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USA Tourist Visa – Visitor Documents

The following documents are needed for a tourist visa for the USA.

There is no guarantee that the tourist visa will be issued even if you bring all the documents and evidence. Present only valid documents. Fraud or misrepresentation can result in a permanent ineligibility for a US visa.

You will need the following documents to obtain a USA tourist visa:

Mandatory US Tourist Visa Documents

• Current  passport as well as old passports
• One photograph
• Confirmation page of online submitted  Form DS-160 with CEAC barcode.
• Visa Fee Receipt Fees to be paid in advance before taking an appointment.
• Original interview appointment letter. Sample

Non-Immigrant Intent

Applicants for visitor visas must show that they qualify under the provisions of the Immigration and Nationality Act. The presumption in the Act is that every applicant is an intending immigrant. Therefore, applicants must overcome this presumption by demonstrating that:

• the purpose of their trip is to enter the United States temporarily for business or pleasure or medical treatment; 
• they plan to remain for a specific, limited period; 
• they have a residence outside of the United States and they intend to return abroad at the conclusion of the visit.

The prime criterion of the issuance of a visitor visa is if the applicant is able to convince the consular officer that the applicant truly intends to return to his/her home country after a temporary stay in the United States. It is impossible to specify the exact form of such documentation as each applicant’s circumstances vary greatly. Each applicant must keep in mind that the interview will focus on his or her credibility and not only the documents presented. 

It is generally difficult for young people to present strong ties. In such cases, the consular office may consider the applicant’s education status/grades, long-range plans, parents’ status, prospects in the home country, previous travel to other countries, etc.

Supporting US tourist visa documents

Most of your documents are for showing that you will return to the home country after your temporary stay in the United States. e.g., proof of work, proof of property, bank deposits, family ties, etc.

Please note that it is not mandatory that you gather each and every document listed here. There is no specific list prescribed by the government. However, the more documents you take, the better it is for you.

• Photocopies of the first page, last page and remarks pages of your current  passport . 
• Applicants who do not have sufficient funds of their own to support themselves during their proposed stay in the United States must present credible evidence to show that they will be supported thereby some interested person; such evidence should reflect the ties between applicant and sponsor which form the basis for the latter’s assurances of extending support. You should present all original documents  sent to you by your sponsor in the USA.  If someone is sponsoring you, you don’t have to show enough financial means by yourself to take care of your expenses for your trip to the US However, you should still take the property, employment/profession, and financial documents, as described below, to help you prove the strong ties to the home country.  As much as possible, avoid getting the affidavit of support from people who own small businesses such as gas stations, grocery stores or motels. Consular officers believe that these people employ people illegally and may employ you also. You are supposed to be going as a tourist, and not for work.  If you have photographs with you and the sponsor is in them, please carry them. 
• Self-Sponsored Applicants Self-sponsored applicants may show evidence of financial resources through property, employment/profession, and financial documents, as described below.  For parents visiting a child resident in the US, you need to provide the documents listed in the ‘Identification, Relationship and Legal Status Documents’ section in  sponsor documents . 
• You have a residence outside of the US that you do not intend on abandoning. This can be shown via deeds to real estate. These help to persuade the consular officer that you have strong ties to your home country and are likely to return there.
• Proof of property such as a house, shop, godown (warehouse), etc. Take the original ownership papers. If you have a loan on any of these properties, the original papers may not be with you. In that case, take whatever documents you have.  Also take the property estimate given by the Chartered Accountant that may include items such as land, flat, jewelry, etc. in addition to the real estate property.
• Photographs of your house, office, factory, shop or other properties. 
• Personal affidavit(s) regarding the property. Business owners should show how much they earned last year. Indicate ties such as having elderly parents you need to take care of or a child whom you need to help after your return with wedding arrangements. Also, describing the nature of the trip and details of the itinerary  is helpful. Sample affidavit for father Sample affidavit for mother   It is better to make a separate affidavit for each person, rather than a combined one for both of them. These affidavits cannot be on stamp paper, but instead on the CA’s letterhead.
• If you are employed, get a letter from an employer that shows the details of your position, salary, length of employment, the period of authorized vacation; and the purpose of your US trip. Also, carry pay slips from the three most recent months.
• If you are retired and get a pension, your pension book. 
• If you own a business, bring the company registration certificate and its income details.
• If you are running a business in partnership, bring your partnership agreement. 
• If you are employed or have a business, bring your visiting card (business card). 
• If you hold any social or professional designations in the home country, bring proof related to that. 
• A No Objection Certificate (NOC) letter and Leave Sanction letter if the applicant is in Government service or with any of the Armed Forces.  If you are employed in a private place, your leave sanction letter.  Sample No Objection and Leave Sanction Letter  
• If you hold any post or designation in professional, religious, or fraternal organizations, proof of the same. e.g., lions club president or secretary, trustee of the temple etc. 
• Latest income tax returns for last 3 years (i.e., Form 16 or Form 2D). You should take the originals.  Some people pay income tax only in the year in which they are applying for the visitor visa, even if they never paid income tax in their entire life. They think that if they show that they are paying income tax, they will get the visa. It is not that simple. 
• Some bank balance for at least a few months before going for a visa. Please note that simple bank letters showing simply the bank balance is not acceptable. You have to also take the past few months (say 6 months) of statements with you, or the pass book. 
• Other financial papers e.g., bank fixed deposits, shares (demat account statements), life insurance policies, bonds, etc. 
• Family photographs of close family.
• Documents about the family (e.g.,  marriage certificate ,  birth certificates  of any children, etc.) 
• Your family tree chart that shows your close relatives’ names, ages, professions and the addresses. 
• If you are applying alone and if your spouse has been to the US before, bring the original passport of your spouse, but only if your spouse is currently not visiting the US
• If you have traveled outside of the home country in the past, your photographs taken during your visit(s) are recommended. 
• If you have traveled to the US earlier on any visa and came back to your home country on time, show the proof as per stamps in your passport or copies of plane tickets or boarding passes. 
• If you have been to the US earlier and applied for an  extension of stay , you must present a Form I-797 Extension of Status Approval Notice during your subsequent visa interview. 
• If any of your close relatives have been to the US and have returned on time, proof of the same.
• Cover letter highlighting the nature of the visit, reason for travel, an outline of your plans in the US and explaining why you will return to the home country (family ties, employment, or similar binding obligations). Preferably, it should be written in bullet points and be less than 1 page. Sample   Major tourist places in the US
• Optionally, include letters of invitation from relatives or friends in the United States whom the applicant plans to visit, a confirmation of participation in group tours, an invitation to an event such as a printed wedding invitation, or an invitation to attend a graduation, etc. 
• For children below 14 years of age, the  original birth certificate , and, if applicable, parents’ valid visas.  Birth certificates or marriage certificates of adult applicants are not required. 
• List of names, addresses, and phone numbers of all the persons whom you are going to visit or stay with. 
• Air Tickets If they ask for a return air ticket, tell them it will be purchased after the visa is issued. Don’t show a one way air ticket in any case.
• Visitor Medical Insurance If they ask for  visitors medical insurance , you can purchase it from  Insubuy . It is not mandatory to get visitors insurance before getting the visitors visa. 
• Dependents joining their spouse abroad need to carry their original  marriage certificate  and entire wedding photo album along with the spouse’s visa copy. 
• Criminal/court records pertaining to any arrest or conviction anywhere, even if you completed your sentence or were later pardoned.
• Purpose Specific Documents   Gather these additional documents, if applicable, for the specific purpose of your visit. 
• Additional documents for young persons
• If there are variations in the names in different documents, prepare a One and the Same Person affidavit.  Sample one and the same person affidavit  
• It is not possible to list all documents that anyone may need in any situation. Therefore, even if some document is not listed here, and you think that it would be helpful to show your genuine purpose to visit the US or it can show your close ties to the home country that will force you to return, please carry those documents. 

