Which Visa for Parents Visiting US – 10 Facts
One of the most puzzling questions people have after they have established themselves in the United States is how to get their parents to visit them and see their progress in life. The key challenges and questions that cloud most people revolve around how to start the process, the type of visa to apply for and the requirements for the process. The visa process is always challenging if you are not familiar with the process. If you are one of those people, myvisasolutions.com highlights the following tips to help you and see you through a successful visa application process for parents.
1. Type of Visa
Visiting parents would require to get themselves a B2 Visitor Visa. It is a nonimmigrant visa issued to persons who want to visit the United States on a temporary basis, usually for unofficial visits and non-work related purposes. This type of visa is for a particular purpose only like visiting family and the person granted this should not be involved in any other engagements like studying, work or conducting businesses. The duration of the visa validity period can be as long as six months. They determine the lifetime of the visa upon arrival at the port of entry. One can request and apply for an extension in case one intends to extend their visit.
2. Familiarize yourself with the visa process
It is good practice to familiarize yourself with the B2 Visa application process before commencing. It will help guide you through the process by knowing what to expect at every stage. It, also, helps you to get ready and equipped with all the possible requirements for a smooth visa application process.
3. Pay the application fee
The first step to getting started is paying the visa application fee. For all types of visas to be processed, one has to pay an application fee to the United States embassy, and the B-2 Visa is not an exception. You can check the amount you are subject to pay from the embassy website and settle the amount before scheduling an appointment with the embassy.
4. Have all the documents set
There are several requirements needed for the application process to be successful. The first step usually is to submit a digital photograph of the parent visitor. The other important document in the application process is the DS-160. The form should be answered correctly, completely and truthfully. The questions are pretty straightforward and self-explanatory. Hence you should strive to be as accurate as possible.
5. Schedule a visa interview
Determine the consulate you are supposed to schedule your interview with and make sure you apply for the same as early as possible. The advantage of working ahead of time is that you get the chance to work around any challenge that may arise in the process and get your visa before your scheduled travel time. You can also schedule the interview online.
6. Fingerprinting and biometrics check
One of the most crucial steps in the visa application process is the fingerprint and biometrics check. You have to make an appointment with the US embassy for this process before your interview with the consulate. One cannot undertake this on the same day as the interview. You, therefore, have to be keen with the timing.
7. Get ready for the interview with the consulate
When presenting yourself for the interview, you will need to have your DS-160 confirmation letter with you, a passport photo, your passport that should have a minimum validity of 6 months, receipts for the application payment fees and confirmation letter for the appointment. These are the necessary documents required, although they may ask you for bank books and employment certificate. During the interview, answer the questions directed to you truthfully. Be brief, detailed and only respond to the questions posed.
8. Invitation letter
The person to be visited in the United States by their parent has to send an invitation letter to their parents indicating that they have invited them over. The letter provides support for your parent from a legal point and shows that you are sponsoring the visit. The invitation letter is usually crucial for the approval as it provides assurance that the parents are only going for a visit and not for other reasons like working, business or studies.
9. Employ services of a legal professional
The visa application process has so many hurdles which complicate the process. In as much as you can complete a successful visa application on your own, it is always a good idea to employ the services of a legal professional who is conversant with this process. A legal professional will help you get all the supporting documents required and fill the application correctly. With a legal expert, the chances of approval of your visa petition will increase immensely.
10. Keep dates in mind
The ultimate point of reference is the travel date. Everything has to be ready before that day arrives. As such, you should be keen in observing the dates scheduled for the various appointments. Missing an appointment could cost you your visa approval.