invite letter for parents to visit usa

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U.S. Visa Invitation Letter Guide with Sample Letters

Learn how to write an invitation letter for a u.s. visa with detailed information and two sample invitation letters. get a u.s. visa invitation letter sample today..

Key Takeaways:

• Learn how to write a U.S. visa invitation letter with key components, formatting tips, and sample letters to help you craft your own.
• An invitation letter can be a useful piece of evidence for the U.S. Consulate, showing the visitor’s intent and reason to return.
• Include important details such as your full name, address, relationship with the visitor, purpose of visit, and your intention to cover expenses.

If you’re planning to invite friends or family to visit you in the United States, one of the requirements they may need to fulfill is obtaining a U.S. visa. As a part of this process, an invitation letter written by you can help establish the purpose of their visit. In this blog post, we’ll cover how to write an invitation letter for a U.S. visa and provide two sample invitation letters to help you craft your own.

Understanding the Importance of a U.S. Visa Invitation Letter

A U.S. Visa Invitation Letter is a personal document, and while it is not a mandatory requirement, it can be a useful piece of evidence that shows the U.S. Consulate that the visitor has a reason to return to their home country after visiting the United States. It can also explain why you are inviting them, which may help the consulate understand the visitor’s intent.

Key Components of an Invitation Letter

When writing a U.S. Visa Invitation Letter, it should include the following information:

• Your full name, date of birth, address and telephone number in the United States.
• Your occupation and your status in the United States.
• A clear statement of your relationship with the visiting individual.
• Detailed information on the planned visit including the purposes of traveling, where the visitor will stay, and how long the visit will last.
• Your intention to cover all living expenses, accommodation, and travel costs, if applicable.

It’s also helpful if the letter can include details such as:

• Your legal status in the U.S. (e.g., citizen, permanent resident).
• The visitor’s full name, date of birth, and their address and telephone number.

Remember to sign and date the letter. Attach any supporting documents, like a photocopy of your ID or passport, evidence of your status in the U.S., and proof of your relationship with the visitor.

Also of Interest:

H-1b visa processing times and fees chart, how much is the cost of h-1b application process, formatting the invitation letter.

The U.S. Visa Invitation Letter should be formal, yet personal. It usually does not need to be notarized, but it should be typed and printed on standard paper. The tone should be welcoming and warm, reflecting the personal nature of the invitation.

Sample Invitation Letter 1

Here is a simple sample of what an invitation letter might look like:

[Your Full Name] [Your Street Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Email Address] [Phone Number] [Date]

Consulate General of [Visitor’s Home Country] [Countries Consular Address]

Subject: Invitation for [Visitor’s Full Name], Passport No: [Visitor’s Passport Number]

Dear Consulate,

I, [Your Full Name], residing at [Your Address], am writing this letter to support the visa application of my [relationship, e.g., friend], [Visitor’s Full Name].

[Visitor’s Full Name] plans to visit the United States briefly for leisure and sightseeing purposes. During their stay, which we anticipate lasting from [arrival date] to [departure date], [he/she/they] will be staying with me at my home. The address is listed above. I will be taking time off work to show [him/her/them] around the city and ensure [he/she/they] experience the diverse cultural heritage of our country.

I am a [Your Occupation] and residing in the U.S. as a [Your Status, e.g., U.S. citizen/permanent resident]. I am providing this letter to attest to my intention to support [Visitor’s Full Name] during [his/her/their] visit. I will ensure to cover all expenses, including but not limited to boarding, food, and travel expenses within the U.S. during the duration of [his/her/their] stay.

Thank you for considering this application. Please feel free to contact me if any further information is required.

[Your Signature] [Typed Name]

Sample Invitation Letter 2

For a different scenario or relationship type, the letter might look slightly different:

[Your Full Name] [Your Occupation] [Your Address] [City, State, Zip Code] [Date]

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) [Service Center Address]

Subject: Invitation Letter for [Family Member’s Full Name]

Dear Sir/Madam,

I’m writing this letter to provide details regarding my invitation for [Family Member’s Full Name] to visit me in the United States.

My name is [Your Full Name], and I’m a [Your Status, e.g., legal permanent resident] working as a [Your Occupation] here in [City, State]. I live at the address above and have been a resident there for the past [number of years/months] years.

I would like to invite [Family Member’s Full Name], who is my [relationship, e.g., mother/father/sibling] to visit me in the United States for [length of the visit]. During their visit, they will be residing with me at my home.

It has been [number of years/months] years since we last saw each other, and this visit would mean a great deal to both of us. We plan to spend quality time and I will also take them to visit various tourist attractions such as [mention specific places or landmarks].

I will ensure that my [family member’s relationship] will have all the necessary care and resources at their disposal and am prepared to bear all the costs during their stay in the United States.

Attached are copies of documents proving my status in the United States and evidence of my financial ability to support this visit.

Please feel free to reach out to me for any further information or clarification needed to process this request.

Appreciatively,

[Your Signature] [Your Full Name]

When sending the invitation letter, it’s advised to include it with the rest of the applicant’s documentation. Visit the official U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Consular Affairs website for further guidelines on supporting documents for visa applications.

Crafting an invitation letter for a U.S. visa is an opportunity to help facilitate a smooth visa application process for someone you care about. By following the guidelines and using the sample invitation letters provided, you can create a welcoming and supportive document that helps underscore the visitor’s intentions and your support during their visit.

Learn Today:

U.S. Consulate: An official office of the U.S. government located in other countries, responsible for providing consular services to U.S. citizens and processing visa applications.

U.S. Visa Invitation Letter: A personal document written by a U.S. resident or citizen inviting someone from another country to visit the United States. It serves as evidence of the purpose of the visit and may provide details about the inviter and the relationship between the inviter and the visitor.

U.S. Consulate General: A high-level diplomatic officer representing the U.S. government and providing consular services to U.S. citizens in other countries.

Relationship: The connection or bond between the inviter and the visitor, such as being friends, family members, or relatives.

Living Expenses: Costs related to day-to-day necessities, including accommodation, food, transportation, and other essential needs.

Legal Status: The immigration status or classification of an individual in the United States, indicating whether they are a citizen, permanent resident, or have another lawful status.

Notarized: The process of having a document officially certified by a notary public, confirming the authenticity of the signatures and the document’s content.

Photocopy: A reproduction or duplicate of an original document made through the use of a photocopier or scanning device.

Supporting Documents: Additional evidence or documentation submitted along with the invitation letter to strengthen the visitor’s visa application, such as a copy of the inviter’s ID or passport, proof of legal status in the U.S., and proof of relationship with the visitor.

USCIS: United States Citizenship and Immigration Services, an agency within the U.S. Department of Homeland Security responsible for administering the nation’s immigration system.

Service Center: Regional offices of USCIS responsible for processing immigration petitions and applications.

Legal Permanent Resident: An individual who has been granted lawful permanent residence in the United States through obtaining a green card, indicating their status as a permanent resident.

Tourist Attractions: Places or landmarks of interest to visitors that are popular for sightseeing or leisure activities.

Bureau of Consular Affairs: A bureau within the U.S. Department of State responsible for providing visa services, protecting U.S. citizens overseas, and managing U.S. passports and other travel documents.

Visa Application: The process of applying for a visa to enter a country, which involves submitting required forms and supporting documents, attending an interview if necessary, and paying applicable fees.

So, there you have it! Writing an invitation letter for a U.S. visa doesn’t have to be daunting. Just remember to include all the necessary information, keep it warm and personal, and attach any supporting documents. If you want more guidance and sample letters, head over to visaverge.com. They’ve got all the visa-related info you need. Happy letter writing!

This Article in a Nutshell:

To invite friends or family to the U.S., they may need a visa. An invitation letter can help establish the purpose of their visit. Include your contact details, relationship, visit details, and your intention to cover expenses. Keep the tone warm and personal. Remember to sign, date, and attach supporting documents.

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Home » Visas » USA Tourist Visa » Invitation Letter to Visitor

Sample Invitation Letter to Parents for a USA Tourist Visa

Rahul Gupta 123 Park Avenue Iselin, NJ 08830 USA Home: 732-391-9293 Work: 732-733-4087 November 22, 2021

To, Sita & Ram Gupta 123 Shankar Lane Malad(E), Mumbai – 400 027 INDIA 

Sub: Invitation to visit the USA 

Dear Mother and Father, 

I would like to invite both of you to the United States of America to stay with me for six months. It would be very nice to have you with me. During your stay, we would visit various tourist places in the USA, such as New York, Washington D.C., Niagara Falls, Las Vegas, Disney Land, and Florida.

During your stay in the United States, I will bear all your responsibilities including, but not limited to, financial responsibilities, return air ticket fare to travel from INDIA to the USA and back, travel expenses within the USA, medical insurance, housing, and food. You will stay with me in my apartment located at the above-mentioned address.

During your stay here, you will also get an opportunity to see and experience the western culture, meet different kinds of people, and eat a variety of food. You will also enjoy the nice weather and the nice city I live in.

We would have a nice time together after a long time. So, please begin planning for the trip. I am eagerly waiting for you to visit me. 

Yours lovingly, Rahul Gupta

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How to Write a Sample Invitation Letter for a U.S. Visitor Visa

Home » How to Write a Sample Invitation Letter for a U.S. Visitor Visa

July 25, 2021

There are various mandatory requirements to obtain a visa when visiting the United States. However, a letter of invitation from the American host is not one of them. The U.S. citizen or resident who will host the visiting B-2 visa holder may send a letter, but an invitation is not required. The letter cannot guarantee visa issuance, but it may be helpful in some situations. Many people feel more comfortable sending a letter, and we’ve provided a sample invitation letter for a visitor visa below.

