What is family life?
The family visa is a non-immigrant visa (also known as a tourist visa) that is granted to foreign citizens to enter the country with their closest members, generally their spouse, parents and children.
Who are eligible?
Anyone over the age of 21 is eligible for this type of visa. There are no restrictions regarding the educational level or profession of the applicant. Children can also be beneficiaries if they meet the conditions for a tourist visa (including having the minimum age).
According to the website of the US Department of State: any person applying for a family visa must demonstrate close family ties with the citizen requesting the visa, such as: marriage, blood relationship or affinity up to the fourth degree, shared residence for a period of time. long period of time, or a significant economic, social or emotional relationship between the citizen applying for the visa and the foreign family member.
Which are the requirements?
– Be a foreign citizen.
– Have the minimum age (21 years).
– Provide sufficient financial evidence to cover the cost of the trip.
– Have no criminal record or health problems.
– Have obtained a previous visa (if required).
How can I apply for a family visa?
The family visa is requested through the US embassy or consulate in the applicant’s country of residence. It is important that you know that each embassy and consulate has its own requirements, so it is advisable to consult with them directly to find out what documents are necessary.
In general, the application process consists of the following steps:
– Complete the application form.
– Provide financial evidence.
– Present passport and previous visa (if required).
– Provide evidence of effective ties with your family.
– Pass an interview at the embassy or consulate.
How long does the process take?
How long the process takes will depend on each case, but in general it can take up to two months.
If you are thinking of traveling to the United States and you need this type of visa, it is important that you start the process in advance.
How long is the family visa valid for?
The family visa is valid for six months. After this time, if you wish to travel with your family again, you must apply for this type of visa again.
Is there a family visa for children?
Yes, this visa is also granted to those under the age of 21 who meet all the requirements and have a previous visa (if required). It is important to know that it is not possible to apply for this type of visa twice. For example: if your child has a valid student visa, you will be able to obtain a family visa only for the same period of validity or until your child turns 21.
What happens if your family visa is denied?
If you are denied a family visa, there are no other types of visa that allow you to enter the country under this modality. It is important that you know this before starting the application process to ensure that you meet all the requirements.
What are the alternatives for traveling as a family to the United States?
In addition to the visa, there is only one alternative to travel to the United States as a family. This is the ESTA authorization for families. Through this document, the paperwork and time required to travel to the United States are considerably reduced. However, unlike the visa, tourists who travel with this permit are only allowed to stay in the country for less than 90 days.
The requirements to request this document for a family group are the following: valid passport, personal data and address of the place of stay within the United States. The application process is done online, which means a faster and more efficient service.
What are the benefits of ESTA authorization for families?
– There is no visa required.
– It takes less than 24 hours to be ready online.
– It is cheaper than the visa, it costs around 100 dollars per person.
– It can be used for a period of two years.
If you are thinking of traveling to the United States, the ESTA authorization for families is a good alternative since it reduces the paperwork and time required. Although it has some restrictions regarding the visa, it is an excellent option if you meet all the requirements to obtain it.
Why should you hire an immigration attorney?
When starting the family visa process, it is important that you hire the services of a professional immigration attorney or lawyer. Not only will they serve to guide and advise you throughout the process, they can also offer you other types of visa if you do not meet the necessary requirements to obtain a family visa.
Our immigration law firm offers you the best prices and the professional support you need. If you need legal advice and to process this type of visa, do not hesitate to contact us through the following form:
You can also communicate through (909) 319-7103 / 1 (800) 559-7170, visit us at 228 West C Street Ontario CA 91762 or send us an email explaining your case to info@sleeplessattorney.com
