Planning Tips for Parents Visiting USA

Parents of individuals who are on H1b or F1 visa status can invite their relatives or parents to visit USA. As of current date, their parents can apply for a visitor B1/B2 Visa which is valid for a temporary visit. This tourist visa is typically issued for a validity of 10 years, with an option of multiple entry, although sometimes the validity might be for a lesser duration. They can stay for a maximum period of six months during each visit. The only way for them to be able to live permanently in the US is to become an immigrant with a green card.

Requirements to get a US Visitor Visa

A lot of planning is required before your parents board the flight to America. The two most important tips are meet the preconditions necessary before applying for a visitor visa for relatives or parents visiting USA are as below:

1. Parent’s Passport  - Your Parents must have a valid passport for at least 6 months. If your parents do not have a passport, then the first step is to apply for one. Nowadays there are Passport Seva Kendras set up in most cities and the process is very simple and usually takes 30 days. If you have an emergency you can apply in Tatkal quota and get it in 7 days.
2. Bank Statement -  This is very important for a person sponsoring a visa for parents visiting USA , So start saving as early as possible to show the required balance in the official bank statement to cover their expenses during their stay in US with you. You need to ask parents to visit their local bank branch and ask them for a bank verification letter or bank statement showing the current balance. Each bank will have their own format and will mention things like when the account was opened and the current bank balance.

Next Steps - Buy Airline Tickets and Visitor Insurance

With these two items ready, you can follow a step-by-step process to get a visitor or tourist visa for relatives or parents visiting USA at the US consulate. Once approved, shop around and buy their two-way air tickets along with return dates set. Don't forget that cost of health care is very high in the US,  review and buy a visitors insurance plan to cover sickness or injury outside India. Following these planning steps helps them spend a happy and memorable time with you during their visit to America.