Visitor Visa Requirements

B-2 visa applicants must qualify for the visitor visa according to their own circumstances, not on the basis of a sponsor’s letter or assurances. Based on the merits of the application and interview, a consular officer determines whether or not the applicant qualifies for a visa. In fact, to qualify for a B-2 visitor visa to the United States, applicants must meet the following three criteria:

Have a residence in a foreign country to which they will return to after their temporary visit;

Intend to enter the united states for a period of a specifically limited duration;, will go to the united states to engage in activities consistent with the visa., mistakes on uscis forms can cause costly delays or a denial., b-2 letter of invitation explained.

A B-2 letter of invitation is simply a letter written by the U.S. host to demonstrate that the visitor has a place to stay during the trip to the United States. Generally, the letter carries more weight if written by a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. The letter should state that the host is willing and able to accommodate the visitors during the specified duration of the trip. The host may include specific dates or a general period in which the visitor is welcome. It’s also helpful to state if the host and visitor have family ties or are friends. There is no requirement for an invitation letter for visitor visa. Therefore, there are no hard requirements for the letter. With that said, a letter should generally contain the following:

• Host’s full name and contact information
• Guest’s full name and contact information
• Guest’s relationship to the host
• Purpose of the planned visit, including the event (if applicable) or places you will visit
• Duration the visitor will stay with you or where you’ve made arrangements for him or her to stay
• Financial arrangements to cover the guest’s expenses during the visit (if applicable)
• Signature of the host

Write the letter in your own words, but try to be as specific as possible. We’ve included a sample invitation letter for a visitor visa below.

Sample Invitation Letter for Visitor Visa: Friends

Enzo & Gianna Russo Via Torquato Tasso, 26 71010 Lesina FG, Italy

March 22, 2019

Dear Enzo and Gianna,

I would like to invite you to come visit me in the United States this summer. You are welcome to stay at my home during for the duration of the trip. I understand that you have four weeks of holiday, but you are welcome to stay longer if needed.

During your visit, I plan to take you on several excursions to our theme parks (Disneyworld and Universal Orlando) and museums. I know you son is interested in space travel. I’m trying to arrange a visit to the Kennedy Space Center Visitor Complex as well.

I understand you plan to cover your own expenses for travel and incidentals. However, I will submit Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support, to guarantee your financial support.

I look forward to seeing you and your family.

Edwardo Sauvigne 26000 Whispering Trails Ave Winter Have, FL 33884 Home: (863) 555-1212 Mobile: (863) 555-1212

Sample Invitation Letter for a Visitor Visa: Family

Gurpreet & Jyothi Ahuja 337, Rajiv Gandhi St Uthandi, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600119 India

October 1, 2020

Dear Mom and Dad,

I would like to invite you to come visit me in the United States for my wedding on March 6, 2021. In addition to this special event, I am excited to have you spend time with Anika and see our city.

I will cover all of your expenses for the trip, including travel to and from the United States. During your two weeks with us, you will stay at my home, and I will provide all meals. I also plan to purchase you a visitor’s insurance plan and cover any other costs that come up during your trip.

Anika and I are extremely anxious to see you and have you participate in our wedding. We look forward to seeing you in March.

Hiten Ahuja 9601 Skyline Way Grand Prairie, TX 75051 Home: (972) 555-1212 Mobile: (972) 555-1212

Stronger Evidence to Support a B-2 Visa Application

For visitors that are currently unemployed, don’t have property and generally lack financial assets, it can be more difficult to demonstrate strong ties to their home country. In these cases, immigration officials become concerned that they will try to stay in the United States. A Declaration of Financial Support can help remove this doubt.

Known as Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support , the form shows that someone in the United States is willing to take financial responsibility for you. If you can prove that you are financially independent or are employed in your home country, you typically don’t need a Form I-134.

Form I-134 is a reassurance by the U.S. supporter to step in and assist if you unable to pay your expenses during the course of your U.S. visit.

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Invitation Letter Guide for U.S. Visa (B1/B2) Applications

For many individuals planning a visit to the United States on a B1/B2 Visa, presenting a well-crafted invitation letter can significantly strengthen their application. While not mandatory, an invitation letter from a U.S. citizen or Legal Permanent Resident (LPR) can positively impact the visa process, especially when it highlights strong ties to the applicant’s home country. Here, we explain what makes an effective invitation letter for a U.S. visitor visa.

Keys to a B Visa Invitation Letter

An effective invitation letter should communicate:

• Host’s Details: Include the host’s name, status in the U.S. (citizen or LPR), contact information, and address.
• Visitor’s Information: Please provide your full name, date of birth, passport number, and contact information.
• Relationship: Clarify the nature of your relationship with the host.
• Visit Details: State the purpose, exact duration, and itinerary of your visit, including accommodation arrangements.
• Financial Responsibility: It should be explicitly mentioned if the host bears any costs.

Structure of the Letter

The letter should originate from the host and detail their relationship with the visitor. It should be dated, contain both parties’ full information, and specify the hosting arrangements and travel dates. Crucially, it should emphasize the temporary nature of the stay in the U.S.

Sample B Visa Invitation Letter

Below is a template of how such a letter might be structured:

[Host’s Full Legal Name]

[Host’s Full U.S. Address]

Dear [Visitor’s Full Legal Name],

I, [Host’s Name], am delighted to invite you to the United States to celebrate my 50th wedding anniversary in Buffalo, NY, on February 21, 2050. You will be accommodated at my Buffalo, NY, residence from February 21 to February 28. Our plans include visiting Niagara Falls, Letchworth State Park, and Fort Niagara. I will cover the costs of your round-trip airfare, food, and medical insurance during your stay. Your presence would mean a lot to us.

[Host’s Signature]

[Host’s Contact Information]

Supporting Documentation

Accompany this letter with relevant documents such as event invitations, proof of roundtrip airfare, host’s identification or passport, accommodation proof, and a detailed travel itinerary.

Insights for B Visa Applicants

For B Visa applicants, remember:

• Dependent Visas: Spouses and children must apply separately for a B-2 visa.
• Employment Restrictions: B-1/B-2 visa holders are prohibited from working in the U.S.
• Visa Validity: A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport remains active; do not remove it from the expired passport.

Crafting an invitation letter with these elements can significantly enhance the credibility of your B1/B2 Visa application and facilitate your travel plans to the United States.

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Surefire Ways to Write Letter of Invitation for US Visa Application with Real Samples

HOW TO WRITE A LETTER OF INVITATION FOR US VISA

By Deb Pati last updated on October 16, 2020

There was a time, a simpler time, when I used to think that a letter of invitation wouldn’t change a thing. Long before I got that wanderlust that singers sing about and bloggers blog about, and needed to apply for visas.

Now, after having travelled and lived in many countries, and many conversations with people with powerless passports like me, I have come to the understanding that they make a difference.

And if you are traveling to the USA, a letter of invitation for US visa is no doubt helpful and can often add a lot of weight to your application. That being said, a letter of invitation, by itself doesn’t guarantee the issuance of a visa to the applicant.

You still need to fulfill, the US visa requirements such as proof of funds and strong ties to your home country.

This article refers to a US visitor visa invitation letter only. The template can be used for a B1/B2 visa or even a student visa, but not for a US business visa.

Table of Contents

When Do I Need to Provide a US Visa Letter of Invitation?

If you are a US citizen or legal resident, chances are that you want your friend, parents, partner etc. to visit you in the United States. Now if this said person needs a visa to visit the USA, you can help them by writing a letter of invitation for US visa.

You need to write this letter before they submit their visa application. When the applicant submits the documents at the U.S. consulate or Visa Application Center, this letter can go along with the application.

Sample Invitation Letters for US Visa for Tourism

The thing is, there are many ways to write a letter of invitation for US visa. Depending on the relation between the host and guest.

The thing to remember is that the host/sponsor must address a letter to the US consular officer and another one to the US visa applicant.

Here are some examples of invitation letters for visa, that are pretty common.

1. Sample US Visa Invitation Letter for Parents

Writing a US visa invitation letter for parents is probably the easiest and safest. Here is an actual letter written by a friend to invite his parents to the USA.

2. Example of Invitation Letter for Friend

An invitation letter for US visitor visa for friend can be written like this.

[Date] [Host’s name ex- Bob Vance] Address: Phone number: Passport number: Email: To: [Friend’s name] [Friend’s passport number] [Friend’s address] Dear [Friend’s name e.g. Vladimir], So happy to know that you finally decided on the trip to the USA. It would be an honor to invite you to come and host you during your trip from [Date range]. During this time we can visit the statue of liberty, and other famous landmarks in New York. And we can plan to go for some road trips in the tri-state area. I would also like to add that, I will be responsible for your entire USA tour expenses, including the round trip flights, housing, food, and any other personal expenses. I am sending a copy of my passport and rental lease with this letter, to help you with your US tourist visa application. Love, [Signature] Bob Vance

3. Sample Letter to Consulate for Visitor Visa

Your Visa Invitation letter to the United States Consul should look like this.

15/02/2020 Consulate of the United States of America, Bogota, Colombia Dear consular officer, Good day! My name is Christine Bundy. I am a citizen of the United States and I live in 12, Mountain Drive, Portland, OR-97206. I have been working as a teacher at Mountain View High school in Portland for the last five years. I am writing this letter to request you to grant a B-2 tourist visa to my friend Daniela Romero, a citizen of Colombia with passport number AL123456. I have known her for two years. I met her when I was living in Colombia and she took it upon herself to introduce me to her culture, and that’s how we became friends. Daniela will be visiting me in Portland from 08/02/2020 to 11/06/2020, for a period of almost three months. During her stay in the United States, she will stay with me at my home at the address stated above. Daniela will be presenting my letter to you, along with a copy of my driving license as well as other proof. Thank you for your kind consideration. Respectfully yours, Christine Bundy, 12, Mountain Drive, Portland, OR-97206, 203-992-1098 [email protected]

How to Write US Visa Letter of Invitation?

