To sponsort or not to sponsor?

[pras_padmini 1]

I am a bit puzzled whether documents need to be sent from someone residing in the US if their relative is applying for a visitors visa.

This website offers an elaborate explanation of I-134, bank statements, employment letter, etc.

Visitor visa sponsoring

And at the bottom, there's a link explaining how a visitor visa really can be sponsored.

Yet looking at discussions on the forum, people insist that a visitor visa is granted only based on the visa applicant, not a US sponsor and that no such documents are needed. So why the discrepancy?

I'm a bit worried whether my in-laws have sufficient funds, so I would like to show my own assets as well. But at the same time, I don't want the consulate to think that since I have the money to support them, there's "intent to immigrate".

Thoughts?

Edited January 31, 2013 by pras_padmini

[Hagrid 22]

hmm I would just let them apply by themselves if they have enough to afford the trip. Because you are right they might think that if you can help and support them, that can encourage them to stay here illegally. It might be a double-edged sword.

Ties to the home country are more important.

I had just 400 or 500 bucks in my account and two J1 exchange visas were approved and I marked in the forms I would pay myself for the trips and the 5 year tourism visa was granted as well in 2011. They didn't ask for any document at all, they were more worried to see my ties to Colombia and I was able to show strong ones.

Good luck and hope your family can visit you soon!

[CHarvey80 72]

There is nothing you can do. I would send them an invitation note, but do not say that you will be supporting them, that is a red flag. Just tell them why you want them up there and what your plans are as far as tourism goes. They need to get an approval on their own merits, that is how it works.

[Dave&Roza 748]

I am a bit puzzled whether documents need to be sent from someone residing in the US if their relative is applying for a visitors visa.

This website offers an elaborate explanation of I-134, bank statements, employment letter, etc.

Visitor visa sponsoring

And at the bottom, there's a link explaining how a visitor visa really can be sponsored.

Yet looking at discussions on the forum, people insist that a visitor visa is granted only based on the visa applicant, not a US sponsor and that no such documents are needed. So why the discrepancy?

I'm a bit worried whether my in-laws have sufficient funds, so I would like to show my own assets as well. But at the same time, I don't want the consulate to think that since I have the money to support them, there's "intent to immigrate".

Thoughts?

They must apply and be approved for a tourist visa based on their own situation. That means they have to show very strong ties to their home country. They have to have the means to travel. There is nothing you can do or prvide that will help them. An invitation letter can state the reason for their visit and that you will see to their expenses while here, but it is not required, may not help, and might actually hurt their changes of getting a tourist visa. I did provide such a letter for my MIL when she applied for a tourist visa this summer. She was approved even with a SIL and daughter living in the US. It really depends on the Consulate/Embassy and the person they get for the interview.

Good luck,

Dave