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Home » Blog » Visa Sponsorship and How It Works

Visa Sponsorship and How It Works

June 13, 2023 Apply for Green Card Working in the U.S.

In simple terms, visa sponsorship is when a family member or organization advocates for an individual’s visa. As the applicant for a visa, it means you have an advocate that supports your entry to the United States for the purposes stated in the visa. There are a variety of visa types and ways to get sponsored. Generally, sponsorship has a financial component as well.

Immigrant visas are for permanent immigration (green cards). But sponsoring a visa may apply to businesses helping an individual obtain a temporary work visa (such H-1B) or an organization that administers a visitor visa (like J-1).

Visa Sponsorship for Family Employment-Based Visa Sponsors Self-Sponsorship Examples of Visa Sponsorship Getting Started with Family Sponsorship

Visa sponsorship is typically associated with a petition. The U.S.-based person or entity submits a petition on behalf of the foreign national. Once approved, the foreign national is generally able to apply for the desired visa.

Visa Sponsorship for Family

There are a variety of family-based visas for nonimmigrant (temporary) purposes and immigrant (permanent) purposes.

Green Card Sponsorship

Family-based immigration is the most common way to obtain a green card. In fact, over 600,000 people get a green card through a relative each year. Visa sponsorship comes from the petitioning relative but can also come from other sponsors.

The petitioner sponsors the relative by submitting Form I-864, Affidavit of Support , and various supporting documents. If the petitioning relative does not have the financial means to sponsor a family member, someone else will need to step in to support the visa sponsorship. Certain qualifying household members may also contribute their incomes and/or a joint sponsor can submit another Form I-864.

Family-Based Immigration in the United States

K-1 visa sponsorship.

U.S. citizens may also petition a fiancé for the purpose of coming to the United States for marriage. The process begins with a U.S. citizen filing Form I-129F, Petition for Alien Relative with USCIS. The petition establishes there is a qualifying relationship. Once approved by USCIS, the foreign national applies for the K-1 visa through a U.S. embassy or consulate. Part of the K-1 visa application may include financial sponsorship from the U.S. citizen petitioner.

The petitioner submits Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support , to help the visa applicant. The visa sponsorship helps ensure that the K-1 entrant will not become reliant on the government if they do not have adequate funds during the trip.

K-1 Visa Path to a Marriage-Based Green Card

Visitor sponsorship.

Every type of visitor visa has a specific purpose. And once that activity has concluded or the visa expires, the visitor is expected to depart. F-1 students may travel to the U.S. for the purpose of attending school. On the other hand, B-2 visitors may come for tourism, visiting friends and family, and other leisure travel purposes. The U.S. government wants reassurance that visitors can support themselves while they're here and depart when it is time to leave. A visa sponsorship for visitors can help facilitate the approval process.

Generally, the U.S. government does not require a visa sponsorship for B-2 visas. A foreign visitor who has a healthy financial background and who meets the other requirements for visa, can typically obtain a B-2 visitor visa without a sponsor. If a family member or friend is willing to sponsor the visitor, that means that the sponsor has agreed to cover the costs should the visitor no longer have the means to pay. It mitigates the possibility the visitor will become a public charge .

To sponsor a visitor, the supporter prepares Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support . He or she must submit the I-134 declaration, a letter of invitation, and supporting documents as evidence of their financial ability to bear the expenses of the trip.

Employment-Based Visa Sponsors

When American employers are unable to find qualified workers within the United States, various programs enable them to hire workers from outside the U.S. This is a great opportunity for foreign nationals to enter the U.S. for the purpose of employment. These jobs may be short engagements or could provide visa sponsorship for a green card.

Although there are various U.S. work visa types for foreign workers with specialized skills, most focus is on the popular H-1B visa. These visas are temporary and must be renewed regularly. Visa sponsorship means an employer is willing to obtain a work visa for highly-qualified candidates who live outside the United States. It's not a simple process for employers. They must prove that they were unable to fill their vacancies with qualified American workers before sponsoring a visa. When an organization sponsors an employment visa for a new employee, they help complete the application, prepare labor certification paperwork, and act as the petitioner for the visa.

