How Many Times Can My Parent Enter the United States on a Visitor Visa?
A U.S. visitor visa, whether for business (B-1) or tourism (B-2), generally allows multiple entries over a period of several years, depending on the visa's validity. However, the length of each stay is determined by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officer at the port of entry. The typical maximum period of stay granted is six months per entry.
This means that while the visa may be valid for multiple years, each individual stay should not exceed the period approved by CBP. Repeated or extended stays without a valid reason might raise concerns about the true purpose of the visit, so it’s important for parents to follow the guidelines closely.
Who Can Apply to Extend a Visitor Visa for Parents?
If your parents wish to stay longer than the initially granted period, you can help them apply for an extension. The application for extending a visitor visa (B-1/B-2) is done by submitting Form I-539, Application to Extend/Change Nonimmigrant Status, to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
The process typically requires:
- A valid reason for the extension (such as medical issues or unexpected family matters)
- Proof of financial means to support their extended stay
- Evidence that their original intent was to stay temporarily
It’s important to note that the U.S. government evaluates each request carefully to ensure it aligns with the original purpose of the visitor visa.
When to Apply for a Visitor Visa Extension for Parents
Timing is crucial when applying for an extension of a visitor visa for your parents. The application should be submitted well before the expiration of their current authorized stay, typically at least 45 days before the end date noted on the Form I-94 (Arrival/Departure Record).
Submitting the extension request early is key because staying in the U.S. beyond the authorized period without an approved extension can result in a violation of visa terms. This could lead to future visa denials or difficulties entering the U.S. for future visits.
How to Extend a Visitor Visa for Parents in the USA
To extend your parents' stay in the U.S., follow these steps:
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Download Form I-539: You can find the form on the USCIS website. This is the primary form used to extend or change the nonimmigrant status of visitors, including parents on a B-1/B-2 visa.
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Fill out the Form: Complete all required sections accurately. Your parents will need to provide details about their current visa status, reason for extension, and other relevant information.
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Submit Supporting Documents: You will need to provide evidence to support the request. This includes:
- A letter explaining why the extension is needed
- Proof of financial support to show they can cover their expenses during the extended stay
- Copies of the original visa, passport, and I-94 form
- Any other documentation proving that their visit remains temporary and they intend to return home
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Pay the Filing Fee: There is a fee associated with filing Form I-539, which can be paid online or via check/money order. Be sure to check the USCIS website for the latest fee information.
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Wait for USCIS Decision: Once the form is submitted, your parents can remain in the U.S. while their extension is being processed, as long as their application was filed before their current stay expires. USCIS will notify you of the decision, and if approved, your parents' stay will be extended as per the new terms.
Documents Required to Extend a Visitor Visa
When applying for an extension, make sure to have the following documents prepared:
- Form I-539: Completed application form.
- A Written Letter: Explaining the reason for the extension request.
- Proof of Financial Support: Bank statements or financial documents showing that your parents can support themselves during their extended stay without working.
- Passport: Copies of your parents' valid passports, including the page with the entry stamp.
- Visa Documentation: Copies of the visitor visa (B-1/B-2) and Form I-94.
- Any Additional Supporting Documents: This can include medical reports (if the extension is requested for health reasons) or other evidence related to the request.
What to Do if Your Parent Doesn't Receive a Decision Before Their Visa Expires
If the visa expiration date is approaching and your parents haven’t received a decision from USCIS, don’t worry. As long as the application for the extension was filed before the current authorized stay expires, your parents can legally remain in the U.S. while the request is being processed. This is called a "period of authorized stay."
However, if USCIS denies the extension request after the visa has expired, your parents will need to leave the U.S. immediately to avoid overstaying and potential future visa issues. It’s important to keep an eye on the visa dates and ensure that any required travel or actions happen promptly after a decision is made.