Visiting Family in the United States A Friendly, Honest Guide if you’re thinking about traveling to the U.S. to visit family, there’s a lot to be excited about—but also a few things you need to get sorted first. This guide is written in a straightforward way, as if a friend is walking you through it. Let’s take it one step at a time.

Do You Need a Visa?

B-2 Visitor Visa

This is the visa most people use when visiting family in the U.S. if their country isn’t part of the Visa Waiver Program.

Here’s what to know:

• You’re usually allowed to stay for up to 6 months, but the immigration officer at the airport decides exactly how long
• You can’t work or study with this visa
• It can be issued for a single trip or multiple entries

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

If you’re from a country that’s part of the VWP, you can apply online for an ESTA and visit for up to 90 days without a visa.

Steps to Get a B-2 Visa

1. Check Eligibility

• Visit the official U.S. travel website
• If your country isn’t on the VWP list, go ahead with the B-2 visa application

2. Fill Out Form DS-160

• Complete the form online
• Upload a passport-style photo
• Print the confirmation page at the end—you’ll need it

3. Pay the Fee

• The application fee is usually $185, but double-check in case it has changed
• Save your receipt

4. Schedule an Interview

• Book an appointment at your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate
• Interview wait times vary, so book early

5. Attend Your Interview

• Be honest, relaxed, and clear about your plans
• Bring all your documents
• Expect questions about your visit, your ties to your home country, and how you’ll support yourself while in the U.S.

Documents You Should Bring

Required Items

• A valid passport (must be good for at least 6 months after your trip)
• DS-160 confirmation printout
• Receipt for the visa fee
• One recent photo (if not uploaded online)

Helpful Extras

• An invitation letter from your family in the U.S.
• Proof of your relationship (like birth or marriage certificates, or family photos)
• A copy of your host’s passport or green card
• Bank statements or a sponsorship letter if someone else is paying for your visit

Proof You’ll Go Back Home

• Work or school letters
• Documents showing you own or rent a home
• Family obligations (spouse, children, elderly parents)
• Proof of your return flight or travel plans

Budgeting for Your Visit

Proving You Can Afford It

• Bank statements from the past few months
• Job letters, payslips, or tax documents
• Financial support documents if your relative is covering your costs

What It Might Cost

• Visa fee: around $185
• Round-trip airfare: varies
• Travel insurance: $50 to $200
• Daily spending: about $100–$300
• Extra funds: it’s smart to have $1,000 to $2,000 for emergencies

Before You Leave

Things to Take Care Of

• Check that your documents are valid
• Buy travel insurance (not mandatory but highly recommended)
• Print and save copies of your important paperwork
• Tell your bank you’ll be traveling

What to Pack

• All original documents and copies
• Any medication you need (plus a note from your doctor)
• Clothes suitable for the U.S. climate
• Small gifts if you want to bring something for your relatives

When You Arrive

At the Airport

• Hand over your passport and visa
• Answer the officer’s questions calmly and honestly
• If asked, show your return ticket or invitation letter
• You’ll receive an I-94 form with your authorized stay dates

Keep in Mind

• A visa lets you travel to the U.S., but border officers decide if you can enter
• They may allow a shorter stay than what’s written on your visa

During Your Stay

Stay Within the Rules

• Don’t work or study
• Don’t stay past your allowed time
• Keep your documents safe and handy

Need to Stay Longer?

• Apply for an extension before your current stay ends using Form I-539
• Clearly explain why you need more time and include supporting documents

If Something Goes Wrong

If Your Visa Is Denied

• Don’t panic—ask for the reason
• Correct the issue and reapply when you’re ready

Struggling With English?

• Learn a few helpful phrases
• Use a translation app
• Bring translated copies of your key documents

Nervous About U.S. Culture?

• Ask your relatives what to expect
• Read about local customs and laws

Making a Strong Case

For the Interview

• Be clear and straightforward
• Talk honestly about why you’re going and when you’ll return
• Show that your life is still based in your home country

For Your Documents

• Keep everything neat and organized
• Bring both originals and copies
• Translate anything that isn’t in English

For Your Return Plans

• Show you have a reason to come home: work, school, family, property, etc.

Final Thoughts

Visiting family in the U.S. should be exciting—not stressful. By following the steps above and staying truthful and prepared, you’ll be in a great position to get your visa approved. Once that’s done, you can focus on what matters most—spending time with the people you love.