Overview of the H-1B Green Card Process

3 ways to find a sponsor for an employment visa.

For employment-based green cards and work visas, the first step is to connect with potential visa sponsors. But how do you find one? Several databases exist to assist job search candidates like you. These websites may include extensive history on past sponsors, contacts, job types, qualifications and other valuable details.

Self-Sponsorship

Certain individuals may actually petition themselves for a green card. This is an extremely limited group of foreign nationals. To self-petition, the individual files Form I-360, Petition for Amerasian, Widow(er), or Special Immigrant, based on inclusion in one of the following categories:

• Widows and Widowers of U.S. Citizens may file if they were not legally separated or divorced from the citizen at the time of his or her death, have not remarried, and that they file the petition within two years of the citizen's death.
• Battered Spouses/Children/Parents may file if they were a victim of violence or extreme cruelty at the hands of a U.S citizen or lawful permanent resident spouse or parent or U.S. citizen son or daughter.
• Special Immigrants may file if they are eligible under one of the various groups like religious workers or special immigrant juveniles.

Certain highly-skilled individuals may also self petition for employment-based visas. Generally, self-petitioners do not need a financial sponsor. Refer to the USCIS instructions for specific guidance.

Examples of Visa Sponsorship

There are a variety of USCIS forms to initiate the visa sponsorship process. Some of the common examples include:

Starting the Family Sponsorship

Both U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents may start the sponsorship process by filing Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative. Although there are additional forms along the way, this is how the process begins.

Ready to start? CitizenPath’s service was designed by immigration attorneys to give you an affordable, reliable way to prepare the petition. You’ll have the ability to prepare Form I-130 from the comfort of your own home knowing that you did everything right. To learn more about pricing and the 100% money-back guarantee, view our  Immigrant Visa Petition Package .

About CitizenPath

CitizenPath provides simple, affordable, step-by-step guidance through USCIS immigration applications. Individuals, attorneys and non-profits use the service on desktop or mobile device to prepare immigration forms accurately, avoiding costly delays. CitizenPath allows users to try the service for free and provides a 100% money-back guarantee that USCIS will approve the application or petition. We provide support for the Petition for Alien Relative (Form I-130) , Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) , and several other immigration services .

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Visa Sponsorship Explained: A Complete Guide for Visa Applicants and Sponsors

Visa Sponsorship Explained: A Complete Guide for Visa Applicants and Sponsors.

Navigating the complex world of visas can be daunting, and often, the success of a visa application hinges on the role played by a visa sponsor. Whether you’re planning to sponsor someone or seeking sponsorship for your travel, understanding the intricacies of visa sponsorship is crucial. This comprehensive guide aims to demystify the responsibilities, legalities, and processes involved in becoming a visa sponsor.

Who Can Be a Visa Sponsor?

Understanding who qualifies to be a visa sponsor is crucial in the visa application process:

Eligibility Criteria: Typically, a visa sponsor must be a citizen or a lawful permanent resident of the country to which the applicant is seeking entry.

Relationship to the Applicant: Discuss the necessary relationship between the sponsor and the visa applicant, such as a family member or employer.

Financial Requirements: Highlight the sponsor’s need to demonstrate financial stability to support the applicant during their stay.

Types of Visas Requiring Sponsorship

Different visa types require the support of a sponsor:

Family-Based Visas: Explain how family members can sponsor relatives for immigration purposes.

Employment Visas: Discuss how employers act as sponsors for employment-based visas.

Student Visas: Cover the role of educational institutions in sponsoring international students.

Differences in Sponsorship Requirements: Highlight how sponsorship requirements vary across different types of visas.

Financial Responsibilities of a Sponsor

One of the primary roles of a visa sponsor is to ensure the financial stability of the applicant during their stay. This often involves providing an Affidavit of Support , a legally enforceable document that proves the sponsor can financially support the visa applicant. Sponsors need to demonstrate sufficient income or assets to fulfill this obligation.

