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Visitor Visa

Visa Waiver Program

Travel Without a Visa

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), for tourism (visa category B-2), or for a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).

Here are some examples of activities permitted with a visitor visa:

Business (B-1)

• Consult with business associates
• Attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
• Settle an estate
• Negotiate a contract

Tourism (B-2)

• Vacation (holiday)
• Visit 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)

Travel Purposes Not Permitted On Visitor Visas

These are some examples of activities that require different categories of visas and cannot be done while on a visitor visa:

• Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience
• Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft
• Work as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media
• Permanent residence in the United States

Visitor visas will also not be issued for birth tourism (travel for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for their child).

How to Apply

There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please consult the instructions on the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate website .

Complete the Online Visa Application

• Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 – Learn more about completing the DS-160 . You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Schedule an Interview

Interviews are generally required for visa applicants with certain limited exceptions below. Consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant.

You should schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be more difficult to qualify for a visa outside of the country where you live. 

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early. Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply: 

Appointment Wait Time

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Note: Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

Prepare for your interview.

• Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee , if you are required to pay it before your interview. If your visa is approved, you may also need to pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below:

Select your nationality to see Issuance Fee

• Review the instructions available on the website of the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.

Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

• Passport valid for travel to the United States – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements ). Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family members listed in your passport.
• Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page.
• Application fee payment receipt, if you are required to pay before your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Additional Documentation May Be Required

Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish if you are qualified. For example, additional requested documents may include evidence of:

• The purpose of your trip,
• Your intent to depart the United States after your trip, and/or
• Your ability to pay all costs of the trip.   

Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may be sufficient to show the purpose of your trip and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all the costs for your trip, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs for your trip.

Note:  Visa applicants must qualify on the basis of the applicant's residence and ties abroad, rather than assurances from U.S. family and friends. A letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a visitor visa. If you choose to bring a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support to your interview, please remember it is not one of the factors used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa.

Attend Your Visa Interview

A consular officer will interview you to determine whether you are qualified to receive a visitor visa. You must establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive a visa.   Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further  administrative processing .  The consular officer will inform you if this required.

After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if applicable to your nationality), and make arrangements for the return of the passport and visa to you.  Review the  visa processing times  to learn more.

Entering the United States

A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. If you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or a paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Learn more about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the CBP website .

Extending Your Stay

See  Extend Your Stay  on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website to learn about requesting to extend your stay beyond the date indicated on your admission stamp or paper Form I-94. 

Failure to depart the United States on time will result in being  out of status . Under U.S. law, visas of individuals who are out of status are automatically voided ( Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ).  Any multiple entry visa that was voided due to being out of status will not be valid for future entries into the United States. 

Failure to depart the United States on time may also result in you being ineligible for visas in the future. Review  Visa Denials  and  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws  to learn more.

Change of Status

If your plans change while in the United States (for example, you marry a U.S. citizen or receive an offer of employment), you may be able to request a change in your nonimmigrant status to another category through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). See  Change My Nonimmigrant Status  on the USCIS website to learn more.

While you are in the United States, receiving a change of status from USCIS does not require you to apply for a new visa.  However, once you depart the United States you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the appropriate category for your travel.

Additional Information

• An individual on a visitor visa (B1/B2) is not permitted to accept employment or work in the United States.
• There is no guarantee you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
• A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States. 

Travel for Medical Treatment

If you are seeking medical treatment in the United States, the consular officer may ask for further documents at your visa interview, which may include:

• Medical diagnosis from a local physician, explaining the nature of the ailment and the reason you need treatment in the United States.
• Letter from a physician or medical facility in the United States, stating they are willing to treat your specific ailment and detailing the projected length and cost of treatment (including doctors’ fees, hospitalization fees, and all medical-related expenses).
• Proof that your transportation, medical, and living expenses in the United States will be paid. This may be in the form of bank or other statements of income/savings or certified copies of income tax returns (either yours or the person or organization paying for your treatment).