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• Visitor Medical Insurance Directory Fillable Forms Read/Post Experiences Sample Documents

Before Interview

• Affidavit Support - Form I-134 Allowed Activities / Pregnancy Overview Sponsor (Inviter) Documents Visa Application Sponsorship FAQ Appointment Waiting Timings Visa Fees Visitor Documents Photo Requirements Visitors Visa Process Visitors Visa Sponsorship Young and/or Unmarried More Topics
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After Interview

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What Documents are Required for US Visitor Visa

With over 77 million international visitors each year, the United States receives 15.7% of all world travelers, according to the figures released by the National Travel and Tourism Office. The US boasts plethora of unique tourist attractions, from the incredible landscape of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the rich French architecture of New Orleans.

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Types of US Visitor Visa

To travel to America, you first need to apply for a US visitor visa , which is a temporary visa issued to a person who intends to travel to the country for the purposes of business, tourism, or both, or for medical treatment. 

Those traveling to the US for the purposes of temporary employment, education, religious work, etc., need to apply under a different visa category. There are two types of US visitor visas, so make sure to choose the one that best suits the purpose of your visit.

Business Visa (B1): A business visa is issued for the following purposes:

• Consulting business associates
• Negotiating a business contract
• Attending a scientific, business, or educational convention
• To settle an estate.

Tourism Visa (B2): A tourism visa is issued for the following purposes:

• Visiting family and friends residing in the US
• Medical treatment or procedures
• Tourism and leisure
• Participating in a music , sports, or social events, only if these activities do not result in any monetary remuneration
• Enrolling in certain recreational courses that do not count for credit towards a degree.

Documents Required for US Visitor Visa

The process of getting a visitor visa starts by filling up the non-immigration visa application form , DS-160 . You need to submit certain necessary documents along with the accurately filled application form. These documents include:

• Your original passport, which must be valid for at least six months after the completion of your intended visit to the US, along with all your old passports, if any.
• A digital as well as hard copy of your passport-sized photograph, according to the specifications set by the US government.
• The confirmation page that you have submitted the visa application form. 
• Proof of payment of the visa fee, as well as the original copy of your interview appointment letter.
• Documents verifying that you do not have any criminal history, in your home country or in any other country.
• Documents proving that you are financially capable of taking care of all expenses during your travels in America. Proof of financial ability can include recent bank statements, pay slips for the last three months, copies of your recent tax returns.
• In case you are visiting America to meet with relatives or friends or to attend an event, you will need to submit a letter of invitation or proof of the event.
• For those seeking medical treatment in the United States, documents from a doctor in their home country as well as a doctor and hospital in the United States accepting the person for treatment, must be attached.

Make sure your check and recheck the form and all the documents before submission, since any mistake or missing information could not just delay the visa approval, you could even risk being denied a visa.

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US Visitor Visa Documents Checklist (B1-B2 Tourist, Business & Family)

Most people think documents are the key to unlocking a US visa.

But truth be told……it’s not.

