US Visa for Visiting Relatives in USA: Latest Policies

The growing interest in visiting family and friends abroad has made understanding visa procedures more important than ever. Being well-prepared can make the process smoother.

In this article, Thao & Co. explains how to get a US visa for visiting relatives, covering:

1. • Key requirements
2. • Necessary documents
3. • Visa interview tips

How to get a US visa for visiting relatives?

If you’re traveling to reconnect with loved ones, you’ll typically need a non-immigrant visitor visa, also known as B2 visa for visiting family. This visa is designed for individuals planning short-term stays for tourism, family visits, or similar purposes.

The standard B2 visa allows for a maximum stay of up to 6 months. However, the exact duration is determined by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services based on your application and travel plans.

Related article: US tourist visas B-1 vs. B-2

US visa for visiting relatives: Eligibility criteria

To get a US visa for vising relatives and family members, you must meet the following requirements:

1. • Proof of a legitimate family connection in the US: You’ll need evidence of your relationship with the person you’re visiting, whether they’re a US citizen, permanent resident, or legal worker in the US.

1. • Clear travel intentions: Prove that your trip is for visiting loved ones, with no intention of overstaying or violating visa conditions.

1. • Strong financial standing: Demonstrating your ability to cover all travel expenses independently is critical, as it shows you won’t require assistance from the US government during your stay.

1. • Ties to your home country: You must provide evidence of strong ties – such as employment, property, or family obligations – that ensure you’ll return home after your visit.

Find out more: Financial requirements for US tourist visa: How much is enough?

B2 visa for visiting family: Documentation checklist

To ensure a smooth visa application process, it’s important to carefully prepare your documents. Here’s a breakdown of what you’ll need to prepare:

1. Personal identification documents:

1. • Completed DS-160 visa application form with a confirmation page and barcode
2. • Recent passport-sized photo (white background, taken within the past 6 months)
3. • Valid passport (with at least 6 months of validity remaining)
4. • Citizen ID card
5. • Birth certificate
6. • Marriage certificate (if applicable)
7. • Proof of residence
8. • Visa interview appointment confirmation
9. • Visa application fee receipt
10. • Proof of your relationship with the relative in the US: invitation letter, birth certificate, household registration, email exchanges, etc.

2. Financial and employment records:

1. • Proof of property ownership (e.g. real estate, vehicles)
2. • Bank statements from the past 3 months
3. • Account balance confirmations
4. • Employment contracts, pay stubs from the last 3 months, and an employer-approved leave letter.
5. • For business owners: business registration certificate and recent tax filings
6. • For retirees: pension statements and retirement documents

3. Proof of travel intentions:

1. • Detailed travel itinerary.
2. • Documentation proving your relationship with the family member in the US (e.g. family photos and documents)

4. Documents of your relative in the US:

1. • An invitation letter from your relative, clearly stating the purpose of the visit, duration, and any financial commitments they’re assuming
2. • Proof of your relative legal status: passport, green card, or work visa
3. • Your relative’s financial records, such as recent pay stubs, tax returns, or bank statements
4. • Documentation supporting the familial relationship: birth certificate, marriage certificate, etc.

When applying for a US visa to visit relatives, it is crucial to carefully prepare all documents. Ensure that non-English documents are accurately translated per the Consulate’s requirements.

For a flawless visa application, it’s crucial to work with a trusted translation company. With years of expertise, Thao & Co. is here to provide top-notch support for translating documents for visa applications to the US and other countries.

We offer professional certified translation services with speed and precision.

1. ✅ Experienced translators with extensive knowledge of visa applications
2. ✅ Translations of standard documents completed within 24 hours
3. ✅ Familiarity with visa application procedures and consulate requirements
4. ✅ Thao & Co.’s certificate of translation accuracy provided free of charge for added credibility
5. ✅ Comprehensive assistance for visa applications
6. ✅ Expert DS-160 form preparation service

We understand that translation is not just about linguistic accuracy. It must also meet the specific formatting and submission standards required by consulates and immigration authorities.

Contact Thao & Co. today for speedy and precise professional translation services!

Step-by-step guide to applying for a US visa for visiting relatives

Once your documents are ready, follow these steps to complete your US visitor visa application process:

1. Complete the DS-160 form: The DS-160 form is a mandatory online application form for non-immigrant visas. Visit ceac.state.gov to fill out and submit the form.

2. Paying the visa fee: The B2 visa fee can be paid online with a credit card or at designated payment locations. Keep the receipt as proof of payment. It’s required for the interview.

3. Schedule the visa interview: Visit www.ustraveldocs.com to schedule your interview. You’ll need the payment confirmation number to book an appointment.

4. Attending the interview: Bring all required documents, including your payment receipt and interview confirmation letter. Dress professionally and arrive early to complete the security checks.

5. Receive your visa result: If approved, your passport with the visa will typically be returned within 7 business days.

US visa for visiting relatives: visa interview tips

Here are some key strategies to increase your chances of approval:

1. • Prepare a complete and well-organized set of documents, including financial proof and evidence of your relationship with your relative in the US.
2. • Clearly outline your travel plans and demonstrate your ability to cover all expenses.
3. • Be confident, honest, and straightforward during the interview.
4. • Emphasize strong ties to your home country, such as employment, property, or family commitments, to assure the interview you’ll return after your trip.

For more tips, check out our guide on 15 Common Visa Interview Questions and Answers to ensure you’re fully prepared.

Key Takeaways

Applying for a US visa for visiting relatives requires meticulous preparation, from gathering documents to acing the interview. This guide has outlined everything you need to know to successfully apply for a B2 visa.

If you need help with translating documents or preparing your application, reach out to Thao & Co. for fast and efficient support.

We wish you a smooth and successful journey to visit your loved ones!