A citizen of a foreign country who wants to travel to the United States must generally obtain a visa first. Visas are documents that often come in the form of a stamp or sticker in a passport and grant foreign nationals permission to travel to a country for a specific reason and duration. Many people in the United States want to help their loved ones visit from abroad, whether for a family reunion, special event, or just to spend some time together. You may be wondering whether you can sponsor your relative for their tourist visa. Understanding your legal rights and options is crucial, so continue reading and consult with a skilled Astoria immigration lawyer for more information today.
What is a Tourist Visa?
A tourist visa, officially referred to as a B-2 Visitor Visa, is a type of visa that allows a foreign national to enter the United States temporarily for tourism, family visits, or medical treatment. It is a non-immigrant visa, meaning that the visa holder must intend to return to their home country after their trip. It does not serve as a way to obtain lawful permanent resident status.
Examples of permitted activities with a B-2 visa include:
- Tourism
- Vacation
- Visits with friends and family
- Medical treatment
- Participation in certain social events
- Participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests (given that the participant is not paid for their participation)
- Enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree
Can I Sponsor a Relative for a Tourist Visa?
Relatives and employers can often “sponsor” foreign nationals for special visas or green cards in the United States. Sponsorship involves agreeing to financially support and take legal responsibility for an immigrant. The sponsor vouches for them, ensuring the government that they will not become a public charge and handling the necessary paperwork and fees for the visa application.
But can you sponsor your relative for a tourist visa? In a way, yes. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents cannot file a formal petition for a relative’s tourist visa in the way they would for an immigrant visa. However, you can informally sponsor a tourist visa by providing financial support and an invitation letter.
Write a letter explaining the purpose of the visit, your relationship, and your willingness to host or support the visitor. Form I-134, the Affidavit of Support, will demonstrate your financial ability to cover the visitor’s costs, though it is not technically required. You can also provide proof of your status, like a copy of your passport, green card, or visa, as well as evidence of your relationship through family photos, birth certificates, or marriage records.
Your relative will still have to qualify for the visa on their own, and “sponsoring” does not guarantee acceptance, but it can help their case. For more information, reach out to a skilled immigration lawyer today.