The crucial part is the DS160 form and the interview itself.

So, the document doesn’t matter? Of course, documents do matter. That’s because the DS160 form of the B1-B2 visa needs to be filled in with your personal details, that match your documents.

Also – when bringing documents with you at the interview, you feel more confident because in case the visa officers ask for proof, you can produce the right documentation for them.

US Visitor Visa Documents Checklist for your visa interview?

Well, these include your professional and financial documents, along with the documentation related to your purpose of the trip, your civil status (marriage certificate, birth certificate of your kids)

The consular officers are not interested in reviewing these documents during the interview. However, having these papers ready may be beneficial.

Let me show you the complete US Visitor Visa Documents Checklist.

When completing the DS160 application, you have to provide information based on your purpose of the visit and available documents with you.

The below-listed documents vary based on individual circumstances. These papers are the most common ones needed when fulfilling the DS160 application.

Mandatory Documents for b1/b2 visa documents checklist

1. Valid Passport

Your passport must remain valid for at least 6 months at the end of your intended stay in the US. Also, if you have an old passport, keep it ready for the visa officers to see. Since US visa officers doesn’t check any additional documents, they mostly rely on your past travel history.

2. Proof that You will Return to Your Home Country

The below papers will prove that you have ties in your home country. This evidence shows you will less likely to overstay in the US after the visit.

• Documents that you own land in your home country. Proof of ownership of any real estate.
• Relationships with family members who are living in your home country.
• Professional documents, document from employers, or business registration
• A letter from your company will be waiting for you on your return
• Birth certificate of children
• Birth certificate of your family member who requires your presence in the home country

3. Your Sponsorship Details During the Stay in the US (if you show sponsorship)

• Affidavit of support/invitation letter from your sponsor. The letter must mention the details of the sponsorship and why they are sponsoring you. The citizen can be your family member or friend.
• A letter from your family or friend mentioning you will stay with them in the US
• Your bank statements. Make sure the cash is accessible in the US
• Proof of your current income source

4. Letters Supporting Your Travel/ Visit Purpose

Include the below documents:

• Proof of hotel arrangements
• Written itinerary of car rentals
• Event ticket
• Invitation letter for a training program/ conferences

If your visit is for business purposes, your US entity must send you a letter describing your activities in the US. Also, the letter should include your responsibilities during the trip and other financial details.

5. Photograph

The included photograph can’t be more than 6 months old. Your face should be clear, and you can’t hide any part of your face. However, wearing religious clothing or attire is allowed. Make sure your photograph is captured following the specifications.

If you wear glasses, you need to wear off before you take the photo.

Now, let’s learn what supporting documents are necessary for the B1/B2 visa.

Supporting Documents for Tourism Purposes

• Travel itinerary

Supporting Documents for Attending Family Event

• Invitation letter from your relatives or family members
• Invitation card
• Accommodation details

Supporting Documents for Business Purpose Trip

• US-based business associate’s information
• Business care of the applicant
• Invitation letter from the business organization

Supporting Documents for Medical Treatment In The US

Three types of documents are required if you are visiting the US for medical treatment

1. A statement from your local physician supporting

• You need higher treatment based on the diagnostic report
• Explaining the nature of your medical emergency

2. A statement from a US medical facility saying

• You are willing to take treatment from a medical facility in the US with the appointment
• Treatment cost

3. Financial evidence that you can bear the treatment cost, including hospitalization, doctor’s fee, transportation, living expenses, and other medical costs.

Supporting Documents if a B1 Visa Holder (Children/Spouse) Requesting Accompany from B2 Visa Holder

• Passport and visa copy of the B1 holder
• Invitation from the B1 holder
• Accommodation and expenses from the sponsor, whether from the organization/company or the B1 visa holder paying the expenses
• Letter from B1 visa holder to consulate requesting the visa for spouse or children. The B1 visa holder can be your family member or organization/company.

Other Papers for US Visitor Visa

For private service holders

• A letter of employment verification

For Government employees

• NOC/ Government order

For self-employed or freelancers

• Evidence of business ownership
• Financial history

Generally, visa officers don’t care about the documents or papers during the interview. What they care about is how you answer the questions. Also, whether or not you are answering the questions appropriately. Your answers will help them decide to approve your visa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the eligibility requirement for b1/b2 visa.

As mentioned, the US visitor B1/B2 visa is for nonimmigrant applicants. Visa holders can engage in the below particular activities in the USA.

• Visiting the country to enjoy the holiday
• Traveling to different cities and countryside in the US
• Visiting family and friends
• Participating in an event organized by companies
• Visiting the US for medical purposes
• Joining sports or music events
• Participating in a short-term course

Can I study with a US visitor visa?

No, you can’t. The United States has an ‘F’ or ‘M’ student visa. US visitor visa holders can join recreational study under the validity period. Or they can also change the visa status from B to F and study there.

How much bank balance is required for US tourist visa?

There is no definite amount but we recommend keeping at least $10000 in your account to be on the safe side, if you plan to visit on your own fund.

If My US Visa Is Rejected, When Can I Apply Again?

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Required Documents for a U.S. Visitor Visa Interview

When preparing for a u.s. visitor visa interview, it is important to have the necessary documents in order. these typically include a valid passport, ds-160 confirmation page, visa application fee receipt, appointment letter, photograph, and supporting documents such as financial statements and travel itinerary. ensuring you have all the required documents will help make the visa interview process go smoothly..