Visitor Visas for Personal or Domestic Employees (B-1)

You may apply for a B-1 visitor visa to work in the United States as a personal or domestic employee for your employer in limited situations. You may work in the United States on a visitor visa if your employer is:

• A U.S. citizen who has a permanent home or is stationed in a foreign country, but is visiting or is assigned to the United States temporarily; or
• A foreign citizen who is in the United States on one of the following nonimmigrant visa categories:  B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, or Q.

Learn more about your rights in the United States and protection available to you by reading the Legal Rights and Protections pamphlet.

Visa Renewal

Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your visa, you will use the same application process (please review How to Apply , above). Some applicants seeking to renew their visas in certain visa classes may be eligible for the Interview Waiver (IW) which allows qualified individuals to apply for visa renewals without being interviewed in person by a U.S. consular officer. Review the instructions on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply to determine if the IW is available and if you qualify.

Do I need a visa if I have an ABTC?

Yes, you will still need a visa to travel to the United States, unless you qualify for the  Visa Waiver Program . Having an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC) does not change visa requirements, your visa status, or the visa process for travel to the United States.

How can I use my ABTC when I apply for my visa?

If you have an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC),  you might be able to schedule an expedited visa interview appointment. Review the instructions for scheduling expedited appointments on the website of the  embassy or consulate  where you will apply. 

Visa Annotations for Certain Maritime Industry Workers

Certain foreign maritime workers are eligible to apply for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) once in the U.S. If you, as a maritime industry worker, will perform services in secure port areas, your visa must be annotated “TWIC Letter Received.” Workers whose visas are not annotated will not be permitted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to apply for a TWIC.

In order for your visa to be annotated, you must obtain a letter from your employer explaining the need for a TWIC and that you are a potential TWIC applicant. See a template example of this letter. You must present this letter when you apply for the B-1 visa. You must meet all other eligibility requirements for a B-1 visa. 

Complete information about the TWIC program is available on TSA’s website at  https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic .

Visa Denial and Ineligibility

Review  Visa Denials  for detailed information about visa ineligibilities, denials and waivers.

I was refused a visa, under Section 214(b). May I reapply?

Yes, if you feel circumstances have changed regarding your application. Review  Visa Denials  to learn more.

Misrepresentation or Fraud

Attempting to obtain a visa by the willful misrepresentation of a material fact, or fraud, may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States.

Review  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws .

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not require visas to enter the United States, for visit, tourism and temporary business travel purposes. For more information see  U.S. Embassy Ottawa website ,  U.S. Consulate Hamilton website  and  CBP website .

Additional resources for Canadian visitors to the United States can be found on the U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites in Canada.

Citizens of China

In accordance with the agreement signed between the United States and China to extend visa validity, beginning on November 29, 2016, Chinese citizens with 10-year B1, B2 or B1/B2 visas in Peoples’ Republic of China passports will be required to update their biographical and other information from their visa application via a website every two years, or upon getting a new passport or B1, B2, or B1/B2 visa, whichever occurs first.  This mechanism is called EVUS - Electronic Visa Update System.

The EVUS website is now open to the public for enrollments at www.EVUS.gov .  CBP will not collect a fee for EVUS enrollment at this time. CBP anticipates the eventual implementation of an EVUS enrollment fee, but does not have a time frame. Until the implementation of a fee, travelers can enroll in EVUS without charge.  The Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will keep visa holders informed of new information throughout the year. For further information, please visit  www.cbp.gov/EVUS .‎

根据美中双方签署的延长签证有效期的协议，自2016年11月29日起，凡持有10 年 期B1，B2 或 B1/B2签证的中华人民共和国护照持有人需要每两年或在获取新护照或最长有效期的B1、B2或B1/B2签证时时（以先到者为准），通过网站更新他们签证申请上的个人资料及其它信息。这个机制我们称之为EVUS –签证更新电子系统。

EVUS的登记网站 www.EVUS.gov 现已开放接受登记。美国海关和边境保护局（CBP）目前不会收取登记费用。美国海关和边境保护局预期EVUS登记收费最终会实施，但目前尚未落实执行时间。在收费实施前，旅客可以免费完成EVUS登记。美国国土安全部海关和边境保护局将在今年及时向签证持有人公布最新的信息。获取更多的信息，请访问 www.cbp.gov/EVUS 。

Citizens of Mexico

Citizens and permanent residents of Mexico generally must have a nonimmigrant visa or Border Crossing Card (also known as a "Laser Visa"). For ease of travel, the B-1/B-2 and the Border Crossing Card have been combined into one document (DSP-150). Select  Border Crossing Card  to learn more about this card.

