Assisting Family Abroad to Obtain a B-2 Tourist Visa
and Extension of B-2 Status
 

International students and scholars in the U.S. often ask UCIE staff whether there are any steps they might take to assist family members when their family applies for a B-2 tourist Visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in their home country.
 

First and foremost, it is incumbent upon family members to prove to U.S. Visa officers that they have no intention to emigrate to the United States, that their stay in the U.S. will be temporary. Your family will be asked to provide to U.S. Visa officers proof of family, income, and property to show a closer and abiding connection to their home country.

If you believe your assistance would be desired and helpful in your family's petition for the Tourist Visa, you may consider drafting a letter addressed to your family formally inviting them to visit you which states the following:

the inclusive dates of the invitation;
the purpose of the visit;
that you will provide food, lodging, and other necessaries;
a bank statement confirming that you have the funds on hand to support your family while in the U.S.; NOTE: The INS Form I-134, Affidavit of Support, is not designed to serve as an attestation of support for a B-2 visa application, and is therefore not recommended for such use by this Office. A bank statement will be far more effective as a supporting document.
if the purpose of your family's visit is to attend your Graduation, a letter on WSU stationary from the UCIE office can accompany your letter of invitation confirming when graduation will occur, and that you will be participating.

It should be emphasized that a letter of invitation is not required for family to make application for a B-2 Visa.
 

The University Center for International Education does not suggest the use of the I-134 to support a B-2 entry visa application, and does not provide that form.

While in the U.S., a person on a B-2/Tourist visa status can apply for an extension of stay by making an application to the INS. You can obtain a Form I-539 from the INS for this purpose.
 

Call the toll-free "Forms Request" telephone number to request forms: 1-800-870-3676 CIS will mail you the forms in about 1 week.