Quick Glance:

Embarking on a journey to the United States requires a B1/B2 visitor visa and a successful interview at the embassy. Key documents include a valid passport, application form confirmation, interview appointment letter, and visa fee receipt. Financial and employment documentation and additional supporting documents can strengthen your application. Being prepared and organized for the interview is crucial. External resources and guidance from the U.S. Department of State can provide valuable information. Embarking on a journey to visit the United States is an exciting endeavor, whether for tourism, business, or family reunions. Applying for a visitor visa, specifically a B1/B2 visa, is an essential step in this journey. The interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate plays a pivotal role, and coming prepared with the correct documentation can make a significant difference in the outcome of your application. Let’s delve into what documents you need for a U.S. visitor visa interview, ensuring a smooth and less stressful process.

The Essential Checklist

When preparing for your visitor visa interview, having a complete set of documents is crucial. Each piece of paper acts as a puzzle piece in the larger picture of your travel story, showcasing your intent and readiness to abide by U.S. immigration laws.

• Passport : An up-to-date passport, valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States, is the first essential document you’ll need.
• Application Form Confirmation : You must fill out the DS-160, the online nonimmigrant visa application form. Once submitted, print and bring the confirmation page with the barcode.
• Interview Appointment Letter : Your appointment letter confirms the time and date of your scheduled interview at the consulate or embassy.
• Photograph : Bring a photograph in the format specified in the photograph requirements for visa applications. It’s also wise to upload a digital photo while filling out your DS-160 form.
• Visa Fees Receipt : Proof that you’ve paid the visa application fee is mandatory to show that your application has been processed.

Financial and Employment Documentation

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Illustrating that you have strong ties to your home country and the means to support yourself financially during your U.S. visit is essential. For this, prepare to show:

• Bank Statements : Recent bank statements that reflect a stable financial history.
• Employment Verification : A letter from your employer outlining your position, salary, the tenure of employment, and the vacation time approved for your trip can be very persuasive.

Additional Supporting Documents

The following documents may not be mandatory but can bolster your application:

• Travel Itinerary : If you have already planned your trip, present your travel itinerary including flight reservations, hotel bookings, or a letter from a sponsoring friend or family member in the U.S.
• Invitation Letter : If visiting friends or family, an invitation letter can be helpful. This should include the host’s contact information, relationship to the applicant, and details about the visit.
• Property or Business Ownership : Documents that show property or business ownership in your home country signify strong social and economic ties, increasing the credibility of your intent to return home.

For Specific Visitor Visa Types

• B1 Applicants : If you’re applying as a business visitor, include documents such as an invitation from the U.S. company you’ll be visiting, a letter from your employer, and business records to establish the purpose of your trip.
• B2 Applicants : For those visiting for tourism or medical reasons, bring letters from doctors, event information, or any other evidence that supports the purpose of your trip.

Preparing for the Interview

Arriving well-prepared for your visa interview is half the battle won. Organize your documents in an accessible manner and familiarize yourself with their content so you can present them confidently when requested. Remember, the consulate or embassy officers see numerous applicants daily, so making their job easy can leave a positive impact.

External resources for additional guidance are your allies. You can find comprehensive information and updates on the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs website. This site is an invaluable resource, providing the latest on visa policies and procedures.

In Conclusion

Obtaining a U.S. visitor visa is a process that demands careful attention to detail. By compiling and presenting the above documents clearly and coherently, your visa interview should progress more smoothly. Remember, the intent of these documents is to answer two key questions for the consular officer: “What is the purpose of your visit?” and “Will you return home after your trip?” Adequately addressing these points can effectively move you towards a successful visa interview outcome, allowing you to embark on your U.S. adventure.

So, there you have it – the essential checklist for your U.S. visitor visa interview! Remember, don’t let the process stress you out. Just gather those puzzle pieces – passport, confirmation form, appointment letter, photograph, and visa fee receipt – and you’ll be well on your way. And hey, if you want more insider tips and guidance, check out visaverge.com. Happy travels, my friend!

FAQ’s to know:

FAQ 1: What documents are required for a U.S. visitor visa interview?

Answer: The essential documents for a U.S. visitor visa interview include a valid passport, the DS-160 application form confirmation, the interview appointment letter, a photograph meeting the specified requirements, and proof of having paid the visa application fee. Additionally, it is important to provide financial and employment documentation such as recent bank statements and an employment verification letter. While not mandatory, additional supporting documents such as a travel itinerary, invitation letter, and evidence of property or business ownership can strengthen your application.

FAQ 2: What should B1 visa applicants bring to the U.S. visitor visa interview?

Answer: B1 visa applicants, who are applying as business visitors, should bring specific documents to their U.S. visitor visa interview. These include an invitation letter from the U.S. company they will be visiting, a letter from their employer stating their position, salary, employment tenure, and approved vacation time for the trip. Additionally, presenting any relevant business records that establish the purpose of the trip can be beneficial.

FAQ 3: What is the importance of preparing for a U.S. visitor visa interview?

Answer: Preparing for a U.S. visitor visa interview is crucial to increase the chances of a successful outcome. By organizing your documents in an accessible manner and familiarizing yourself with their content, you can confidently present them when requested. Consulate or embassy officers process numerous applications daily, so making their job easier by being prepared can leave a positive impact. Utilizing external resources, such as the U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs website, can provide comprehensive information and updates on visa policies and procedures to further assist in preparation.