Please visit  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  websites for more information regarding applying for a visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulates in Mexico.

Further Questions

• Case-Specific Questions - Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling your visa application for status information. Select  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  for contact information.
• General Questions - review  Contact Us .

Visa Waiver Program  (VWP)

Tourist or business travelers who are citizens of participating countries may be eligible to visit the United States without a visa. Visits must be 90 days or less, and travelers must meet all requirements.

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not need visas for tourism and visits.

More Information

A-Z Index Legal Rights & Protections Lost/Stolen Travel Documents Denials Fraud Warning Visa Expiration Date Automatic Revalidation Nonimmigrants in the United States–Applying for Visas in Canada or Mexico Visa Applicants - State Sponsors of Terrorism Border Security/Safety Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Customer Service Statement

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Home » Visas » USA Tourist Visa » Visitors Visa Sponsorship

Can a USA Tourist Visa Be Sponsored?

Some people ask whether a tourist visa for the US can really be sponsored.

Since 1999, immihelp ® .com has provided excellent, comprehensive, and detailed information about how people living in the US can show that they are willing to financially help when their relatives visit the US. These relatives may be unable to take care of their expenses for the US trip themselves. Hundreds of thousands of people have benefited from such information. 

However, recently, a few people on various immigration discussion forums have been spreading the word that a tourist visa can never be sponsored, and is always self-sponsored. They additionally maintain that if the visitor can not take care of the trip expenses himself/herself, they should not be allowed to visit the US. 

Well, that is absolutely not the case. 

In that case, is the information on immihelp.com outdated? Of course not. Are they wrong? Well, we will try to clarify the confusion raised by some people. 

What is US visa sponsorship?

Traditionally, a US visa sponsorship has been associated with an employer or close family member filing an immigration petition with the US government. This would be for obtaining a green card for their employee or close family member. It has also been associated with certain nonimmigrant petitions such as a work visa (e.g., H, L visa) as well as a family visa (e.g., Fiancé or K visa). In all of those petitions, the petitioner initiates the process by requesting the US government to grant the immigration benefit to the beneficiary. In that process, among other things, the petitioner, which is either an employer or family member, shows to the US government that they have enough financial resources to either pay the employee or take care of the expenses of the family member. Without such sponsorship, the beneficiary is unable to get the immigration benefit.

What is different in a US tourist visa?

When people apply for a tourist visa (visitors visa), among other things, they have to show that they have strong ties to their home country and that they intend to return to their home country after their temporary stay in the US. They also have to show that there is enough money available to take care of the expenses for their US trip such as air tickets , visitors insurance , lodging/boarding, transportation expenses, tourism expenses and all other expenses. 

However, there is absolutely no requirement that only the visitors themselves have to come up with that money and that they must have their own money to fund the US trip. For example, there are many elderly parents in India who are genuine visitors to the US, but don’t have the finances to fund their own trip. However, they have their son or daughter that lives in the US who can very well fund their trip. There is absolutely nothing wrong in a US relative showing proof that he or she has enough money to take care of their parents’ or in-laws’ trip to the US. To show that they are sincere about it and to also show the proof of the same, they fill the  Form I-134, Affidavit of Support , and  provide other supporting documents.  This is to show their income and savings to convince the visa officer that the helping relative indeed has that kind of money. 

Since the process of showing proof of financial ability and willingness to support is the same either way, we have called this process sponsoring the visitors visa and that is the terminology that is being widely used. It does not matter whether you call these documents ‘sponsor documents’, ‘financial help to the visitor’, ‘provide financial support’, or anything else, it is the same in any case. 

Because the name or any other information of such a helper/support is not written anywhere on the visa stamp, there is no petition, and as it is not required for every visitor to find such a supporter or helper (in case they can support themselves), some people claim that a visitors visa can’t be sponsored, which is not entirely correct. Of course, it is very well understood that if the visitors can show that they can financially take care of the trip themselves, it is always better to do so, as being financially well-off can be one of the ties to the home country. However, that is not an absolute requirement that they must always do so, and that if they are unable to do so, they can’t get a visitors visa. 