It might seem like writing in ink gives your letter a more personal touch. You are not entirely wrong. It does. But, if we have learnt anything from the boomers and the generations that followed before computers became the norm, it is that handwritings are not often legible. No matter what your mom told you.

So, I would ask you to go ahead and simply type the letter on a word doc (or Hemingway app if you are feeling adventurous), sign it and scan it.

And while writing the letter of invitation for US visa, you must be very very careful about all these things. Under no circumstances should the consular officer get a hunch that it is fake, even if it is not.

A good US Visa invitation letter has three parts usually. It should not be more than one page and should not have any unnecessary information.

A letter of invitation for US Visa should be personal. So, no need to make it sound as if it was written by an attorney.

1. Details of the Host

• Host’s full name, address, email, phone number, and date of birth
• Host’s occupation
• The legal status of the host in the USA and a photocopy of a document proving that. Example- Green card, passport, etc.
• Affidavit of support

2. Details of the Guest

• Guest’s full name, address, phone number, email, and date of birth
• The relationship between guest and host – friend, sister, son, etc.

3. Information about the Trip

• Purpose and duration of the trip
• Details of accommodation arrangments and expenses

Is Letter of Invitation Mandatory for a US Visa?

No it is not. But see, applying for a U.S. visa can often be a not-so-pretty experience, with all the documents and the strict approach that USCIS has adopted.

A US visa invitation letter can smooth the entire process. This letter also demonstrates that as a citizen or legal resident, you, are willing and able to host them in your home and financially support them. And that the probabilities of them overstaying is lower.

Additional Information When Writing a Letter Of invitation To USA

Yes, the invitation letter that you have written has turned out to be the coolest thing you have done since the last Tik Tok challenge. But if you are a little thoughtful and really want to go the extra mile, how about these documents as well?

• Proof of Identity: A scanned copy of the host’s ID or valid passport.
• Proof of accommodation: proof you, the host has a home. Rental agreement or proof of ownership will do the trick.
• Evidence of funds: Bank statements and credit card statements etc. if you will be financially supporting that person.
• An Affidavit of Support: Only in case the host will be financially supporting the guest, then he/she can submit an affidavit of support for the application. You can fill in the  USCIS Form I-134  for this.

Would I Be Liable for my Guest’s Overstay in USA?

Now, that’s a million dollar question. Well, not million dollars! Duh!

So you sent the invitation letter for a friend or cousin. And he/she got a visitor visa to come to the US. You also sent her an affidavit of support in order to back up the invitation.

Now that person has fallen in love with the American dream, and doesn’t want to move his/her ass out of the United States.

Now you have one of these questions.

• Would you be legally responsible to turn her in? Call ICE?
• Would you need to financially support her since you mentioned that in the letter?
• How about just peace out and ignore him/her?

I am no attorney, but I will tell you this. What your “friend” does once he/she sets foot in the USA, that is not really your problem. The ICE or the FBI or the police have bigger issues to worry about.

Once the visa was issued by the consulate, you won’t have to worry about this stuff.

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About Deb Pati

Deb Pati is the founder of The Visa Project. He has lived and traveled in many countries. When he is not travelling, he is either working or writing.

Reader Interactions

August 26, 2021 at 10:37 am

I do not know when this blog was published, I am so grateful that I found it today. Thank you for this, it clarifies so much.

August 27, 2021 at 8:40 am

Thank you Tarryn.

April 14, 2023 at 1:53 am

its informative, thanks bro

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How to Get a U.S. Tourist Visa for Your Parents

Learn how to help your parents apply for a b2 travel visa, in this guide.

• Submitting the Travel Visa Application
• B2 Visa Interview Process
• Related Information

If you are a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, and you’re planning a family trip or want to bring your parents over from abroad for a visit, the first step is to help them apply for a B2 tourist visa.

In this guide, we’ll cover how to guide your parents through the travel visa application, help them prepare for the visa interview, and more.

Boundless’ B-1/B-2 travel visa service offers more than just help with your forms. We’ll help assemble your entire application, file it with the U.S. government on your behalf, and help schedule your visa interview. You’ll even get interview prep tips from a former consular officer who knows what it takes to succeed. Get started today!

Get personalized, end-to-end visa support with Boundless.

Learn more today

Determine Visa Eligibility

In order to help your parents apply, they must meet the eligibility requirements for a U.S. tourist visa , also known as a B-2 visa. Your parents must be able to demonstrate that they have strong ties to their home country and intend to return after their visit to the U.S. For more details on how to prove strong ties to home, check out Boundless’ guide .

Many people wonder if they can apply for a travel visa for their parents. It’s important to note that it is not possible to “sponsor” a family member for a temporary tourist visa or apply for the visa on their behalf. If you’re interested in helping your parents immigrate to the U.S., you would need to go through a separate process and sponsor them for an IR-5 parent visa .

Complete the Travel Visa Application

Once you’re ready to move forward with the travel visa process, you’ll need to help your parents complete the online travel visa application, Form DS-160 . This form collects biographical information, travel plans, and other details about the travel visa applicant. Each applicant must fill out a separate DS-160, meaning both parents will need to file their own forms in instances where both parents intend on traveling to the U.S.

You can learn more about the DS-160 process and how to complete the form at Boundless’ detailed guide .

Pay the Visa Application Fee

The visa application fee for a B-2 visa is $185, and it is non-refundable. Payment options vary depending on which country your parents are applying from, but most U.S. Embassies and consulates accept online payment via credit card or electronic transfer. Your parents will need to print the receipt as proof of payment.

Schedule the Visa Interview

After filing the DS-160 forms, your parents must schedule visa appointments at the U.S. Embassy or consulate in their home country. It’s possible to schedule online or by phone, depending on the location. Applicants will need to provide their passport number, DS-160 confirmation number, and payment receipt to schedule the appointment.

Gather Supporting Documents

Once the appointments are scheduled, you can help your parents gather the required supporting documents . They’ll need to bring several documents to the visa interview, including:

• Passport: The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in the U.S. and have at least one blank page.
• Photograph: Your parents will need to bring a recent, color photograph of themselves that meets the U.S. visa requirements.
• Evidence of strong ties to their home country: As mentioned above, strong ties can include proof of employment, property ownership, financial assets, or family connections.
• Travel itinerary: Your parents should bring a copy of their travel itinerary , including flight details and hotel reservations.
• Invitation letter: You may choose to write an optional letter inviting your parents to visit you in the U.S. The letter should include your contact information, the purpose of their visit, and the duration of their stay.

Attend the Visa Interview

Your parents will need to appear in person at the U.S. Embassy or consulate for the visa interview. The interview usually lasts about 15 minutes, during which a consular officer will ask questions about your parents’ travel plans, their ties to their home country, and other relevant topics. Your parents should answer truthfully and provide any requested documents noted above.

The visa interview can be a stressful process, but you can help your parents prepare with confidence by following the tips in Boundless’ travel visa interview guide . We also provide a list of sample interview questions you can practice with your parents, so they know what kinds of questions to expect.

Receive a Decision

After the interview, your parents will receive a decision from the consular officer and if approved, they’ll need to wait for their tourist visa to be processed. The length of time can vary depending on the embassy or consulate, but it usually takes a few days to several weeks. Your parents should not make any travel arrangements until they receive their official B2 visa.

Prepare for Travel

After the visitor visa is approved, you can start planning your parents’ travels to the U.S.! You should make sure that your parents are prepared for the trip by gathering any necessary documents (such as travel insurance ) and making the necessary travel arrangements. If it’s your parents’ first time flying into the U.S., you may want to help familiarize them with U.S. airport requirements and how to navigate U.S. customs before their flight.

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Visitor Visa

Visa Waiver Program

Travel Without a Visa

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), for tourism (visa category B-2), or for a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).

Here are some examples of activities permitted with a visitor visa:

Business (B-1)

• Consult with business associates
• Attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
• Settle an estate
• Negotiate a contract

Tourism (B-2)

• Vacation (holiday)
• Visit with friends or relatives
• Medical treatment
• Participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
• Participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating
• Enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)

Travel Purposes Not Permitted On Visitor Visas

These are some examples of activities that require different categories of visas and cannot be done while on a visitor visa:

• Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience
• Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft
• Work as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media
• Permanent residence in the United States

Visitor visas will also not be issued for birth tourism (travel for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for their child).

How to Apply

There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please consult the instructions on the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate website .

Complete the Online Visa Application

• Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 – Learn more about completing the DS-160 . You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Schedule an Interview

Interviews are generally required for visa applicants with certain limited exceptions below. Consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant.

You should schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be more difficult to qualify for a visa outside of the country where you live. 

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early. Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply: 

Appointment Wait Time

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Note: Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

Prepare for your interview.

• Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee , if you are required to pay it before your interview. If your visa is approved, you may also need to pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below:

Select your nationality to see Issuance Fee

• Review the instructions available on the website of the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.

Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

• Passport valid for travel to the United States – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements ). Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family members listed in your passport.
• Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page.
• Application fee payment receipt, if you are required to pay before your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Additional Documentation May Be Required

Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish if you are qualified. For example, additional requested documents may include evidence of:

• The purpose of your trip,
• Your intent to depart the United States after your trip, and/or
• Your ability to pay all costs of the trip.   

Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may be sufficient to show the purpose of your trip and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all the costs for your trip, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs for your trip.

Note:  Visa applicants must qualify on the basis of the applicant's residence and ties abroad, rather than assurances from U.S. family and friends. A letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a visitor visa. If you choose to bring a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support to your interview, please remember it is not one of the factors used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa.

Attend Your Visa Interview

A consular officer will interview you to determine whether you are qualified to receive a visitor visa. You must establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive a visa.   Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further  administrative processing .  The consular officer will inform you if this required.

After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if applicable to your nationality), and make arrangements for the return of the passport and visa to you.  Review the  visa processing times  to learn more.

Entering the United States

A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. If you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or a paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Learn more about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the CBP website .

Extending Your Stay

See  Extend Your Stay  on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website to learn about requesting to extend your stay beyond the date indicated on your admission stamp or paper Form I-94. 

Failure to depart the United States on time will result in being  out of status . Under U.S. law, visas of individuals who are out of status are automatically voided ( Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ).  Any multiple entry visa that was voided due to being out of status will not be valid for future entries into the United States. 

Failure to depart the United States on time may also result in you being ineligible for visas in the future. Review  Visa Denials  and  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws  to learn more.

Change of Status

If your plans change while in the United States (for example, you marry a U.S. citizen or receive an offer of employment), you may be able to request a change in your nonimmigrant status to another category through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). See  Change My Nonimmigrant Status  on the USCIS website to learn more.

While you are in the United States, receiving a change of status from USCIS does not require you to apply for a new visa.  However, once you depart the United States you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the appropriate category for your travel.

Additional Information

• An individual on a visitor visa (B1/B2) is not permitted to accept employment or work in the United States.
• There is no guarantee you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
• A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States. 

Travel for Medical Treatment

If you are seeking medical treatment in the United States, the consular officer may ask for further documents at your visa interview, which may include:

• Medical diagnosis from a local physician, explaining the nature of the ailment and the reason you need treatment in the United States.
• Letter from a physician or medical facility in the United States, stating they are willing to treat your specific ailment and detailing the projected length and cost of treatment (including doctors’ fees, hospitalization fees, and all medical-related expenses).
• Proof that your transportation, medical, and living expenses in the United States will be paid. This may be in the form of bank or other statements of income/savings or certified copies of income tax returns (either yours or the person or organization paying for your treatment).

Visitor Visas for Personal or Domestic Employees (B-1)

You may apply for a B-1 visitor visa to work in the United States as a personal or domestic employee for your employer in limited situations. You may work in the United States on a visitor visa if your employer is:

• A U.S. citizen who has a permanent home or is stationed in a foreign country, but is visiting or is assigned to the United States temporarily; or
• A foreign citizen who is in the United States on one of the following nonimmigrant visa categories:  B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, or Q.

Learn more about your rights in the United States and protection available to you by reading the Legal Rights and Protections pamphlet.

Visa Renewal

Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your visa, you will use the same application process (please review How to Apply , above). Some applicants seeking to renew their visas in certain visa classes may be eligible for the Interview Waiver (IW) which allows qualified individuals to apply for visa renewals without being interviewed in person by a U.S. consular officer. Review the instructions on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply to determine if the IW is available and if you qualify.

Do I need a visa if I have an ABTC?

Yes, you will still need a visa to travel to the United States, unless you qualify for the  Visa Waiver Program . Having an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC) does not change visa requirements, your visa status, or the visa process for travel to the United States.

How can I use my ABTC when I apply for my visa?

If you have an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC),  you might be able to schedule an expedited visa interview appointment. Review the instructions for scheduling expedited appointments on the website of the  embassy or consulate  where you will apply. 

Visa Annotations for Certain Maritime Industry Workers

Certain foreign maritime workers are eligible to apply for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) once in the U.S. If you, as a maritime industry worker, will perform services in secure port areas, your visa must be annotated “TWIC Letter Received.” Workers whose visas are not annotated will not be permitted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to apply for a TWIC.

In order for your visa to be annotated, you must obtain a letter from your employer explaining the need for a TWIC and that you are a potential TWIC applicant. See a template example of this letter. You must present this letter when you apply for the B-1 visa. You must meet all other eligibility requirements for a B-1 visa. 

Complete information about the TWIC program is available on TSA’s website at  https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic .

Visa Denial and Ineligibility

Review  Visa Denials  for detailed information about visa ineligibilities, denials and waivers.

I was refused a visa, under Section 214(b). May I reapply?

Yes, if you feel circumstances have changed regarding your application. Review  Visa Denials  to learn more.

Misrepresentation or Fraud

Attempting to obtain a visa by the willful misrepresentation of a material fact, or fraud, may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States.

Review  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws .

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not require visas to enter the United States, for visit, tourism and temporary business travel purposes. For more information see  U.S. Embassy Ottawa website ,  U.S. Consulate Hamilton website  and  CBP website .

Additional resources for Canadian visitors to the United States can be found on the U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites in Canada.

Citizens of China

In accordance with the agreement signed between the United States and China to extend visa validity, beginning on November 29, 2016, Chinese citizens with 10-year B1, B2 or B1/B2 visas in Peoples’ Republic of China passports will be required to update their biographical and other information from their visa application via a website every two years, or upon getting a new passport or B1, B2, or B1/B2 visa, whichever occurs first.  This mechanism is called EVUS - Electronic Visa Update System.

The EVUS website is now open to the public for enrollments at www.EVUS.gov .  CBP will not collect a fee for EVUS enrollment at this time. CBP anticipates the eventual implementation of an EVUS enrollment fee, but does not have a time frame. Until the implementation of a fee, travelers can enroll in EVUS without charge.  The Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will keep visa holders informed of new information throughout the year. For further information, please visit  www.cbp.gov/EVUS .‎

根据美中双方签署的延长签证有效期的协议，自2016年11月29日起，凡持有10 年 期B1，B2 或 B1/B2签证的中华人民共和国护照持有人需要每两年或在获取新护照或最长有效期的B1、B2或B1/B2签证时时（以先到者为准），通过网站更新他们签证申请上的个人资料及其它信息。这个机制我们称之为EVUS –签证更新电子系统。

EVUS的登记网站 www.EVUS.gov 现已开放接受登记。美国海关和边境保护局（CBP）目前不会收取登记费用。美国海关和边境保护局预期EVUS登记收费最终会实施，但目前尚未落实执行时间。在收费实施前，旅客可以免费完成EVUS登记。美国国土安全部海关和边境保护局将在今年及时向签证持有人公布最新的信息。获取更多的信息，请访问 www.cbp.gov/EVUS 。

Citizens of Mexico

Citizens and permanent residents of Mexico generally must have a nonimmigrant visa or Border Crossing Card (also known as a "Laser Visa"). For ease of travel, the B-1/B-2 and the Border Crossing Card have been combined into one document (DSP-150). Select  Border Crossing Card  to learn more about this card.

Please visit  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  websites for more information regarding applying for a visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulates in Mexico.

Further Questions

• Case-Specific Questions - Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling your visa application for status information. Select  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  for contact information.
• General Questions - review  Contact Us .

Visa Waiver Program  (VWP)

Tourist or business travelers who are citizens of participating countries may be eligible to visit the United States without a visa. Visits must be 90 days or less, and travelers must meet all requirements.

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not need visas for tourism and visits.

More Information

A-Z Index Legal Rights & Protections Lost/Stolen Travel Documents Denials Fraud Warning Visa Expiration Date Automatic Revalidation Nonimmigrants in the United States–Applying for Visas in Canada or Mexico Visa Applicants - State Sponsors of Terrorism Border Security/Safety Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Customer Service Statement

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

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• Faculty & Staff

Invite Family Members to Visit the U.S.

During your studies at UW you may want to invite your parents or other family members to visit. Here are some suggestions to help them apply for a visitor’s visa (B-2) at a US consulate or embassy in their home country.

Letter of Invitation

To facilitate their visa interview process you should do the following:

• Many sample letters can be found by searching “sample letter visitor visa graduation” online.
• Include an Enrollment Verification to confirm your student status. Graduate students who hold an RA/TA appointment may want to also attach a departmental funding letter.
• If you are graduating and they are traveling to attend your commencement ceremony, provide details of the Commencement Ceremony .
• For additional information about U.S. consulate/embassy locations and application procedures, review the U.S. Department of State visa information .

Providing your family members with this documentation may improve their chances of obtaining a visa; however, there is no guarantee a visa will be issued. The success of their request for a visa lies in their ability to prove that they have no intention of staying permanently in the U.S.

Please note that ISS advisers are unable to write a letter of invitation for your family members.

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Visit the U.S.

Generally, if you want to visit ( and not live in ) the United States you must first obtain a visitor visa . Travelers from certain countries may be exempt from this requirement. For more information, please see the U.S. Department of State website .

If you want to travel to the United States for reasons other than business or pleasure, you must apply for a visa in the appropriate category. This includes if you want to study, work as a crew member or journalist, etc. You can get help determining which visa you need by using the Explore My Options page.

Extending Your Visit

If Customs and Border Protection (CBP)  authorizes your admission to the United States at the designated port of entry, you will receive a stamped Form I-94, Record of Arrival-Departure . If you wish to stay beyond the time indicated on the Form I-94, you may apply for an extension by filing Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status , with USCIS.

If You Lose Form I-94

You may apply for a replacement Form I-94 by filing a Form I-102, Application for Replacement/Initial Nonimmigrant Arrival/Departure Record .

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B1/B2 Visa Interview Questions and Answers for Parents Visit...

Mar 30, 2024

B1/B2 Visa for Parents - Documents Checklist and Application...