What did you learn? Answer below to know:

• True/False: A valid passport is not necessary when applying for a visitor visa to the United States.
• Multiple Choice: Which of the following documents is considered essential for a U.S. visitor visa interview? a) Bank statements b) Travel itinerary c) Employment verification letter d) All of the above
• Short Answer: What are the two key questions the consular officer aims to answer during a U.S. visitor visa interview?

Did you Know?

Did You Know?

• False. A valid passport is the first essential document required for a U.S. visitor visa. It must be up-to-date and valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the United States.
• d) All of the above. Essential documents for a U.S. visitor visa interview include a valid passport, the DS-160 application form confirmation, the interview appointment letter, a photograph meeting the specified requirements, and proof of having paid the visa application fee. Additionally, financial and employment documentation, as well as additional supporting documents like a travel itinerary, invitation letter, and evidence of property or business ownership, can strengthen your application.
• “What is the purpose of your visit?”
• “Will you return home after your trip?”
• Did you know that the United States has a program called Diversity Visa Lottery? This program awards permanent residence status to 50,000 applicants from countries with low immigration rates to the U.S. each year. The program aims to promote diversity and increase the multicultural fabric of the United States.

Did you know that Ellis Island in New York Harbor was the primary immigration station for immigrants coming to the United States from 1892 to 1954? Over 12 million immigrants were processed at Ellis Island during this time, making it a symbol of hope and opportunity for people seeking a better life in America.

Did you know that the United States has implemented various immigration laws throughout history? One notable law is the Chinese Exclusion Act of 1882, which was the first major law restricting immigration based on ethnicity. It prohibited the immigration of Chinese laborers, leading to a significant decrease in Chinese immigration to the United States for several decades.

Did you know that Angel Island, located in San Francisco Bay, served as an immigration station for Asian immigrants entering the United States from 1910 to 1940? Often referred to as the “Ellis Island of the West,” Angel Island processed hundreds of thousands of immigrants, primarily from China and other Asian countries. Many immigrants were detained for long periods, undergoing extensive questioning and medical examinations.

Did you know that the Statue of Liberty, a famous symbol of freedom and immigration, was a gift from France to the United States? It was dedicated in 1886 and has served as a welcoming symbol for immigrants arriving in New York City. The statue’s official name is “Liberty Enlightening the World.”

Did you know that naturalization is the process through which foreign nationals become U.S. citizens? To qualify for naturalization, applicants must meet certain requirements, including residency, language proficiency, and knowledge of U.S. history and government. Once naturalized, individuals have the same rights and responsibilities as those who were born in the United States.

Did you know that the United States has a refugee resettlement program? The U.S. Refugee Admissions Program provides protection, support, and assistance to individuals fleeing persecution in their home countries. Refugees undergo a rigorous vetting process before being resettled in the United States, and they have the opportunity to rebuild their lives and contribute to their new communities.

Remember, immigration is a complex and multifaceted topic with many intriguing aspects to explore. These facts provide just a glimpse into the diverse history and processes surrounding immigration to the United States.

Learn Today: Key Terms Explained

Glossary or Definitions:

B1/B2 Visitor Visa: The B1/B2 visitor visa is a nonimmigrant visa category that allows individuals to enter the United States for temporary visits for either business (B1) or tourism (B2) purposes. It is commonly used for activities such as attending conferences, meetings, or exploring tourist attractions.

Embassy: An embassy is a diplomatic mission of one country in another. In the context of immigration, the embassy is responsible for processing visa applications, conducting interviews, and making decisions on visa approvals.

DS-160: The DS-160 is an online nonimmigrant visa application form required for most U.S. visa categories, including the B1/B2 visitor visa. It collects personal information and details about the purpose of the visit.

Financial Documentation: Financial documentation refers to the documents that demonstrate an applicant’s ability to financially support themselves during their visit to the United States. This may include bank statements, employment verification, or any other evidence of stable financial history.

Employment Verification: Employment verification is a document provided by an applicant’s employer that confirms their position, salary, employment tenure, and approved vacation time for the trip. It helps establish the purpose of the visit and the applicant’s ties to their home country.

Supporting Documents: Supporting documents are additional documents that are not mandatory but can strengthen an applicant’s visa application. Examples include a travel itinerary, invitation letter, or proof of property or business ownership.

Consulate: A consulate is a smaller diplomatic mission of a country located in a different city or region within another country. It typically serves the same functions as an embassy, including visa processing and interviews.

Visa Application Fee: The visa application fee is a mandatory payment made by visa applicants to cover the processing costs for their visa application. It serves as proof that the application has been processed.

Interview Appointment Letter: The interview appointment letter is a document that confirms the date and time of an applicant’s scheduled interview at the U.S. embassy or consulate.

U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs: The U.S. Department of State – Bureau of Consular Affairs is a government agency responsible for overseeing the visa application process , providing information on visa policies and procedures, and issuing visas. Their website is a valuable resource for visa applicants.

Business Visitor (B1) : B1 visa applicants are individuals who visit the United States for business purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations. They must provide specific documents, such as an invitation letter from a U.S. company they will be visiting and business records, to establish the purpose of their trip.

Tourism Visitor (B2): B2 visa applicants are individuals who visit the United States for tourism or medical reasons. They may need to provide supporting documents like letters from doctors, event information, or any other evidence that supports the purpose of their trip.

Intent to Return Home: The consular officer aims to determine whether the applicant has a genuine intent to return to their home country after their visit to the United States. This is assessed based on the purpose of the visit, financial stability, and ties to the home country.