Legal Obligations and Liabilities

Being a sponsor comes with legal responsibilities:

Enforceability of Sponsorship: Explain how the affidavit of support is a legally binding agreement and the consequences of failing to fulfill its terms.

Responsibility to Ensure Visa Compliance: Discuss the sponsor’s role in ensuring that the visa holder complies with the terms of their visa.

Liabilities in Case of Non-Compliance: Cover potential legal repercussions if the sponsored individual violates visa conditions.

The Process of Becoming a Sponsor

The process of becoming a sponsor involves several important steps:

Filing the Petition: Guide through the initial step of filing a petition on behalf of the visa applicant, such as Form I-130 for family-based visas.

Documentation: List the documents that sponsors need to provide, including proof of income, citizenship, or legal residency.

Verification and Approval Process: Explain the process by which immigration authorities verify the sponsor’s eligibility and financial capacity.

Sponsor’s Role Post-Approval: Discuss the ongoing responsibilities of the sponsor after the visa is approved, including financial support and legal obligations.

Duration of Sponsorship Commitment

Understanding how long a sponsorship commitment lasts is critical for both sponsors and visa applicants:

Varied Duration: The length of the commitment can vary depending on the type of visa. For instance, in family-based immigration, the commitment generally lasts until the immigrant becomes a U.S. citizen or has worked for a certain number of years.

Conditions for Termination: Discuss conditions under which the sponsorship obligation can end, such as the beneficiary gaining citizenship, leaving the country permanently, or fulfilling specific legal work requirements.

Long-Term Implications: Emphasize the importance of understanding the long-term nature of the sponsorship commitment.

Sponsor’s Role in the Application Process

A sponsor plays a crucial part in the visa application process:

• Initial Petition: Detail the sponsor’s responsibility to initiate the process by filing the necessary petition, such as Form I-130 for family-based visas.
• Gathering Documentation: Discuss how sponsors must collect and submit relevant documentation to prove their eligibility and financial capability.
• Assistance and Guidance: Explain how sponsors can assist the beneficiary throughout the process, including preparation for interviews or addressing inquiries from immigration authorities.

Common Challenges Faced by Sponsors

Sponsors may face various challenges, such as changes in financial circumstances or navigating complex immigration laws . Sponsors need to stay informed and seek legal advice when necessary to overcome these challenges.

Sponsorship in Special Circumstances

Sponsors may encounter various challenges during the process:

Financial Burden: Address the potential financial strain, especially if the sponsor is supporting multiple immigrants.

Legal Responsibilities: Discuss challenges related to the legal obligations of sponsorship, including ensuring the immigrant complies with visa conditions.

Navigating Bureaucracy: Offer insight into the complexities of dealing with immigration authorities and processes.

The role of a visa sponsor is pivotal in the visa application process. It requires a deep understanding of legal responsibilities, financial commitments, and the willingness to support the applicant throughout their journey. For those considering taking on this role, it’s a path marked with responsibility and commitment, but it can be incredibly rewarding, paving the way for family reunions, career opportunities, and educational pursuits across borders.

This guide serves as an essential resource for anyone involved in the visa sponsorship process, ensuring they are well-equipped to handle the responsibilities and navigate the complexities of international travel and immigration.

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Sponsor Letter for US Visa: Crafting a Compelling Letter

• by Zachary Strebeck

A well-crafted sponsor letter is essential for a successful U.S. visa application, as it clarifies the relationship between the sponsor and applicant, demonstrates financial stability, and explains the visit’s purpose.

To create a compelling letter, include key elements such as the sponsor’s personal information, financial documents, and a clear commitment to supporting the visitor.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through the critical components of a sponsor letter, providing tips and examples to help you increase your chances of visa approval.

Purpose of the Sponsor Letter

A sponsor letter ( or letter of support or support letter) is a document that is critical to getting your immigration petitions approved. It is used primarily to substantiate a foreign national worker’s reason for entering the United States, signifying that someone within the country is vouching for the applicant’s stay. The sponsor letter serves to:

• Clarify the relationship between the host and the visa applicant.
• Establish responsibility for the applicant’s wellbeing during their stay.
• Demonstrate financial stability of the sponsor to support the visitor.