Visa vs Trip

To put in other words, ‘Visa’ is not sponsored, but ‘trip’ is sponsored, if that makes any of the doubters more comfortable. Anybody can pay for the expenses. In fact, there are three distinct questions in  DS-160 Form : contact person in the US, who are you visiting, and who is paying for your trip. They can all be different (although it is better to have the first and second person as the same). The person you are visiting (who is a sponsor) should be of legal status in the US and that does not mean having a valid Visa, but a valid I-94, green card, or US citizenship. Questions in the DS-160 alone are enough proof that others can pay for the trip expenses of the visitors, if they themselves are unable to do so. If it were not allowed, there would be no such questions in the first place.

It is also possible to have the funds provided by one relative in the Visa application and subsequent trips (using the same Visa) are funded by a different relative. The first relative may not even be in the US anymore. 

Matter of Interpretation or Intent

It is really up to various people on immigration forums whether they are genuinely interested in helping such genuine visitors or they would like to spread misinformation and scare them away. When some company sponsors an event or show, do they really file a petition somewhere? No. They just provide financial help. In other words, the sponsorship word is not strictly limited to filing a petition but is used in a wider context to help someone with something. If anyone still has a doubt about the meaning of the English word ‘sponsor’, they should refer to any reputed dictionary.

Additionally, please keep in mind that US consular officers are among the smartest people in the world. For example, they deal with over a thousand applicants every day at each consulate in India. They absolutely know what is going on with so many visitors visa applicants. Hundreds of thousands of visitors get visitors visas every year in such a manner. 

In short, whatever name you call, relatives in the US are always allowed to financially help their relatives visit the US. 

Therefore, be confident when you “sponsor” your relatives to visit the US.

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Family of U.S. Citizens

This page describes how you (a U.S. citizen) may petition for certain family members to receive either a Green Card, a fiancé(e) visa or a K-3/K-4 visa based on your relationship. (If your relative wishes to naturalize or obtain proof of citizenship, see the Citizenship section of our website.)

To petition for a family member to receive a Green Card (permanent residence), begin by filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative . This form establishes the family relationship that exists between you and your relative. Sometimes the I-130 can be filed together with an application for permanent residence, officially known as Form I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status . This is discussed below.

• If your relative is already in the United States, they may apply to adjust status to become a Green Card holder (lawful permanent resident) after a visa number becomes available using Form I-485.
• If your relative is outside the United States, your petition will be sent to the National Visa Center (NVC). The NVC will forward your petition to the appropriate U.S. consulate when a visa becomes available and your relative will be notified about how to proceed. This process is referred to as “consular processing.”
• Your family member’s preference category will determine how long they will have to wait for an immigrant visa number. Once you have filed a petition, you can check its progress the My Case Status page. For visa availability information, see the Visa Bulletin page on the U.S. Department of State website.

For more information on becoming a Green Card holder, see the Adjustment of Status for processing within the United States and Consular Processing page for processing overseas. For more information on Green Cards, see the Green Card section.

NOTE : A visa petition (Form I-130 or Form I-129F) is only used to demonstrate a qualifying relationship. An approved petition DOES NOT grant any benefit, it simply creates a place in line for visa processing.

If you or a member of your family is in the U.S. military, special conditions may apply. See the Military section of the website.

More Information

• How Do I Help My Relative Become a Permanent Resident? (PDF, 688.27 KB)
• How Do I Help My Fiancé(e) Become a Permanent Resident? (PDF, 679.12 KB)
• Citizenship
• Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative
• I-485, Application to Register Permanent Residence or Adjust Status
• I-864, Affidavit of Support
• I-129F, Petition for Alien Fiance(e)
• Family Based Forms

Other USCIS Links

• Green Card for a Family Member of a U.S. Citizen
• Green Card for Immediate Relative of a U.S. Citizen
• Visa Availability & Priority Dates

External Links

• Visa Bulletin

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Visit the U.S. as a tourist

Learn about travel documents to enter the U.S., including visa waivers and non-immigrant visas.