Apr 04, 2024

Sample Sponsorship Letter for (B1/B2) Tourist Visa USA

Mar 27, 2024

Sample Invitation Letter to Visit USA for Parents (B1/B2 Visa)

Updated: Apr 21

[Parent's Name]

[Parent's Address]

Subject: Invitation to visit the USA

Dear Mom and Dad,

I would like to invite you to the USA and stay with me for [3 months]. It would be very nice to have you with me here. During your stay, we would like to visit various tourist places in [Your State] such as [Example Tourist Locations].

During your stay in the United States, I will bear all your responsibilities, including but not limited to, financial commitments, air ticket fare to travel from India to the USA and back, travel expenses within the USA, medical insurance, housing, and food, and all your expenses.

During your entire trip, you will stay with me at my house located at [Your Address]. I am sending you all the required documents: my passport copy, US visa, I-94, pay slips, proof of funds, etc. for you to apply for a US visitor’s visa (B-2) at the US Consulate in [Consulate Location].

During your stay here, you will also get an opportunity to see and experience Western culture, meet different kinds of people, and try a variety of food. You will also enjoy the nice weather that we have here in [Your City, State] . I am looking forward to seeing you here.

[Your Name]

[Your Address]

[Your Contact Number]

Below, I am sharing a few more B1/B2 visa invitation letter samples for parents to visit the USA. However, it's not compulsory to mention these reasons, and tourism alone is generally sufficient with the highest success rate in obtaining approval for a US tourist visa. I would recommend sticking to tourism as the reason for travel.

Table of Contents: Invitation letter for parents to visit USA (visitor visa)

Invitation letter for parents to visit the USA

Inviting parents to the USA for pregnancy

Sample invitation letter for visitor visa for parents to consulate

For graduation ceremony

How to write an invitation letter for a parent's visa

How to Write an Invitation Letter for a US Visa

B1/B2 appointment wait times , and locations

B2 visa interview questions for parents

US visa rejection rate

Parents' visa interview questions

B1/B2 documents checklist for interview

DS-160 photo requirements

DS-160 validity (Important)

Steps if DS-160 expired

B1/B2 visa duration/ max stay period

Buying Health Insurance

FAQs on B1/B2 visas

Related: Sponsorship letter for the US tourist visa

Sample Invitation Letter for Parents to Visit USA for Pregnancy

Subject: invitation letter for parents to visit the usa.

Dear Mom and Dad ,

I am writing to invite you to share in the joy of our pregnancy. As you know, [partner’s name] and I are expecting a baby in [month, year] , and we would be honored if you could be part of this special time in our lives.

We are grateful for your love and support, and we believe that your presence during this time will bring us comfort and joy. We would love for you to be a part of the pregnancy journey, from attending prenatal appointments with us to sharing the excitement of baby showers and other celebrations.

Throughout your trip of [4 months] , you will be staying at my residence located at [address] . I am sending you all the required documents: my passport copy, US visa, I-94, pay slips, and proof of funds for you to apply for a visitor's visa (B-2) at the US Consulate in [Consulate location] .

We know that you will be wonderful grandparents and we can’t wait to see you. Your presence and support will be invaluable to us as we prepare for this new chapter in our lives. Thank you for your love and support, and we look forward to sharing this exciting journey with you.

Warmest regards,

Sample Invitation Letter for Visitor Visa for Parents to Consulate

The U.S. Consulate General,

U.S. embassy [Shantipath]

[Chanakya Puri, New Delhi, 110021]

Sub: Request for Visitor Visa (B-2) for my parents

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am, [Your name] , working as [Your profession] at [Company's name, location] . I would like to invite my parents, [Father's full name] and [Mother's full name] residing at [Home country complete address] to visit me for about [2-3 months, do not exceed 6 months] .

The purpose of their travel to the US is to visit me and visit some other tourist locations in the United States of America. During their visit, they will stay with me at my residential address mentioned at the end.

I have enough funds in the bank to cover all the expenses related to my parent's visit to the US. I am employed full-time with an annual salary of [xxx, xxx $] per year. I will bear all their expenses: round trip airfare from [Your city, India] to the USA, housing, flight tickets for travel within the US, health insurance, food, and all other personal expenses.

I am enclosing the following documents for visa issuance:

Copy of my passport

Copy of my [Permanent resident card, or other legal document]

Copy of my latest three salary slips

Proof of funds from bank [Bank's name]

Copies of 2 months of my bank statements

I would appreciate it if you could kindly grant my parents a US visitor visa (B-2) to visit me and visit other places in the USA. I will personally make sure that they leave the USA on time, before the expiration of their authorized stay.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions.

[Signature]

[Your name]

[US full address]

Mobile number: +1 (123)-(456)-(7890)

Email address: [Your email ]

Sample Invitation Letter for US Visa for Parents for Graduation

Subject: invitation to visit for my graduation ceremony.

I hope this letter finds you both in good health and spirits. I am excited to announce that my graduation ceremony is coming up soon, and I would be honored if you could attend and stay here for [a month] .

As you know, this is a very important moment for me, and it would mean the world to have you by my side on this special day. The ceremony will be held on [insert date], at [insert time], at [insert location] .

I am proud of all the hard work and dedication that has gone into achieving this milestone, and I would love to share this experience with you. Because of your love, support, and encouragement, I have come this far, and I could not have done it without you.

Please let me know as soon as possible if you attend, so I can make the necessary arrangements. I am looking forward to seeing you both and celebrating together.

Thank you for everything you do for me. I love you both very much.

With love and gratitude,

How to Write an Invitation Letter for a Parents Visa

Ensure you include the following details if you write the invitation letter for parents yourself. These are not compulsory but nice to include so that your parents can get a tourist visa in one shot.

The letter should be in English.

It should have the name of your parents and their relationship with you - father, mother, in-laws.

Purpose of their visit like tourism, graduation ceremony, etc.

Dates of their stay with the approximate length of visit.

Location of their visit like where are they staying, with you or hotel, etc.

Proof of funds like how their visit will be funded, who will be funding, etc.

Related: How to extend a B2 tourist visa beyond 6 months?

Invitation Letter for US Visitor Visa

In general, If you're writing an invitation letter for a US visa for parents, family members, or friends applying for a US visitor visa, keep these six points in mind to make your invitation letter effective and well-prepared.

Language: The letter must be written in English.

Invited Person : Include the full name of the person being invited. Mention your relationship with the invited person (friend, brother, sister, family, etc.).

Purpose of Visit: Clearly state the reason for their visit (tourism, medical treatment, family event, etc.).

Dates of Stay: Provide the approximate dates of their stay in the US and duration of stay. Remember it should be beyond 6 months in one stretch.

Location of Visit: Specify where the invited person will be staying during their visit.

Proof of Funds: Explain how their visit will be financially supported. Mention who will be funding their expenses (you, themself, etc.).

US Visitor Visa Waiting Time

The waiting time for US visitor visa appointments can fluctuate significantly, ranging from a few weeks to several months depending on your visit's time of year and your location. You can check the current US visa appointment wait times on the US Department of State website .

Just enter the city where you intend to attend the interview, and the current appointment wait time will be displayed for various visa types. You need to look at the B1/B2 visitor visa wait time.

Related: Things to know about the USA before traveling

For instance, as of March 2024, the US visitor visa waiting time for India is as follows:

U.S. Embassy Locations

If you're unsure about the location of the US embassy near you, you can easily find the details on the US embassy website . Just enter your location, and it will provide you with the physical address and contact information for the nearest US embassy.

If you're unable to locate the embassy, simply scroll down on the US embassy website, and you'll find a list of locations arranged alphabetically. It's recommended to verify embassy details on their official website for the most up-to-date information. For instance, here are the details for the U.S. embassy in Denmark.

Related: How to expedite green card processing?

B2 Visa Interview Questions for Parents

Now that you know where and when to attend the interview, it's essential to engage in basic interview preparation. During the B1/B2 visa interview, the officer may ask you a range of questions. You can read about this in the following blog.

Related : B2 visa interview questions for parents

However, before we dive into B1/B2 visa interview questions, it's important to understand why you need to prepare for the B1/B2 visa interview.

US Visa Rejection Rate

In the fiscal year 2022, the US tourist visa rejection rate for India stood at 6.54%. However, a couple of years ago, the refusal rate for India was over 25%, indicating that 1 out of 4 tourist visa applications was rejected.

Below, you'll find details of the adjusted rejection rates for US tourist visas over the past 5 years. If the table isn't visible, you can access it through this link for a more user-friendly mobile experience.

The first table is about India, and the second table is for other countries. You can find complete details on the US Department of State website.

Parents' Visa Interview Questions

It's important to answer the visa interview questions honestly and wherever possible provide documents to support your answers. Be prepared to explain the purpose of your visit and provide evidence that you intend to return to your home country after your visit.

Length of stay: How long do you plan to stay in the US? Do you have a return ticket booked? Tip: If you already have a return ticket booked, it's good to keep a copy of the tickets during your interview. Also, in general, keep in mind that you can not stay beyond 6 months in one stretch. Refer this .

Purpose of travel: What do you plan to do during your US trip? Will you be traveling for pleasure or business? Tip: Remember that B1 is a business visa and B2 is a tourism visa. Tell them you will visit family, grandkids, or whatever reason you have, just be honest with your answer.

Accommodation: Where will you be staying while you are in the US? Tip: Try to memorize the city at least where you will stay during your visit, if possible keep the complete address handy on a piece of paper if you can't remember it. Usually, parents forget the address. Or, just keep the sponsorship letter handy to indicate the address.