Often, consular officers consider sponsor letters to gauge the intentions and circumstances of both the host and the visitor.

For tourist visa applications, the sponsor must present evidence of their ability to support the visitor, such as recent pay stubs or a US bank account verification letter . The letter also includes personal information of both the sponsor and the visitor, including passport details and the sponsor’s immigration status, whether they are a United States citizen or legal permanent resident .

For work visas, a sponsorship letter from an employer indicates a binding job offer and ensures that the visa authorities are aware of the employment agreement.

Essential Elements in a Sponsor Letter:

• Full name and contact details of the host
• Full name and nationality of the applicant
• Relationship to the applicant
• Sponsor’s legal status in the U.S.
• Financial documentation and commitment
• Plans for the visitor’s stay
• Length of sponsorship

It is crucial that the sponsor letter be detailed, honest, and straightforward , as it plays a significant role in the visa approval process.

Sponsor’s Information

When crafting a sponsorship letter for a US visa, the sponsor’s details are crucial. These are the elements that should be included to establish credibility and support the visa application effectively:

• Full Name: The sponsor must provide their complete legal name as recognized by the government.
• Relationship to the Applicant: Clearly state how the sponsor is related to the visitor, whether as a family member, friend, or employer.
• Citizenship or Legal Status: The sponsor must specify whether they are a US citizen or lawful permanent resident, including any relevant documentation.
• Contact Information: Provide a current address, phone number, and email to facilitate contact with the consular office.
• Financial Information: An assertion of the sponsor’s financial ability to support the visitor for the duration of their stay, often accompanied by bank statements or tax returns as evidence.
• Employment Details: If the sponsor is employed, a statement from their employer on company letterhead may be required, describing the nature and status of the employment.
• Purpose of Sponsorship: Outline the reason for sponsoring the individual’s visit, whether for tourism, family visit, or business.
• Legal Undertaking: The sponsor should acknowledge their understanding of the fiscal responsibilities and potential legal implications involved in supporting the visitor’s stay.

For a comprehensive view of a sponsorship letter that effectively encompasses all these elements, your immigration attorney can help you to put one together or review what you’ve drafted.

Applicant’s Details

When preparing a sponsor letter for a US visa, it’s crucial to accurately detail the applicant’s personal information. This shows the visa officer the legitimate connection between the sponsor and the applicant as well as the purpose of the visit, which can strongly affect the outcome of the visa application process.

Relationship to Sponsor

The Applicant’s Details section begins with the “Relationship to Sponsor.” It is essential to clearly state how the applicant is connected to the sponsor.

This could include being a family member (e.g., parent, sibling, or child), a friend , or a business associate . The specific nature of the relationship should be identified, as it sets the context for the sponsorship and the visit.

Reason for Visit

Next, the “Reason for Visit” must be explicitly laid out. This includes specifying whether the visit is for pleasure , such as tourism or family events, or for business purposes , like attending meetings or conferences.

The details of the visit provide assurance that the applicant has a clear plan and intent to return to their home country after the trip.

The letter might state whether the visit is to see family, to explore the United States, or to engage in a particular activity, and should align with the rest of the application to show consistency and transparency.

Sponsorship Commitment

When sponsoring someone for a US visa, the sponsor needs to provide a letter of commitment , which underscores the promise to financially support the visa applicant during their visit.

The key responsibilities outlined in this letter are critical for visa approval, and it serves as a testimony to the consular officer that the visitor has adequate means of support while in the United States.

Essential Elements:

• Full name and relationship : The sponsor must clearly state their full name, date of birth, address, and the nature of their relationship to the visa applicant.
• Financial documents : It is imperative to include financial evidence, such as bank statements or tax returns, to demonstrate the sponsor’s economic capacity to support the visitor.

The letter should emphasize the sponsor’s understanding of their obligations, which involves assuring the visitor’s maintenance and repatriation costs if necessary. An explicit statement vowing that the visitor will maintain legal status and depart prior to visa expiration is desirable.