Visa Waiver Program and ESTA application

The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.

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.

How to check the status of your visa application

Find out how to check the status of your visa application online. And to avoid delays, learn how to update your address if you move while waiting for your visa to be approved.

What happens if your visa application is rejected

Find out what to do if your visa is denied, and learn if you are eligible for a waiver of grounds of inadmissibility.

COVID-19 international travel advisories

If you plan to visit the U.S., you do not need to be tested or vaccinated for COVID-19.

Entering the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda

See what travel documents you need to enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda.

Form I-94 arrival-departure record for U.S. visitors

Visa Waiver Program forms I-94 and I-94W record the arrival and departure dates of U.S. visitors.

How to extend your stay in the U.S.

You may be able to extend your stay in the U.S. Learn if you qualify and how to file for an extension.

Foreign visitors: what to do if your visa or passport is lost or stolen

If you are in the U.S. and your visa or passport was lost or stolen, learn how to report it and apply for a new one.

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How do I help a family member or friend apply to visit Canada?

Anyone who plans to visit Canada must apply from outside of Canada before they travel.

What your friend or family member needs depends on:

• the type of travel document they will travel with;
• the country that issued their travel document;
• their nationality; and
• how they will travel to Canada.

Before applying , find out what document(s) they need .

If they need a visitor visa, you may provide your family member or friend with a letter of invitation in support of their visa application. A letter of invitation can help, but it does not guarantee the person will get a visa.

New entry requirement now in effect

Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens , and Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for an eTA.

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Will you get usa visit visa if your brother and sister are there.

While it might be very exciting to have a sibling living in the US who can show you all the sights and sounds of the country, the bad news is that having a brother and sister living in America doesn’t make the visa process is easier or guaranteed.

No individual living in the US can sponsor a US B1/B2 visa for a relative living in their home country. Each visa applicant is judged individually.

Ultimately, it will be your credentials that will get you through the visa application process , especially your commitment to returning to your home country after a short tourist visit to America.

I don’t need to remind you of the furore that exists right now, under the Trump administration, about people trying to illegally migrate to the US.

The US embassy will verify all information provided by you in the visa application form before they make a decision.

In case the officials have any questions regarding the information provided, they’ll clarify it with you during the visa interview.

So, the first step is to fill the DS-160 application form and submit it to the embassy or consulate closest to your location.

What will help you is a letter of invitation for you to stay with your sibling from your brother or sister in the US, which you can attach, along with their details and address, to your visa application form.

In this article…

Documents Required

You’ll have to ask your brother or sister living in the US to send you the following documents :

• Their employment letter .
• Copy of their Visa/Greencard or any other document that proves their living status in the US.
• Personal invitation letter addressed to you, stating that you’d been invited by them to visit the US.
• Form I 134: Affidavit of support form.
• Recent pay stubs from their workplace.
• Income tax documents for the number of years they have been living in America (minimum 3 years).
• Bank letter or bank statement showing the balance held by them, establishing that they can support you while you are in the US.
• Documents proving identification, relationship with you and their legal status in the US.
• Letter to the consulate (forwarded to you) stating that your brother and sister living in America will take care of your expenses during your stay.

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Questions Commonly Asked During the Interview

• Where does your brother/sister do in the US?
• Where do they work?
• How much do they earn?

Importance of Invitation Letter for US Visitor Visa

The invitation letter is meant for travellers visiting US to meet a family member or friend.

The aim of this letter is to make sure where would you stay while you are in America, while also ensuring that you will be financially secure during your visit.

The invitation letter is, however, not required for the issuance of a B-2 visa .

Although an invitation letter doesn’t need to follow a specific format or style of writing, it should include crucial information about the person being invited, such as their complete name, date of birth, address, telephone number, and relationship with the person inviting them, purpose of the trip , intended duration of stay in the US, their leaving date, details regarding living expenses and accommodation.

The letter should also include the complete name, date of birth, address and telephone number of the person inviting you to the US, their occupation, copy of a document proving their legal status in America.