Passport: A passport is an official government-issued travel document that serves as identification and allows an individual to travel internationally. It must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay in the United States.

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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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• List of Documents Required for USA Visitor Visa From India

What Are The Documents Required For USA Visitor Visa From India?

Updated On Oct 23, 2023

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Table of Contents [ Show ]

1. Mandatory Documents for a US Visit Visa

2. supporting documents based on your tourist visa type, 3. documents required for your b1/b2 visa interview, 4. documents for the visit purpose proof, 5. if visiting for medical treatment, 6. documents for intent to depart from the usa at the end of the trip, how to prove your financial stability, documents required for renewal of usa visitor visa from india.

Are you all set for your exciting journey to the United States? Well, when it comes to applying for a USA visitor visa, having all the documents required for a visitor visa to the USA from India is absolutely essential.

Missing even one crucial piece of paperwork could lead to your visa being denied. So, let's go through the checklist of the important types of documents required for a tourist visa USA you'll need to prepare for your US visitor visa application.

Documents Required for USA Visitor Visa from India

What do you believe are the different Visitor Visa for USA documents required for your successful visa application? Let’s find out…

The set of essential documents required for a tourist visa to the USA from India that every US tourist visa applicant must provide:

• Valid Passport: Make sure your passport is up-to-date with plenty of blank pages.
• Travel Itinerary: Have a clear plan for your trip, including your intended dates of travel and the places you plan to visit.
• Dates of Your Last 5 Visits to the USA: If you've been to the US before, you'll need this information.
• Resume or CV: Prepare a document outlining your professional history.
• Photograph (as per specifications): Ensure your photo meets the official requirements.

Moving to the next let us find out what supporting documents are required for a USA visitor visa.

Now, the documents you need can vary depending on your specific purpose for visiting the USA like for tourism, medical assistance, etc, one by one let us learn the individual requirements as per the purpose of visit:

• For Tourism & Pleasure
• Proof of Funds for Expenses in the USA: This includes bank statements, passbook copies, and information on fixed deposits and mutual funds.
• Travel Itinerary
• 1-Year-Old Income Tax Returns (ITR)
• Business Card (if applicable)
• For Visiting Family or Attending Family Events
• Letter of Invitation from a Family Member or Event Host
• Event Invitation Proof
• For Spouse (B-1) or Children Requesting Dependent Visa (B-2)
• Copy of B-1 Visa and Passport (if pending, apply for it)
• Letter of Invitation from the B-1 Visa Holder
• Letter to Embassy Consulate Requesting Visa for Spouse or Children
• Letter from the Company Stating the B-1 Visa Holder's Ability to Care for Dependents
• Proof of Funds for Expenses and a Sponsorship Letter

Now that you are well-versed with the documents required for a visitor visa to the USA from India. Next in the row is to identify which documents you would need to carry for your interview with the US consulate.

Please note that the original documents are crucial for your visa interview at the US consulate general, these include:

• Valid Passport
• Photograph (as per specifications)
• Visa Application Form DS 160
• Visa Fee Payment Receipt
• US Visa Appointment Letter PrintOut
• Supporting Documents Based on Your Visit Purpose

We agree that you are aiming to apply for a USA visitor visa for the purpose of family visits or for travel and tourism, etc. Hence what are the specific documents that would support your claim for the travel purpose? This category varies based on your visa type:

• To and From Flight Tickets
• Accommodation Details
• Invitation Letter from Friends or Family (if applicable)
• Information on US-Based Business Associates and Your Business Card (for business visits)
• Proof of Event, Invitation Card, and Brochure (if attending an event)

Are you flying to the USA to avail better medical facilities? In such a case for medical treatment, you'll need three specific documents:

• Medical Diagnosis from a Local Physician
• Letter from the US Medical Facility or Physician
• Proof of Payment in the US for Transportation, Medical, and Living Expenses

Last but not least, how would you justify your intent to return to your origin country before the US consulate? To solve your this query explore the next section for the list of documents that would suffice your claim and intent to return

How do you prove your intent to return back? Well, since proving your intention to return home after your visit is important you'll need documents like:

• Employment Letter from Your Home Country
• Family Ties Proof (Birth Certificates, Property Documents, etc.)

Irrespective of the visa type it is crucial to meet the financial requirements (proof of funds) set for the specific immigration or travel criteria. The documents you could include as financial proof for paying for your stay in the USA and to demonstrate your ability to cover your expenses in the US are as follows:

• One or More Past Year Income Tax Returns
• Recent Bank Statements
• Proof of Visitor Health Insurance

When renewing your USA visitor visa from India, you'll need a specific set of documents to support your application. Here's a list of the typical documents required for the renewal of a US visitor visa:

• Current, Valid Passport
• Previous US Visa
• DS-160 Confirmation Page
• Passport-Size Photos
• Visa Renewal Application Fee Payment Receipt
• I-797 Approval Notice (if applicable)
• Current Visa Renewal Appointment Confirmation Letter
• Old Passport with Previous US Visa (if applicable)
• I-20 Form (for F-1 visa holders) or DS-2019 Form (for J-1 visa holders)
• SEVIS Fee Receipt
• Financial Documentation
• Proof of Ties to India
• Letter of Intent
• Other Supporting Documents
• Police Clearance Certificate (if required)
• Medical Examination Results (if required)

Seek GetGIS for the Right Guidance to Documentation Requirements as per Your Visa Type

As part of the visa application journey, it is crucial to note that it's not just about having the right documents, rather it's also about presenting them accurately and honestly. Have more queries on How and What regarding your abroad visa application process, GetGIS is at your disposal.