Sponsors are advised to be aware of the commitment involved, as it might include more than just financial support; in some scenarios, it might require legal obligations.

Your immigration attorney can help with crafting a sponsorship letter for a US Visa and can inform sponsors about the process. Understanding these commitments can help ensure that both the sponsor and the visa applicant have a smooth experience with the visa application process.

Supporting Documents

When applying for a US visa, providing supporting documents is crucial. They offer verifiable evidence of the sponsor’s financial capability and the genuine relationship between the sponsor and the visa applicant.

Proof of Sponsor’s Financial Stability

A sponsor must submit financial documents that attest to their financial health. This often includes:

• Bank Statements : Two recent statements to show current balance and financial history.
• Employment Verification : Recent pay stubs and an employment letter less than six months old.
• Tax Documents : Copies of recent federal income tax returns or W2 forms provide a record of earnings and tax filings.

Evidence of Relationship

Proving the relationship between the sponsor and the visa applicant is essential. Documentation may consist of:

• Photographs : To demonstrate a personal connection.
• Correspondence : Letters, emails, and messages that reflect ongoing communication.
• Legal Documents : Relevant forms such as marriage certificates or birth certificates that establish a family relationship.

Closing Statements

When drafting the closing statements of a sponsorship letter for a U.S. visa, the sponsor should reiterate their commitment to supporting the visa applicant.

It’s crucial to emphasize their understanding of the legal obligations involved with sponsorship. The tone should convey certainty and sincerity.

They should briefly summarize the key points:

• Affirmation of the sponsor’s stable financial status
• Assurance of the applicant’s intent to abide by U.S. immigration laws
• Promise to ensure the visitor will not become a public charge

In closing, the sponsor needs to offer their contact information, confirming availability for further correspondence or verification. They should also express their readiness to provide additional documentation if required.

The closing part usually ends with a formal sign-off, such as “Sincerely” or “Respectfully,” followed by the sponsor’s full name, signature, and date.

The sponsor must remember to:

• Maintain a formal and respectful tone
• Include their full legal name
• Provide their signature for authenticity

Wrapping Up

A sponsor letter is an integral part of any visa application. Need help preparing one, or with the work visa process in general? Contact our firm to discuss it further !

Frequently Asked Questions

What information should i include in a sponsor letter for a visitor visa to the usa.

A sponsor letter for a visitor visa should clearly state the sponsor’s full name, date of birth, address and contact details, relationship to the visitor, and a pledge to financially support the visitor during their stay. It must also outline the purpose of the visit, the duration, and where the visitor will stay.

How can I demonstrate financial responsibility in a sponsor letter for a U.S. visa application?

To demonstrate financial responsibility in a sponsor letter, include evidence such as bank statements, pay stubs, a letter from the bank, and income tax returns. These documents prove the sponsor’s financial stability and ability to support the foreign national (if coming on an employment-based visa)

Which supporting documents are necessary when submitting a sponsorship letter for a U.S. visa?

When submitting a sponsorship letter, necessary supporting documents include proof of the sponsor’s citizenship or legal residency, financial documents, the visitor’s identification, proof of the sponsor’s relationship with the visitor, and any previous correspondence with the USCIS, if applicable.

Zachary Strebeck

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B1/B2 Visa: Who is your sponsor and what are their income sources?

Embarking on the journey to acquire a US Visitor Visa (B1/B2 Visa) is a process that involves preparation and understanding of the expectations of the visa interview. One significant question that many applicants encounter is, "Who is your sponsor and what are their income sources?". In this guide, we'll simplify this question, explain its significance, and provide a blueprint on how to answer it effectively.

Understanding the Sponsor Question

Before diving into the how-to, it's vital to understand why this question is asked:

Affirmation of Financial Support: The US consulate wants assurance that you or your sponsor can bear your expenses during your stay, preventing you from becoming a financial liability.

Genuine Intent Verification : A reliable sponsor indicates your intention to return after your visit, reducing the risk of overstaying.

Connection with the US : It assesses any ties your sponsor might have with the US, further offering insights into your travel motives.

