. This coverage assists in mitigating the additional expenses incurred during prolonged delays.
• Loss, Theft, or Damage to Personal Belongings: While the primary focus lies on medical coverage, certain policies may extend limited coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged personal belongings, encompassing luggage and valuable items.

In conclusion, travel insurance is a must-have for parents visiting the USA from India. It provides peace of mind, financial security, and access to quality healthcare during their stay. When choosing insurance, consider opting for US-based plans like those from Visitor Guard® to ensure comprehensive coverage and compliance with visa requirements. Your parents' safety and well-being should always be a top priority when planning their visit to the USA.

Disclaimer: This article is a paid publication and does not have journalistic/editorial involvement of Hindustan Times. Hindustan Times does not endorse/subscribe to the content(s) of the article/advertisement and/or view(s) expressed herein. Hindustan Times shall not in any manner, be responsible and/or liable in any manner whatsoever for all that is stated in the article and/or also with regard to the view(s), opinion(s), announcement(s), declaration(s), affirmation(s) etc., stated/featured in the same.

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Notice of FY 2025 H-1B Cap Initial Registration Selection Process Completion and Cap Season Reminders

H-1B Initial Electronic Registration Selection Process Completed

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has received enough electronic registrations for unique beneficiaries during the initial registration period to reach the fiscal year (FY) 2025 H-1B numerical allocations (H-1B cap), including the advanced degree exemption (master’s cap). We have randomly selected enough properly submitted registrations for unique beneficiaries projected as needed to reach the H-1B cap and have notified all prospective petitioners with selected beneficiaries that they are eligible to file an H-1B cap-subject petition for such beneficiaries.

Registrants’ online accounts will now show one of the following statuses for each registration (that is, for each beneficiary registered):

• Submitted:  The registration has been submitted and is eligible for selection. If the initial selection process has been completed, this registration remains eligible, unless subsequently invalidated, for selection in any subsequent selections for the fiscal year for which it was submitted.
• Selected:  Selected to file an H-1B cap petition.
• Not Selected: Not eligible to file an H-1B cap petition based on this registration.
• Denied – duplicate registration:  Multiple registrations were submitted by or on behalf of the same registrant for the same beneficiary. If denied as a duplicate registration, all registrations submitted by or on behalf of the same registrant for this beneficiary for the fiscal year are invalid.
• Invalidated – failed payment: A registration was submitted but the payment method was declined, not reconciled, or otherwise invalid.
• Deleted: The submitted registration has been deleted and is no longer eligible for selection.
• Processing submission:  USCIS is processing your submission. It may take up to 72 hours for all of your case information to show on the case details page. While it is processing, you will be unable to access your draft.

For more information, visit the  H-1B Electronic Registration Process  page.

FY 2025 H-1B Cap Petitions May Be Filed Starting April 1

H-1B cap-subject petitions for FY 2025, including those petitions eligible for the advanced degree exemption, may be filed with USCIS beginning April 1, 2024, if filed for a selected beneficiary and based on a valid registration.

Only petitioners with registrations for selected beneficiaries may file H-1B cap-subject petitions for FY 2025.

An H-1B cap-subject petition must be properly filed at the correct  filing location (see H-1B Form I-129 Filing Location Change to Lockbox section below)   or online at  my.uscis.gov and within the filing period indicated on the relevant selection notice. The period for filing the H-1B cap-subject petition will be at least 90 days. Petitioners must include a copy of the applicable selection notice with the FY 2025 H-1B cap-subject petition.

Petitioners must also submit evidence of the beneficiary’s valid passport or travel document used at the time of registration to identify the beneficiary.

Petitioners filing for selected beneficiaries based on their valid registration must still submit evidence or otherwise establish eligibility for petition approval, as registration and selection only pertains to eligibility to file the H-1B cap-subject petition.

For more information, visit the  H-1B Cap Season  page.

New Fees and Form Edition

On Jan. 31, 2024, USCIS published a  final rule   that adjusts the fees required for most immigration applications and petitions. The new fees are effective April 1, 2024. Petitions postmarked on or after April 1, 2024 , must include the new fees or we will not accept them. Additionally, there will be a new 04/01/24 edition of  Form I-129, Petition for a Nonimmigrant Worker . There will be  no grace period  for filing the new version of Form I-129 because it must include the new fee calculation.

What to Know About Sending Us Your Form I-129.