Our Immigration experts ensure that you just not have to rush through your application journey but rather ensure that you are well prepared, informed, and most importantly have the seamless experience, that any other could provide you with.

Ensure to double-check everything, and good luck with your USA visitor visa application! Safe travels await you

Useful Links:

• Everything You Need to Know About Intakes in USA
• Scholarship for Indian Students in USA: All You Need to Know
• Cost of Study in the USA for International Students in 2023
• Average Cost of Living in the USA for Students & Immigrants

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a USA visitor visa?

What are the main types of USA visitor visas?

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

Can I extend my visitor visa to the USA?

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What are the common reasons for visa denials?

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Lakshmi Lavanya Pagallu has been working as Content Marketing Specialist with GetGIS since 2022 and has been extensively working to help candidates’ career transitions. Her experience spans across multiple industries in the fields of Sales and Marketing. Her core competencies include communication and research, which enable her to create and deliver in-depth guides as a Subject Matter Expert

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US announes a change in visitor visa process

T he US Embassy in India has made changes to its visa appointment procedures, particularly concerning B-1/B-2 interview waiver appointments in New Delhi. On a post on X, the US Embassy in India said, that B-1/B-2 interview waiver appointments will now be consolidated in New Delhi.

Nonimmigrant B-1/B-2 visitor visas are available for those who want to briefly enter the United States for tourism (visa category B-2), business (visa category B-1), or a mix of both (visa category B-1/B-2).

Applicants can still submit their application forms at any of the five Visa Application Centers free of cost. Alternatively, they have the option to drop their documents at any US Document Dropoff Center in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Cochin, Jalandhar, or Pune for a fee of 850 rupees per application.

In a statement, the Embassy explained, "Planning to book a visitor visa appointment using our convenient interview waiver process? You might notice something new. As part of our continuing effort to streamline visa processing, we've consolidated B-1/B-2 interview waiver appointments in New Delhi going forward."

The Embassy assured that interview waiver appointments will be readily available in New Delhi for eligible applicants seeking a visitor visa. However, due to this consolidation, limited interview waiver appointments will be available for visitor visas in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai. Nevertheless, applicants need not worry as appointments remain accessible in New Delhi for those eligible for the interview waiver process.

The Embassy clarified, "You will not be required to travel to New Delhi unless you are later found ineligible to use the interview waiver process."

Highlighting the surge in visa processing, the US Consular Team in India processed a record 1.4 million US visas in 2023, marking a significant increase. This achievement has led to a reduction of visitor visa appointment wait times by 75 percent.

Furthermore, the Embassy and Consulates in India emphasized the growing number of Indian visa applicants, stating, "In 2023, the US Embassy and Consulates in India processed a record-smashing 1.4 million US visas. Demand across all visa classes was unprecedented, with a 60 percent increase in applications compared to 2022. Indians now represent one out of every ten US visa applicants around the world."

Visitor visas (B-1/B-2) have rebounded, constituting the second-highest number of applications in the US Mission's history, exceeding 700,000. Improved processes and increased staffing have significantly reduced appointment wait times for visitor visas from an average of 1,000 days to just 250 days nationwide, with minimal wait times across all categories.

For more news like this visit The Economic Times .

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

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

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

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

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

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

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How Long Does It Take to Get a Chinese Visa?   

By: Paul Buckley

January 23, 2024

Travelers planning trips to China often ask how long it takes to get a Chinese visa. As of November 14, 2023, the average processing time for a Chinese visa application was approximately eight business days. 

However, various factors, such as seasonality, application volume, and the specific type of visa, can affect this timeframe. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, travelers should consult CIBTvisas' Check Requirements page. 

While the average processing time is eight days, external factors may extend processing times by five to seven working days. For a small fee, CIBT's expedited service can shorten this period to four to seven working days. 

Applying early will accommodate any unforeseen delays. Travelers should request their China visa at least one or two months before departure.  

Do US citizens need a visa for China? 

Yes, all US citizens must have a visa to enter China. The type of visa required depends on the purpose of the visit. The Chinese government has strict rules regarding visa validity on entry and exit.  

As the US Department of State advises : 

US citizens must have a valid visa to exit China and must leave China before their authorized visa expires. 

You may apply for a visa extension from the local Entry-Exit Bureau of the Chinese government. However, you must do so before leaving China. These requests take time, so applications should be filed well ahead of your visa's expiration. 

After you enter China, you must register your stay within 24 hours of arrival. Failure to do so can result in fines and deportation. Travelers can register with hotel staff or the local police station.  

Foreigners must always carry their passports, visas, or residence permits under local regulations. 

Several people can check your visa, including the police, school administrators, transportation officials, and hotel staff.  

The Chinese government strictly enforces restrictions on activities allowed by particular visa classes and entry and exit requirements. 

Staying in China on an expired visa could lead to fines, imprisonment, and deportation. 

The Chinese government permits 144-hour visa-free transit for 20 cities in mainland China, including Beijing, Shanghai, Guangzhou, Chengdu, Hangzhou, Nanjing, and Shenzhen. Seventy-two-hour visa-free transit is permitted in Guilin, Harbin, and Changsha. Most cities in China offer 24-hour visa-free transit for international travelers. 