Employment and financial situation: Are you employed? Who is paying for your trip to the US? Tip: If you are working, just explain what you do and how much you earn, and keep a copy of the latest bank statement if possible which has sufficient funds to show. If you are a public servant you might need an NOC (No Objection Certificate) from your department. If you are not working, explain who is sponsoring your visit. Keep a copy of the sponsorship letter handy. Refer this .

Criminal record: Do you have any pending criminal charges? Have you ever been convicted of a crime? Tip: Answer honestly and explain if you have something to disclose.

Travel or Immigration history: Have you traveled to the US or any other countries before? Tip: Again, answer honestly if you have any travel history. Keep your old passport with you even if it's expired.

Medical history: Do you have any medical conditions that may require treatment while you are in the US? Tip: It's not mandatory to have health insurance before you travel but if you have some serious medical condition it's wise to buy health insurance and keep a copy of insurance details to show it to the officer.

Related: How to apply for H4 EAD?

Other B2 Visa Interview Questions for Parents

What does your son/daughter do in the US? Where do they work?

Do you have family or property in your home country? Evidence of ties to your home country.

What is your educational background?

Have you ever been refused a visa to any country? If so, provide details.

Have you ever overstayed a visa or been in the US illegally?

Read more about interview questions

B2 Visa Documents Checklist for Parents (for Interview)

The B2 visa document checklist may vary slightly based on sponsors' immigration status in the US, such as being on H1B, L1, J1, or F1 visas, or being a permanent resident/green card holder.

Documents (from the sponsoring party) that parents should carry during the visa interview are:

Latest 3 months of pay stubs

Latest bank statement for the proof of funds

Copy of employment verification letter

Copy of passport and visa pages

Copy of latest I-94

Copy of valid I-129S for L1, DS2019 for J1, I-797A for H1B, I-20 for F1, or green card for PR holders

Invitation letter

Sponsorship letter

Documents (belonging to my parents) that I requested them to bring for the interview are:

Parents' original passport with 6 months of minimum validity

Expired old passports (if any)

DS-160 confirmation page ( unexpired )

Appointment confirmation page

Employment letter and NOC (if parents are working)

Bank statement with sufficient balance

Documents such as the Aadhar card, PAN card, and utility bills (I have asked my parents to bring all the relevant identification they can)

Accommodation details (sponsorship letter would fulfill this requirement)

My parents, family members, and in-laws have traveled to the US multiple times, and this B2 visa document checklist should be sufficient. However, I would recommend checking the official website in case there have been any changes to the rules.

DS-160 Photo Requirements (B2 Visa)

Whether you need to bring a photo or not varies from country to country, based on the DS-160 Photo Requirements. If you have photographs, it's advisable to carry them with you during the biometric and interview processes.

For example, if you are applying for a US tourist visa from India, there is no need to upload or carry a passport-size photograph. On the DS-160 page, it's mentioned that " Photo will be taken at ASC ", application service center. So your photograph and fingerprints will be taken during biometrics which is before the actual interview. But again, if you have extra photos, it's okay to bring them to the ASC.

Another example is if you are applying for a US tourist visa from Italy, you'll need to upload a recent digital passport-size photograph.

Irrespective of the fact of where you are applying, if you are planning to bring photos, you can find the requirements on the U.S. Department of State website. These photos should be passport-size, measuring 2 by 2 inches, with an off-white background.

DS-160 Validity

The first step in a tourist visa application is to fill out the DS-160 form. Filling out the DS-160 form is an online process, and there is no payment required for this step.

Many of us are unaware that the DS-160 form remains valid for only a year from the completion date . You can locate the 'completion date' on the 'confirmation page,' which is generated after electronically submitting and signing the DS-160 form. This date is situated just below the travel purpose information on the DS-160 confirmation page.

These days (as of May 2023) there is a huge wait time (365+ days) to get the interview dates. So if you try to submit the application today and get the interview date, probably you will get it sometime next year in May 2024.

On the day of your interview, your DS-160, which you submitted a year ago, will have expired automatically. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that there is less than a one-year gap between the completion date of your DS-160 and the interview date before sending your parents for the interview.

Steps If DS-160 is Expired

If your DS-160 has expired like the previous discussion, then you would need to fill the DS-160 again. I had to fill it out again due to this situation as I submitted the DS-160 form more than a year ago. The embassy would give your parents a few hours to fill out the form again, print it, and present it on the same day.

Luckily, you do not need to fill out the whole application, instead, you can just retrieve it and this can be done quickly. Just follow these steps:

Visit the U.S. Department of State website.

Enter the location where you will be giving the interview and select retrieve application. Do not select Create a new application.

Next, enter your expired application ID and hit retrieve application.

It will automatically fill in most of the information from your previous application.

Keep saving otherwise your session will expire.

Sign and submit as a preparer (your details) and you will get a new confirmation number.

Validate the completion date, it should be today's date.

Hopefully, this saves you some time. Otherwise, you will end up filling out the DS-160 form at night in the U.S. time and your parents will be in India at the embassy looking for places to get new confirmation page printouts. Trust me it's not a good experience.

What's after the Visa Interview?

After the B1/B2 visa interview is completed, the consular officer will keep your passport and will make a decision based on the information you provided, and the result of your background check. There are possible three outcomes:

Visa Approved: Usually, your visa will be approved within 5 to 7 business days and it will be ready for pickup or shipped to your home address based on the choices you made while applying for a B2 visa. Read more .

Administrative Processing: Sometimes, the consular officer may need to run an additional background check for your application which could take several weeks or even months. After administrative processing either your visa will be approved or denied.

Visa Denied: The consular officer might determine to deny your B1/B2 visa application and explain the reason for the denial. You may be able to reapply, but you need to address the reason for the denial with additional documentation to support your application.

B1/B2 Visa Duration

Generally, the approved duration of a B1/B2 visa is 10 years, but you may receive a visa for a shorter duration, such as 1 or 2 years. As soon as you receive your passport back after the interview, check the duration of your B1/B2 visa stamp. It should indicate your visa validity.

Now, having a 10-year B1/B2 visa doesn't mean you can stay in the US for that entire duration. The maximum length of stay is usually 6 months or even shorter. It ultimately depends on the duration approved by the CBP (Customs and Border Protection) officer during your entry into the US at the port of entry, where your immigration is done. You can read about this in the following blog.

Related: B1/B2 visa length of stay

You can check the stamp and date mentioned by the CBP officer on your passport if it's less than 6 months then that's your maximum length of stay. If there is no arrival stamp on your passport, you can check I-94 for "Admit Until Date" after your arrival and that should be your maximum stay period. For example, the following I-94 is valid for 6 months.

B1/B2 Visa Health Insurance

As mentioned earlier, it is not mandatory to have health insurance to visit on a B1/B2 visa, but it's strongly recommended because healthcare in the US can be very expensive. If your parents have some medical condition it's always a good idea to buy health coverage that can cover you.

I always purchase it, and it typically comes with a price tag of a few hundred dollars, providing you with peace of mind. You never know when you might require it. I've included the link for your convenience if you wish to make a purchase. While it's not obligatory, I strongly recommend considering it, as medical treatment in the US can be quite expensive.

FAQs on Invitation Letter for Parents to Visit USA

How long parents can stay on a visitor visa in the usa.

Upon entry, the CBP officer will typically stamp the date of admission on the passport along with the allowed duration of stay (D/S). This can be up to a maximum of six months.

If the officer believes that the parents' stay should be limited to a shorter period, they will indicate a shorter duration on the passport. It is advisable to check the I-94 admit-until date to confirm the actual duration of stay for your parents. Read more.

How can I apply B1 B2 visa for my parents?

There are three steps involved in applying for a B2 visa:

Starting from filling out the DS-160 form online. Read more .

Paying the visa fee, and scheduling an appointment

Going through the interview process. Read more .

Can I extend my B2 visitor visa beyond six months?

The maximum duration of stay on a B1/B2 visa is 6 months, and if granted you can get another 6 months of extension. To initiate the extension process, you need to submit Form I-539, which is used to extend or change your status. It is recommended that you apply to extend your stay at least 45 days before your authorized stay expires. Read more.

Can I get a DL on a B1/B2 visitor visa in the US?

In general, you can not get a US driver's license on a B1/B2 visa but you are typically allowed to drive in the United States using your foreign driver's license (International Driving Permit) for a temporary period and this rule varies from state to state, you can find the details on the United States government official website .

Can I rent a car on a visitor visa?

Yes, you can rent a car in the United States as a B1/B2 visa holder but you might have to show a valid driver's license from your home country, sometimes an IDP (International Driver's Permit), and in addition, you have to pay for additional vehicle insurance coverage.

Does a visitor visa invitation letter for parents need to be notarized?

No, there is no requirement to notarize the visitor visa invitation letter. You can simply sign it with a blue/black pen and scan and send it to your parents/ or family whoever is visiting you.

Is it necessary to have a B2 visa cover letter for parents?

No, it's not necessary, but it's a good idea because it makes it easier for officers to understand your visa application. This means fewer interview questions for parents and makes the process more convenient.

What should I know about American culture before visiting?

Here are some key points to keep in mind about American culture before you visit:

Diversity: Embrace diversity.

Personal Space: Respect personal space.

Tipping: Tip around 15-22%.

Greetings: Handshakes, eye contact.

Cultural Sensitivity: Avoid sensitive topics.

Time and Punctuality: Be punctual.

Traffic and Driving: Follow local rules.

Read more .

Next: Continue reading

Related posts.

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Related Topics

2 comentários.

I would say never give Pregnancy as a reason for your visit to USA. As this is mostly rejected.

