How do I sponsor someone to visit the US?
Asked by: Moshe Kilback | Last update: October 13, 2023Score: 4.1/5 (15 votes)
Both U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents may start the sponsorship process by filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. Although there are additional forms along the way, this is how the process begins.
Can a US citizen sponsor a friend to visit USA?
Apr 25, 2023
If you'd like a family member or friend abroad to come visit you in the U.S., you may be wondering if you can apply for a B-1/B-2 travel visa for them. The short answer is no, you cannot apply for a B-1/B-2 visa on behalf of someone else.
How do you sponsor someone for a visit?
Form I-134 is what you need to submit to obtain a visitor's visa. Known as the Affidavit of Support, this is an 8-page document with six pages of instructions. This serves as evidence of your income and certifies that you're in a financially healthy condition to support your visitors.
Who can you sponsor to come to the US?
Generally, U.S. citizens or permanent residents file an immigrant visa petition on behalf of a close relative. US citizens can sponsor their parents, spouse, sons and daughters (minors and adults, unmarried or married), and siblings.
How much does it cost to sponsor a visa?
Non-immigrant sponsorships are temporary, while immigrant sponsorships can lead to permanent residency. The cost of sponsorship can range from $4,000 to $9,000, depending on factors like company size. The duration of sponsorship varies based on the type of visa, ranging from one to ten years with possible extensions.
U.S. Immigration Law : How to Sponsor Someone to Visit the U.S.A
What documents do I need to invite someone to the USA?
- Scanned copy of host's ID or passport.
- Evidence of means of financial subsistence.
- Proof of homeownership or rental contract.
- An itinerary of the planned visit.
- Documentation of the host's time off from work for the visit.
How much bank balance is required for US tourist visa?
The US government mentions no specific minimum balance. However, it is essential to demonstrate sufficient funds. The fund will help you cover the expenses, including travel, accommodation, daily living costs, etc. Consider the duration of stay, planned activities, and personal circumstances while estimating the cost.
How much money do I need to sponsor someone?
How much does sponsoring an immigrant cost? There are essentially no costs for sponsoring an immigrant to the U.S. Any sponsor would have to file Form I-864 which is free of charge. However, some sponsors choose to pay for the entire immigration process, which can be costly and add up anywhere from $1,000 to $2,000.
How do I invite someone to a tourist visa?
- Name and contact information for the host.
- Host's immigration status (for example, “U.S. citizen”)
- Relationship between the host and the visa applicant.
- Visa applicant's full name and address.
- Purpose of the trip.
How long does it take to sponsor someone to US?
US Family Sponsorship Processing Time
The processing time for your I-130 petition usually will take anywhere from 5-19 months. This will depend on the family relationship and the USCIS field office that receives your form.
How do I sponsor a non family member to the US?
You can sponsor your friend's immigration petition financially. Being a financial sponsor to an immigrant can make a big difference to their application and can be the difference between being approved or rejected. You can sponsor your friend financially by providing a Form I-864, Affidavit of Support.
What documents are needed for sponsorship?
- A signed letter by the sponsor.
- A scanned copy of the sponsor's ID or passport.
- Documents stating the sponsor's finances.
- Proof of address.
Does U.S. visitor visa need a sponsor?
The B-2 visa may be issued in either single entry or multiple entry formats. The B-2 visa may also be issued for a limited time frame or on an indefinite basis. No Sponsor Required: Any foreign person may file an application for a B-2 tourist visa without the necessity of a United States sponsor.
Can a green card holder invite a friend to visit USA?
If you are a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident, and you have a friend or relative who seeks to come to the U.S. as a tourist (on a B-2 visitor visa), you might be able to help the person by providing a letter of invitation.
Can you sponsor a non relative to US?
You don't have to be a relative to be someone's financial sponsor. So, a friend can become a financial sponsor. However, the person must still have someone else who acts as the sponsor or their visa or green card application. That sponsor must be an employee, relative, or fiancé(e).
How many people can I sponsor to come to the US?
While there are no numerical limits for sponsors, U.S. citizens and legal residents can only sponsor limited classes of close relatives. Permanent legal residents can sponsor spouses and unmarried children, including adult unmarried children, those defined as over 21.
How do I prove my income to sponsor an immigrant?
Form W2s are available from your employer. What if I am self-employed or work as an independent contractor, and do not have Form W2? You can use a Tax Return Transcript to prove income. For independent contractors, IRS Form 1099 is also acceptable as proof of income.
What is proof of funds for US tourist visa?
Bank statement of last 6 months with sufficient balance; updated and attested. Income Tax Returns/Form 16 for last 3 years. Travel Itinerary explaining the trip. Leave sanctioned certificate, Last 3 months salary slip, Company Visiting card (If employed)
What is financial proof for US tourist visa?
Visa applicants must also present additional documents at the visa interview, which must be prepared in advance. These documents include bank statements, visa application fee payment receipts, invitation letters, a NOC from the current employer and a valid passport.
How long can you stay in US on tourist visa?
How Long Can I Stay In The United States On A Tourist Visa? Aliens can only stay on a tourist visa in the United States for a maximum period of up to 180 days or 6 months.
Do visa invitation letters need to be notarized?
Almost always, visa offices require that letters of invitation be notarized by a Notary Public. For your convenience, please find below a free sample letter of invitation you can modify to suit your particular situation. Please note: A letter of invitation does not guarantee issuance of a visa.
How do I write a sponsorship letter for US visa?
The do's and don't of writing a visa sponsorship letter
DO state whether you are a US citizen or legal resident. DO state your relationship to the applicant. DO write the reason for the applicant's visit, including the duration of their stay. DO have someone proofread your letter to make sure there are no errors.
How much is a B2 visa?
How Much is a B2 visa? A B2 visa cost USD $188.99 (service fees included) for standard processing. Rush and Super Rush B2 processing options are available for a higher fee. You can start your B2 visa application online.