Visa-free transit applies only to the transit city. It does not allow travel outside the city, regardless of the permit’s duration.  

Types of Chinese visas available for US citizens 

There are several types of Chinese visas. Categories L/M/Z/X/G are most commonly used by US citizens.  

How does a US citizen get a visa to enter China? 

On their own, US citizens can apply for a Chinese visa through multiple channels with the Chinese embassy, consulate, or online application forms. 

The Chinese visa-application process includes some complex requirements and supporting documents. Errors in your visa application can lead to delays or denial. To avoid these complications, travelers can also apply via CIBT . 

Appointment-based system and processing times 

The Chinese consulate general uses an appointment-based system for visa submissions. After you have submitted the application and your documents are approved, CIBTvisas will schedule your appointment at a convenient time. 

Because of limited availability, the waiting time for an appointment can take up to 30 business days. The visa processing time referenced here is how long you must wait to receive the visa after your appointment. Travelers should factor in this additional appointment time requirement when requesting a visa for China. 

Ten-year visa issued before March 28, 2020 

With the lifting of COVID-19 restrictions, travelers can once again use a China 10-year visa issued before March 28, 2020. However, if you have changed your name since obtaining the visa, it is no longer valid—all Chinese visas must match the name on your passport, so you'll need to apply for a new one.  

Requirements for select US citizens born abroad  

US citizens born in certain countries who plan to enter China with an American passport must appear at the same embassy or consulate for their China visa application. These countries are Afghanistan, Cameroon, Iraq, Iran, Pakistan, Nigeria, Tunisia, Turkey, and Syria. CIBTvisas cannot assist with this particular visa request. 

Requirements for US citizens with criminal records 

Travelers with criminal records who want to apply for a China visa must appear at the consulate to provide biometrics.  

Limited-validity second passports 

Limited-validity second passports are not accepted for the China visa application process. 

Express service: China visa application 

Express processing options are available for Chinese visas through CIBTvisas for an additional fee. 

What is the fastest way to get a visa for China? 

The fastest way to get a Chinese visa is by opting for expedited processing service, which can process your visa within five to seven working days. Always ensure your application is complete and accurate to avoid delays. 

What are the requirements for a Chinese visa for US citizens? 

US citizens must submit documentation relevant to their visa type along with the completed visa application form. Required documents include the applicant's passport, valid for at least six months, a recent photo, a travel itinerary, and an invitation.  

Be prepared for a successful trip with CIBTvisas 

Navigating the visa-application process for China requires careful management of requirements. Travelers can ensure a smooth application process by staying informed, planning, and getting sound advice on their visa applications and needs.  

Remember to verify all information with official resources and begin your application on time before your trip. An experienced visa specialist can help you navigate the complexities of border-crossing requirements. Contact CIBTvisas to learn more today.    

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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.

What are you looking for?

• International Students
• F-1 and J-1 Visas

Financial Documentation Requirements

Requirements for international student proof of funding.

Per U.S. immigration regulations, all international students intending to study on F-1 or J-1 visa status are required to demonstrate proof of their ability to pay for their education and living expenses in the United States.

Before an I-20 or DS-2019 can be issued, USC requires a financial statement demonstrating proof of funding. If you are applying to a graduate program, it is not necessary to submit proof of financial support or passport copies to be considered for admission to USC. Documents can be submitted after an admission decision has been reached and you have committed to attend USC.

If you are applying for an undergraduate program, proof of financial support is required to be considered for admission to USC.

Cost Requirements for I-20 Program

To determine your I-20/DS-2019 cost requirements, please find your program, by degree level, in the drop-down below. These amounts cover estimated, average program expenses and living expenses for one year, as determined by the USC Financial Aid Office.

Please Note: These numbers are for immigration purposes only. They should not be considered a bill of expense for your program. Your actual expenses may vary based on course load, living situation, special fees, lifestyle, etc.

Regardless of your actual expenses, the I-20/DS-2019 costs below cannot be negotiated. For example, you may not subtract living costs if you intend to live with a relative in Los Angeles. For questions about your degree program’s curriculum, units, classes, fees, etc. please contact the admission office of your program.

PhD/Doctoral Applicants: Since USC provides funding to the majority of PhD candidates, PhD applicants do not need to submit a personal financial statement, unless the university has confirmed that no funding will be provided.

J-1 Students Only: Before the Office of Admission can issue a DS-2019, you must provide proof that the majority of your funding is sponsored by a government, university, or other major international organization. Personal funds may not be used unless you have dependent expenses not covered by your scholarship.

If you have dependents (a legal spouse or child) who will apply for F-2/J-2 visas, you must be able to provide an additional $14,253 for your spouse and $7,127 for each child.

Program Cost by Degree Level

What is an acceptable financial document.

Please visit our USC Guidelines for Acceptable Financial Support Documentation for more information.

How to Submit Your Documents

Undergrad uate students: You must submit your documents when you apply for admission. Please submit them with the Common Application .

Grad uate students: We will require financial documentation only if you are admitted to and choose to attend USC. Financial documents for graduate student s are not required or accepted when you apply for admission. Please do not send any financial documents while your application is under consideration, as they will not be reviewed.

Admitted students who have committed to attend USC can log in to Trojan International to:

1) Submit their financial statement.

2) Submit their passport copy.

3) Request their I-20.

Please log in with your USC NetID and click on the “Admission” menu to proceed. We also recommend reading the Trojan International Checklist beforehand for guidelines on how to prepare your passport and financial documents.