• We will accept the 05/31/23 edition of this form if it is postmarked  before  April 1, 2024;
• We will not accept the 05/31/23 edition of this form if it is postmarked  on  or  after  April 1, 2024; and
• We will only accept the 04/01/24 edition of this form if it is postmarked  on  or  after  April 1, 2024.

We will use the  postmark date  of a filing to determine which form version and fees are correct but will use the  received date  for purposes of any regulatory or statutory filing deadlines.

As a reminder, we recently  announced  a  final premium processing fee rule  that increased the filing fee for  Form I-907, Request for Premium Processing Service , to adjust for inflation, effective Feb. 26, 2024. If we receive a Form I-907 postmarked on or after Feb. 26, 2024, with the incorrect filing fee, we will reject the Form I-907 and return the filing fee. For filings sent by commercial courier (such as UPS, FedEx, and DHL), the postmark date is the date on the courier receipt.

Online Filing and Organizational Accounts

On Feb. 28, 2024, we launched new online organizational accounts that allow multiple people within an organization and their legal representatives to collaborate on and prepare H-1B registrations, H-1B petitions, and any associated Form I-907. Information on organizational accounts is available on the  Organizational Accounts Frequently Asked Questions page.

We also launched online filing of Form I-129 and associated Form I-907 for non-cap H-1B petitions on March 25. On April 1, we will begin accepting online filing for H-1B cap petitions and associated Forms I-907 for petitioners whose registrations have been selected.

Petitioners will continue to have the option of filing a paper Form I-129 H-1B petition and any associated Form I-907 if they prefer. However, during the initial launch of organizational accounts, users will not be able to link paper-filed Forms I-129 and I-907 to their online accounts.

H-1B Form I-129 Filing Location Change to Lockbox

Starting April 1, 2024, H-1B and H-1B1 (HSC) Form I-129 petitions are no longer filed directly with the USCIS service centers. All paper-based H-1B and H-1B1 (HSC) Form I-129 petitions are now filed at USCIS lockbox locations. This includes cap, non-cap, and cap-exempt H-1B filings.

We will reject H-1B or H-1B1 (HSC) petitions received at a USCIS service center on or after April 1, 2024. There will be  no grace period  provided.

USCIS has specific mailing addresses for cases that are subject to the H-1B cap. To determine the correct mailing address, please see our  Form I-129 Direct Filing Addresses  page.

If a petition is filed at the wrong location, we may reject the petition. Rejected petitions will not retain a filing date. If we reject a petition because it was filed at the wrong location, it may be refiled at the correct location, or online. H-1B cap subject petitions may be refiled at the correct location, or online, as long as the petition is refiled during the designated 90-day filing window listed on the selection notice.

No More Pre-paid Mailers

As of March 25, 2024, we are no longer using prepaid mailers to send out any communication or final notices for any H-1B or H-1B1 (HSC) petitions. With H-1B intake now occurring at the lockbox or online, we will not be able to use any prepaid mailers for H-1B or H-1B1 (HSC) filings.

The process of printing and mailing H-1B petition approval notices by first-class mail is fully automated. For petitions filed online, myUSCIS account holders will also receive an email or text message notification in their myUSCIS account when there is a case status change on a case in their account, followed by a paper notice by mail.

Receipt Notice Delays

When we receive a timely and properly filed H-1B cap subject petition, the petitioner (and, if applicable, the petitioner’s legal representative) will be provided a Form I-797, Notice of Action, communicating receipt of the petition. Due to increased filing volumes typically seen during H-1B cap filing periods, there are instances where a paper petition is timely and properly filed by mail, but issuance of the Form I-797 is delayed. If you are a petitioner and have confirmation from the delivery service that the petition was delivered, but you have not yet received a Form I-797 confirming receipt of the petition, you should not submit a second petition. If you have confirmation from the delivery service that the petition was delivered and you then submit a second H-1B cap petition for the same beneficiary, you will be considered to have submitted multiple H-1B cap petitions. This will result in denial or revocation of both petitions.

If more than 30 days have passed since the confirmation of delivery and you have still not received a Form I-797, you may contact the  USCIS Contact Center  for assistance.

If you receive notification from the delivery service, or your tracking information suggests that there may be a delay or damage to the package or that the package was misrouted, you should follow the Delivery Service Error Guidance on the  H-1B Cap Season  webpage.