Got questions? Please ask in the comments.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Does having a brother or sister in the USA increase my chances of getting a US visit visa?

While having a brother or sister in the US does not directly increase your chances of obtaining a visit visa , it could potentially indicate stronger ties to the US. However, the decision to grant a visa will primarily depend on your personal circumstances, such as financial stability, employment status, travel history, and more.

2. Will having family in the USA affect my B2 visa application?

Having family in the US can affect your B2 visa application, but it doesn’t necessarily guarantee approval or denial . It could indicate potential immigrant intent, which might negatively affect your application, as B2 visas are for non-immigrant purposes. However, if you provide sufficient proof of your intention to return home, such as stable employment, property ownership, etc., it might help your case.

3. Can my siblings in the USA sponsor my visit visa?

Siblings can provide an invitation letter to support your visit visa application, but they can’t formally sponsor a B2 visa. A B2 visa is a non-immigrant visa for temporary visitors and is generally not based on sponsorship , unlike some immigrant visas.

4. Can I change my status to an immigrant visa if I have siblings in the USA while on a visit visa?

It is theoretically possible to adjust your status while in the US, but this process is complicated and has strict requirements. Having siblings in the USA might allow you to apply for a family-based Green Card , but the waiting times for these are often extremely long. Changing from a non-immigrant to an immigrant status while in the US can also be viewed suspiciously by immigration authorities and could affect future visa applications.

5. How long can I stay in the USA on a visit visa?

Generally, B2 visit visa holders can stay in the US for up to six months. However, the exact duration of your stay will be determined by the Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry .

(Please consult with a legal expert or immigration consultant to get the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding US visit visa procedures and requirements.)

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About the Author

Mani Karthik

Ex “NRI” and Founder of the “Back to India” movement. I share my experience about immigrating to USA here.

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Still No luck for siblings under current atmosphere . If your sibling is a techie, dont even think about it. The answer from officer would be ‘you are not qualified’ which leaves unnecessary remark on their profile. Now we can Only pray for good times to get the visa approved for sibs

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• Bringing Family Members of US Citizens to America

Can my brother get a tourist visa?

By Lazy Monk October 6, 2020 in Bringing Family Members of US Citizens to America

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14 posts in this topic

Recommended posts, lazy monk   0.

Hello folks

I'm a USC and I was wondering that if I sponsor my brother who is over 21, married with kids living in the middle-east, would be able to get a tourist visa while the sponsorship petition is in its tracks. He has a steady job and has been living there for over 10 years and is a permanent resident, with his bank statements and strong ties to that country, he would most likely get a tourist visa(it would be his first time applying for one).

But then, my concern is if I should sponsor him before him applying for a tourist visa or after he gets one. Which scenario would be better? I don't want him not to be able to visit while his sponsorship petition is pending and that could take years. What would your expert opinion be on this matter? Thanks in advance

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Olga88   84

What country he lives in? I applied for tourist visa this year to go see my fiancé but us consulate doesn’t take any papers anymore..at least in my country. The checked only submitted online form ds-160 and my passport. I brought so many papers with me. Sponsor papers and invitation. But it didn’t matter. They refuse to see anything.  Its just my experience 

Dashinka   22,978

B2 visa applications are dependent on the applicant and their ties to their home/resident country.  Consulates may or may not take into account an active I130, but considering this is a sibling married and over 21 with a spouse and children not eligible to AOS if he is in the US, it may not make a big difference if the I130 is in process for a potential F4 visa.  All he can do is try assuming the consulate where your brother is a resident is accepting B2 applications.

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50 minutes ago, Olga88 said: What country he lives in? I applied for tourist visa this year to go see my fiancé but us consulate doesn’t take any papers anymore..at least in my country. The checked only submitted online form ds-160 and my passport. I brought so many papers with me. Sponsor papers and invitation. But it didn’t matter. They refuse to see anything.  Its just my experience 

He lives in Bahrain.

23 minutes ago, Dashinka said: B2 visa applications are dependent on the applicant and their ties to their home/resident country.  Consulates may or may not take into account an active I130, but considering this is a sibling married and over 21 with a spouse and children not eligible to AOS if he is in the US, it may not make a big difference if the I130 is in process for a potential F4 visa.  All he can do is try assuming the consulate where your brother is a resident is accepting B2 applications.   Good Luck!