I agree. Tourism is generally a self-sufficient reason and often receives approval smoothly, while other reasons are comparatively riskier.

Want to share your thoughts about this blog?

Disclaimer: Please note that the information provided on this website is for general informational purposes only and should not be taken as legal advice. Dataneb is a platform for individuals to share their personal experiences with visa and immigration processes, and their views and opinions may not necessarily reflect those of the website owners or administrators. While we strive to keep the information up-to-date and accurate, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, accuracy, reliability, suitability, or availability with respect to the website or the information, products, services, or related graphics contained on the website for any purpose. Any reliance you place on such information is therefore strictly at your own risk. We strongly advise that you consult with a qualified immigration attorney or official government agencies for any specific questions or concerns related to your individual situation. We are not responsible for any losses, damages, or legal disputes arising from the use of information provided on this website. By using this website, you acknowledge and agree to the above disclaimer and Google's Terms of Use (https://policies.google.com/terms) and Privacy Policy (https://policies.google.com/privacy).

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Sample Invitation Letter For Visitor Visa For Parents

Sample invitation letter for visitor visa for parents | sample invitation letter for tourist visa.

This sample Invitation Letter can be used for any country’s tourist visa. Copy this sample Invitation letter for visitor visa. Make appropriate changes and send to your parents, relatives, friends or anyone you want to sponsor. Keep this invitation letter simple and straightforward. No need to put unnecessary things.

Date: mm /dd /yyyy

Rajesh Kumar

abc St. Somerville  New Jersey, 08876, USA.

Work phone number:  (000)-000-0000.

Home Phone number:   (111)-111-1111.

Email : [email protected].

< Name of the person you are calling  >

< Address of the person you are calling>

Dear Papa, Mommy,

I am fine here, and hope that you are fine too. With utmost pleasure I am inviting you to visit us and spend your vacation in the USA with us. During your vacation here, we will visit many places in the US such as Niagara falls, New York, Atlantic City, Washington DC, Los Angeles, Las Vegas and many such places.

You will get a chance to experience and learn American culture. You will meet different kinds of people . You will taste different variety of foods. America is really a beautiful country. It has so many rich heritage. There are so many national parks here with full of natural beauty. So you should visit at least once.

I will be taking care of your entire USA tour expenses. I will be also taking care of your round trip air fare to USA, medical insurance, housing, travel within US, food, and any other personal expenses. You will be staying with us at our residence.

I enclose you herewith all the required documents for getting the tourist visa from the US Consulate, Chennai.

I am eagerly waiting for your arrival in the USA. Hope to see you soon.

Your Loving son

Click here to know more about B1 B2 visa.

Click here for latest B1 B2 visa questions and answers.

Click here for B2 application process and documents.

Note : I have a small request. I want to be an independent woman and I’m working hard. Could you please like and subscribe to my kids learning YouTube channel and help me by clicking this link  “ pro kids learning TV YouTube  channel “.

Simple step by step procedure. How To Apply for B2 Visa For Parents and Relatives. Documents Required for visitor visa.

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Israel’s war on Gaza updates: 40-day ceasefire offered to Hamas, says UK

Egypt and US ‘hopeful’ of ceasefire as Hamas delegation heads to Cairo for talks that aim to stop Israel’s looming Rafah offensive.

This live page is now closed. You can continue to follow our coverage of the war in Gaza here.

• At least 27 Palestinians, including many children and women, killed in overnight Israeli attacks on Rafah and Gaza City.
• Egypt’s foreign minister says he is “hopeful” about a new proposal for a Gaza ceasefire.
• US Secretary of State says he is hopeful Hamas will accept an “extraordinarily generous” offer, as UK Foreign Minister David Cameron says it will include a 40-day ceasefire.
• Hardline Israeli ministers are warning PM Netanyahu his government will collapse if a truce is agreed with Hamas in exchange for captives.
• At least 34,488 Palestinians killed and 77,643 wounded in Israeli attacks on Gaza since October 7. The revised death toll in Israel from Hamas’s October 7 attacks stands at 1,139, with dozens of people still held captive in Gaza.

That’s a wrap from us

Thank you for joining us for updates on everything related to Israel’s war on Gaza.

For more news, analysis and opinion on the conflict, click  here .

A look at what happened today

We will be closing this live page soon. Here’s a quick recap from today:

• The US said the ICC has no jurisdiction over Israel’s war on Gaza.
• Pro-Palestinian student protesters at Columbia University have defied a deadline, which has left them with an ultimatum to either leave the campus encampment or face suspension.
• Yemen’s Houthi rebels have claimed attacks on two vessels and two US destroyers, the group’s military spokesman Yahya Sarea said.
• The Israeli army has said two reservists were killed in central Gaza yesterday.
• A Hamas delegation has left Cairo, where it was discussing Israel’s response to a potential ceasefire proposal.
• The US and the UK have said the potential deal is a “generous” offer of a sustained 40-day ceasefire in Gaza in exchange for the release of captives.

Search for survivors after Jabalia refugee camp bombing

The Wafa news agency is reporting that the eastern parts of the Jabalia refugee camp in northern Gaza have come under Israeli bombardment.

A video shared on social media by photographer Mahmoud Shelha, and verified by Al Jazeera, shows residents and rescuers searching for survivors under collapsed concrete slabs.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Mahmoud._.shalha20 (@mahmoud._.shalha20)

Translation: Ambulances and rescue workers arrived at the scene after occupation planes carried out a series of raids on as-Sikka Street, in the east of Jabalia refugee camp.

Hamas delegation leaves Egypt after ceasefire talks

A senior Hamas delegation has reportedly left Egypt’s capital Cairo where it was discussing a ceasefire proposal with mediators, Egyptian media reported.

Hamas has repeatedly said it will not accept a deal that does not include a permanent ceasefire and a complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza – which have been major sticking points in negotiations.

Earlier, the US secretary of state claimed that the Israeli proposal was an “extraordinarily generous” offer, while Egypt’s foreign minister said he was “hopeful” about a new proposal.

UK Foreign Minister David Cameron said the potential deal would include a 40-day ceasefire in exchange for the release of captives from Gaza.

“Stopping the attacks against Palestinians is not generous. The attack itself is a crime, so when you stop a crime, you can’t claim that it’s a generous action from the Israeli side,” senior Hamas official Osama Hamdan told Al Jazeera.

Houthis claim attack on two vessels, two US destroyers

Yemen’s Houthis targeted two US destroyers and the vessel CYCLADES in the Red Sea as well as the MSC Orion in the Indian Ocean, the group’s military spokesman Yahya Sarea said.

The Houthis, who control the most populated parts of Yemen, have carried out dozens of attacks on vessels with commercial ties to the US, the UK and Israel in the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden since November.

The group says the attacks are a response to Israel’s assault on Gaza.

US advocacy groups back Palestine solidarity campus protests

Several faith, civil rights and progressive groups have expressed solidarity with university students protesting US support for Israel.

“We commend the students who are exercising their right to protest peacefully despite an overwhelming atmosphere of pressure, intimidation and retaliation, to raise awareness about Israel’s assault on Gaza – with US weapons and funding,” the organisations said.

The statement, backed by nearly 190 groups, highlights the growing progressive support for the campus protest movement despite crackdowns by university administrators and law enforcement agencies.

Read our full story here .

What would ICC arrest warrants against Netanyahu mean for Israel?

Israel’s Prime Minister Netanyahu says nobody will stop Israel’s military actions – not even the International Criminal Court (ICC) which is investigating the country’s operations in Gaza and the occupied West Bank and could issue warrants for the arrest of Netanyahu and other Israeli leaders.

Watch more below:

Rafah residents say can’t create safe zone in a war zone

Reporting from Rafah, southern Gaza

Despite the ongoing talks and progress made in Cairo for a potential ceasefire, people are still very cautious because they still have to deal with this intense bombing campaign that has been going on for the past 24 hours.

There has been an intense surge in air attacks and artillery shelling of not only Rafah City, but the remaining eastern part of the Gaza Strip. We’re looking at at least three atrocities committed against displaced families in Rafah and other parts of the Gaza Strip.

At least 43 people have been killed, and 26 of those who have been killed in overnight attacks and throughout the day happen to be from Rafah City.

There are reports of people still stuck under the rubble. There is also the inability of civil defence crews and paramedics and volunteers to reach those who might have survived these attacks.

It is increasingly becoming difficult to live in Rafah. One thing that the residents keep repeating here is that you can’t create a safe zone in a war zone.

European, Arab FMs meet in Riyadh to resuscitate two-state solution

European and Arab foreign ministers met in the Saudi Arabian capital on Monday to discuss how to join forces on advancing a two-state solution.

“If we want to move this two-state solution forward, it will not happen from the parties. I do not believe that Israel is ready to negotiate at this point, and I do not think that the US is ready to take the necessary leadership,” Norwegian Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide, one of the organisers of the meeting, told reporters. “So I think an Arab-European leadership is the best we can hope for.”

The meeting took place on the sidelines of a two-day World Economic Forum (WEF) special meeting in Riyadh, which was largely devoted to the war on Gaza.

Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan Al Saud was among the leaders who told the WEF meeting that tangible and irreversible steps towards establishing a Palestinian state would be an essential component of any deal for a durable ceasefire.

“The continued rejection of the two-state solution will inevitably undermine the security and stability of the region,” Prince Faisal said at the start of the European-Arab meeting.

‘We will not be silenced’, says University of Texas student protester

Hadi, a student and one of the protesters at the University of Texas in Austin in the United States, says the school is trying to “censor us”.

“We are seeing the illusion of American freedom, the illusion of American freedom of speech, crumbling behind us,” Hadi told Al Jazeera from the scene of the university encampment, where police are arresting dozens of students.