So it won't make any difference if he applies for a B2, only if they're accepting applications? B2 and F4 won't collide or have any effect on each other considering his circumstances?

Cyberfx1024   7,978

1 minute ago, Lazy Monk said: So it won't make any difference if he applies for a B2, only if they're accepting applications? B2 and F4 won't collide or have any effect on each other considering his circumstances?

Nope, they are two complete different visas. So it won't hurt anything if he applies for a tourist visa. 

• Lazy Monk , Crazy Cat and Dashinka

Unlockable   7,306

1 hour ago, Lazy Monk said: Hello folks   I'm a USC and I was wondering that if I sponsor my brother who is over 21, married with kids living in the middle-east, would be able to get a tourist visa while the sponsorship petition is in its tracks. He has a steady job and has been living there for over 10 years and is a permanent resident, with his bank statements and strong ties to that country, he would most likely get a tourist visa(it would be his first time applying for one). But then, my concern is if I should sponsor him before him applying for a tourist visa or after he gets one. Which scenario would be better? I don't want him not to be able to visit while his sponsorship petition is pending and that could take years. What would your expert opinion be on this matter? Thanks in advance

There is technically NO sponsorship for tourist visas for the US. You can help him with the cost and filling out the application but that is it. You can't sponsor a person for a tourist visa. They have to apply on their own under their own merits. Nothing you have or do will help them.

Him applying for a tourist visa will not affect his petition to immigrate. Nobody can say if he will get the visa or not. He can only apply and see.

1 hour ago, Olga88 said: What country he lives in? I applied for tourist visa this year to go see my fiancé but us consulate doesn’t take any papers anymore..at least in my country. The checked only submitted online form ds-160 and my passport. I brought so many papers with me. Sponsor papers and invitation. But it didn’t matter. They refuse to see anything.  Its just my experience 

Yes, we have seen this so many times here. It is a huge misconception that sponsorship and invitation letters help B2 applicants. It is simply not true. A consulate does not have to see any of those documents because it is not required for a tourist visa.

• Crazy Cat and SalishSea

“When starting an immigration journey, the best advice is to understand that sacrifices have to be made... whether it is time, money, or separation; or a combination of all.” - Unlockable

15 minutes ago, Unlockable said:   There is technically NO sponsorship for tourist visas for the US. You can help him with the cost and filling out the application but that is it. You can't sponsor a person for a tourist visa. They have to apply on their own under their own merits. Nothing you have or do will help them.   Him applying for a tourist visa will not affect his petition to immigrate. Nobody can say if he will get the visa or not. He can only apply and see.   Yes, we have seen this so many times here. It is a huge misconception that sponsorship and invitation letters help B2 applicants. It is simply not true. A consulate does not have to see any of those documents because it is not required for a tourist visa.

I think they are talking about sponsoring the sibling for an F4 and if that would impact a subsequent B2 application, not sponsoring the brother for a B2.

1 hour ago, Unlockable said:   There is technically NO sponsorship for tourist visas for the US. You can help him with the cost and filling out the application but that is it. You can't sponsor a person for a tourist visa. They have to apply on their own under their own merits. Nothing you have or do will help them.   Him applying for a tourist visa will not affect his petition to immigrate. Nobody can say if he will get the visa or not. He can only apply and see.   Yes, we have seen this so many times here. It is a huge misconception that sponsorship and invitation letters help B2 applicants. It is simply not true. A consulate does not have to see any of those documents because it is not required for a tourist visa.

I'm not looking to sponsor him for a tourist visa because I am aware there's no such thing like that. All I'm concerned about is, whether he would or won't be able to be get a tourist visa while the petition is pending or should he apply for one after I petition for him.

1 hour ago, Dashinka said: I think they are talking about sponsoring the sibling for an F4 and if that would impact a subsequent B2 application, not sponsoring the brother for a B2.

Thank you for clarifying it. 

@geowrian @Lucky Cat @Going through your thoughts please?

Crazy Cat   38,895

2 hours ago, Lazy Monk said: B2 and F4 won't collide or have any effect on each other considering his circumstances?