“The system and this university have decided to showcase that they would rather subjugate, oppress and silence students than allow us to have a peaceful demonstration where we hope to educate each other,” he said. “We will not be silenced.”

Students are calling for an end to Israel’s assault on Gaza and for the university to divest and stop all funding and investments tied to Israel.

Seattle students join protests, pitch tents

Pro-Palestine protesters pitched a handful of tents on the University of Washington campus in Seattle, joining other universities across the US in denouncing Israel’s war on Gaza.

According to the Reuters news agency, approximately two dozens students pitched tents on the quad, next to “no camping” signs that appeared over the weekend.

A few pro-Israel protesters stopped by and filmed while tents were being erected, but no altercations occurred.

If you’re just joining us

Here’s a look at the recent developments:

• The US says the ICC has no jurisdiction over Israel’s war on Gaza.
• An Italian navy ship shot down a drone fired by Yemen’s Houthi group that was aimed at European cargo.
• The Israeli army said two reservists were killed in central Gaza yesterday.
• The US Department of State has said it found five units of the Israeli military responsible for human rights violations in incidents that took place outside Gaza before October.
• Relatives of captives held in Gaza have protested in front of the Defence Ministry in Tel Aviv, calling for a deal with Hamas.

LISTEN: Will the ICC issue arrest warrants for Israeli officials?

All eyes are on the International Criminal Court.

It’s investigating Israel’s actions in Gaza and the occupied West Bank. Israeli officials fear it’s preparing to issue arrest warrants against Prime Mininster Benjamin Netanyahu and other senior figures.

So what would legal action mean for the country and its leaders?

Listen to our Inside Story Podcast below:

Biden speaks to Egyptian, Qatari leaders in push for Gaza deal

The Egyptian president received a phone call from US President Joe Biden to discuss the latest developments in negotiations regarding a ceasefire in Gaza and the dangers of a military escalation in Rafah, a statement from Egypt’s presidency said.

It added that the call also touched on the exchange of Israeli captives for Palestinian prisoners, a main sticking point in any comprehensive ceasefire deal between Hamas and Israel.

A Hamas delegation is currently in Cairo to deliberate on Israel’s response to a ceasefire deal.

President Biden also spoke to Qatar’s emir on Monday about efforts to reach a ceasefire in Gaza.

Arrests of protesters ‘ongoing’ at University of Texas

Hundreds of Texas state troopers have arrested students protesting against Israel’s assault on Gaza at the University of Texas in Austin in the US.

Demonstrators have been told to leave by the university, but they have defied orders to do so.

Al Jazeera’s Heidi Zhou-Castro, reporting from the scene, said arrests are “continuing and ongoing”.

“Now, the sheriff’s department has showed up with a large bus that they are filling now with arrested protesters,” she said.

Within the encampment, protesters are sitting “with their arms linked, in defiance of the call from the university to disperse”, Zhou-Castro said, adding that people at the scene said there is an “overly heavy police response”.

According to Zhou-Castro said, there was “no sort of violence, no sort of anti-Semitic chanting, leading up to this police response”.

UPDATE: dozens of state troopers have just arrived to @UTAustin . pic.twitter.com/er2uq1rcLy — Lily Kepner (@lilykepner) April 29, 2024

Parents and guardians of NYU students slam university president in open letter

Almost 600 “parents, guardians and loved ones” of students at New York University have criticised NYU President Linda Mills’s response to the student-led pro-Palestine demonstrations, as universities across the US step up rallies protesting Israel’s assault on Gaza.

In an open letter addressed to Mills, parents and guardians said they are “concerned and disturbed” by the reaction of the university to the “Gaza Solidarity Encampment”.

“Our number one priority is the safety of our children and their freedom of expression,” the letter read.

“The lies you are pushing infuriate and deeply alarm us,” the letter added, referring to an email reportedly sent by Mills. The email is “a betrayal of trust and a blatant attempt to deflect accountability for the university’s violent and horrific actions”, the parents said.

More than 100 protesters, including students and faculty members, were arrested by police at the encampment last week.

“We have not been offered any proof of an incident of intimidation, unsafe behavior, or antisemitism that you touted to justify the brutalization of our students,” the parents said in their joint letter.

“It was Linda Mills and NYU, who authorised riot police to arrest our students, that created a dangerous and violent situation,” they added, describing the arrests as brutal and disproportionate.

US says ICC has no jurisdiction over Israel’s war on Gaza

A US State Department spokesman has said the International Criminal Court (ICC) has no jurisdiction over Israel’s war on Gaza.

“Since this president has come into office, we have worked to reset our relationship with the ICC and we are in contact with the court on a range of issues, including in connection to the court’s important work on Darfur, on Ukraine, on Sudan as well,” Vedant Patel said.

“But on this investigation, our position is clear. We continue to believe that the ICC does not have jurisdiction over the Palestinian situation.”

Israel is not a member of the ICC and does not recognise its jurisdiction, but the Palestinian territories were admitted with the status of a member state in 2015.

In October, ICC Chief Prosecutor Karim Khan said the court had jurisdiction over any potential war crimes committed by Israeli forces in the Gaza Strip.

“The ICC is an independent organisation and their efforts are being undertaken without any contact or interference by the US,” US Ambassador to the UN Linda Thomas-Greenfield told reporters on Monday.

The US – Israel’s closest ally – is also not a member of the court. A White House spokesperson said later on Monday that “the ICC has no jurisdiction in this situation, and we do not support its investigation”.

Protesters defy Columbia University’s deadline

Pro-Palestinian student demonstrators at Columbia University have defied a 2pm (18:00 GMT) deadline after they were faced with an ultimatum to either sign a form and leave their protest encampment or face suspension.

The notice sent on Monday by the university in New York City to protesters in the encampment said that if they left by the deadline and signed a form committing to abide by university policies through June 2025 or an earlier graduation, they could finish the semester in good standing. If not, the letter said, they will be suspended, pending further investigation.

Protesters met the deadline with chanting, clapping and drumming from the encampment of more than 300 people. No officials appeared to enter the encampment, with at least 120 tents staying up as the deadline passed.

Colleges around the US had implored a wave of pro-Palestinian student rallies to clear out tent encampments. College classes are wrapping up for the semester, and campuses are preparing for graduation ceremonies, giving schools an extra incentive to clear encampments.

DISCLOSE! DIVEST! WE WILL NOT STOP, WE WILL NOT REST!! ❤️‍🔥 Hundreds of Columbia University students are gathered for an emergency rally to protect the Gaza Solidarity Encampment. We will continue until our demands are met. We will not be intimidated. #cu4Palestine pic.twitter.com/QNPeDhuVcq — Columbia Students for Justice in Palestine (@ColumbiaSJP) April 29, 2024

Italian navy shoots down Houthi drone in the Red Sea

An Italian navy ship shot down a drone fired by Yemen’s Houthi group that was targeting a European cargo, the Italian Ministry of Defence has said.

The drone was intercepted “in the late morning” near the Bab al-Mandeb Strait at the southern end of the Red Sea, the ministry said. It was taken down 5km (3.1 miles) from the cargo ship.

The cargo was targeted by other drones and missiles, with one missile exploding in water near it, causing only superficial damage, the ministry said.

The Italian frigate Virginio Fasan and the cargo it was escorting are proceeding southwards on their planned route to exit from the Red Sea, the statement added.

Houthi rebels have repeatedly launched drones and missiles against international commercial shipping in the area, saying they are acting in solidarity with Palestinians against Israel’s war on Gaza.

Two Israeli soldiers killed in Gaza

The Israeli army has said that two reservists were killed in the central Gaza Strip yesterday.

This brings the Israeli troop death toll to 263, the army said.

The two soldiers were killed and another soldier was seriously wounded in the Netzarim Corridor area, the army said.

Hamas’s Qassam Brigades issued a statement yesterday saying it had set up an ambush for Israeli soldiers that led to the killing and injuring of several reservists.

al-Quds Brigades claims rocket attacks on southern Israel

The armed wing of the Palestinian Islamic Jihad says it fired rockets from Gaza towards Israeli cities.

The group said that it “bombed ‘Sderot’, ‘Niram’, and the settlements surrounding the Gaza Strip in response to the crimes of the Zionist enemy against our people”.

Local media reported the Israeli army as saying a rocket fired towards Sderot was intercepted.

WATCH: ‘The encampment fills me with hope for a Palestinian future’

Us found five israeli military units responsible for gross rights violations.

The US Department of State says it found five units of the Israeli military responsible for gross human rights violations in incidents that took place outside Gaza before Israel’s latest assault on the enclaved began in October.

Four of the units have effectively remediated the violations, while Israel has submitted additional information regarding the fifth unit and the US is continuing conversations with the government, a State Department deputy spokesperson told reporters.

Qatar FM meets Blinken in Riyadh

In a read-out, the Qatari foreign ministry said the two officials focused on regional and international efforts aimed at an immediate ceasefire, the release of captives and detainees, and allowing humanitarian aid into the besieged coastal enclave in its entirety in a sustainable manner.

The Qatari official called on all concerned parties to exercise restraint, stressing the need for joint action to de-escalate and resolve differences peacefully.

Families of captives protest in Tel Aviv for a deal

Relatives of captives held in Gaza are protesting in front of the Ministry of Defence in Tel Aviv, calling for a deal with Hamas.

The families called on the government to work on releasing the captives, even if the price was ending the war, Israeli media reported.

The demonstrations come in light of footage released by the Qassam Brigades showing two Israeli captives demanding that the Netanyahu government work to release them, and saying that they are living in difficult conditions under Israeli bombardment.