That is correct, imo.

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SusieQQQ   11,584

14 minutes ago, Lazy Monk said: I'm not looking to sponsor him for a tourist visa because I am aware there's no such thing like that. All I'm concerned about is, whether he would or won't be able to be get a tourist visa while the petition is pending or should he apply for one after I petition for him.

I was able to renew, and my derivative family get new, B visas while we had a F3 application pending. No problem. As with any other B visa, chances of getting it depend on ties one can show to their home country. A denial of a B for immigrant intent would have no impact on getting an immigrant visa later.

• Crazy Cat and Lazy Monk

geowrian   22,335

If he wants to visit, then he should apply. Worst case is they refuse the visa and the $160 fee. As long as he doesn't lie, it won't hurt a future visa attempt.

There is no sponsorship for a tourist visa. One can volunteer to pay for travel expenses. If the visa applicant is not paying their own, then the name of the individual who is should be listed. No further evidence from then is needed.

In terms of a timeline, generally I would say it's better to apply for the tourist visa before starting any sort of immigrant visa process. That said, for his category - since overstay is not ignored anyway - I don't think a pending petition with years left would make much of a difference either way. They will look at the merits of his case right now and issue or refuse the visa based on that.

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Visitor Visa for my Brother

• Thread starter mannj
• Start date Oct 21, 2017

Full Member

Hello Everyone, My brother is applying for visitor visa to Canada. I have to send Invitation letter to him for this purpose. I want to know if I can get the invitation letter signed by Oath commissioner and send a scanned copy of it to my brother and he can just attach that copy in his file. Or do I have to send the original copy via courier for his file. Also, he is showing the following ties to his country (India). Will this be enough for him to prove that he will go back or we need to give more proofs as well. He is visiting Canada just for two weeks: 1. Vacation and employment letter from his company where he works stating that he will join back his work after vacation of two weeks and his manager knows about his visit to Canada. 2. My brother is married and his wife will not be travelling with him. He will be coming alone. 3. My old parents live in India, so he is the only son to take care of them, so he will go back. Also, he is showing $2000 as available funds. I am showing my bank statements as financial proof. Also, I have declared in my invitation letter that I will take care of all his expenses and he will stay with me during his entire stay and I have a 2 bedroom apartment( lease on my name). Thank You!  

mannj said: Hello Everyone, My brother is applying for visitor visa to Canada. I have to send Invitation letter to him for this purpose. I want to know if I can get the invitation letter signed by Oath commissioner and send a scanned copy of it to my brother and he can just attach that copy in his file. Or do I have to send the original copy via courier for his file. Click to expand...

Also, he is showing the following ties to his country (India). Will this be enough for him to prove that he will go back or we need to give more proofs as well. He is visiting Canada just for two weeks: Click to expand...

Also, he is showing $2000 as available funds. Click to expand...

I am showing my bank statements as financial proof. Also, I have declared in my invitation letter that I will take care of all his expenses and he will stay with me during his entire stay and I have a 2 bedroom apartment( lease on my name). Click to expand...

Hello Mannj, How's the application of your brother? I will also apply for my siblings. need advise  

mannj said: Hello Everyone, My brother is applying for visitor visa to Canada. I have to send Invitation letter to him for this purpose. I want to know if I can get the invitation letter signed by Oath commissioner and send a scanned copy of it to my brother and he can just attach that copy in his file. Or do I have to send the original copy via courier for his file. Also, he is showing the following ties to his country (India). Will this be enough for him to prove that he will go back or we need to give more proofs as well. He is visiting Canada just for two weeks: 1. Vacation and employment letter from his company where he works stating that he will join back his work after vacation of two weeks and his manager knows about his visit to Canada. 2. My brother is married and his wife will not be travelling with him. He will be coming alone. 3. My old parents live in India, so he is the only son to take care of them, so he will go back. Also, he is showing $2000 as available funds. I am showing my bank statements as financial proof. Also, I have declared in my invitation letter that I will take care of all his expenses and he will stay with me during his entire stay and I have a 2 bedroom apartment( lease on my name). Thank You! Click to expand...