Steps to Answering "Who is Your Sponsor and What Are Their Income Sources?"

Be Clear & Direct: Clarity is crucial. If you have a sponsor, state their full name and relationship to you. If you're self-sponsored, specify that.

Offer Detailed Income Sources : Describe the primary sources of your or your sponsor's income. This could be a business, a job, investments, etc.

Documentary Proof : Always have relevant documents like bank statements, tax returns, or employment letters as they might be requested for verification.

Maintain Consistency : Ensure your response aligns with the information provided in your visa application to avoid discrepancies.

Example Answers & Contextual Insights

1. Self-Sponsorship:

Answer: "I am sponsoring my trip. I work as a Software Developer at XYZ Corporation, and my primary income source is my salary from this job. Additionally, I have some investments in mutual funds which provide returns annually."

Insight: This answer is straightforward, stating the applicant's occupation and the primary source of income. Mentioning an additional source like investments offers depth and provides a clearer picture of financial stability.

2. Relative as a Sponsor:

Answer: "My brother, John Doe, is sponsoring my trip. He is based in California and works as a Civil Engineer with ABC Constructions. His major income source is his job, but he also has rental income from properties he owns in San Francisco."

Insight: Here, the relationship with the sponsor is defined, followed by details about the sponsor's occupation and income sources. This comprehensive approach ensures transparency.

3. Business or Corporate Sponsorship:

Answer: "I'm being sponsored by my employer, Tech Solutions Pvt. Ltd. The company's primary revenue is from software services rendered to clients globally. They've taken care of all expenses related to this US trip for a tech conference."

Insight: Corporate sponsorships are common for business trips. Specifying the company's primary source of revenue and the reason for sponsorship (like attending a conference) makes the intent of the visit crystal clear.

Potential Variations of the Sponsorship Question

1. "How is your sponsor related to you?"

Approach: Answer directly, describing the relationship, whether familial or corporate.

Example: "She's my maternal aunt."

2. "How does your sponsor earn money?"

Approach: Detail the primary income sources without over-complicating.

Example: "He runs a chain of grocery stores across Texas."

3. "Can you provide proof of your sponsor's income?"

Approach: Affirm and show relevant documents, ensuring they're up-to-date.

Example: "Yes, here's the recent bank statement and income tax returns of my sponsor."

Answering the "Who is your sponsor and what are their income sources?" question during your US Tourist Visa or B1/B2 Visa interview doesn't have to be daunting. By being prepared, offering clear and direct answers, and ensuring your responses are consistent with your application details, you set yourself up for a smooth visa interview experience. Remember, the goal is to assure the US consulate of your genuine intent to visit and the financial capability (either by yourself or through a sponsor) to support your stay.

Delve deeper into similar topics with these blogs below:

B1/B2 Tourist Visa Series

B1/B2 Visa Interview: Top 10 US Visitor Visa Questions

B1/B2 Visa: How long do you plan to stay in US?

B1/B2 Visa: What are your plans after the visit?

B1/B2 Visa: Why do you want to travel to the US?

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Temporary visa to work in the U.S.

Learn about the requirements to apply for a nonimmigrant temporary worker visa and to sponsor a worker for employment in the U.S.

Find out if you qualify for a temporary worker nonimmigrant visa

Before you apply for any of these visas, your prospective employer must first file a petition with the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on your behalf. After your employer’s petition is approved, you will be able to apply for a temporary work visa.

Find information about temporary worker visas and learn about the professions that qualify for the different classifications.

Find the description in the table that corresponds to the job you want to do in the U.S.

Select the classification number.

Read about the eligibility requirements and the application process for that visa classification. 

How to sponsor a temporary worker

To hire a temporary (nonimmigrant) worker, you generally have to file a petition with USCIS to allow the employee to come to the U.S.

• Use this temporary (nonimmigrant) worker classification table to see which classification applies to the job you are offering.
• After determining the classification, refer to the Form I-129, Petition for Nonimmigrant Worker page. It lists the classifications that require employers to submit the form to USCIS.

LAST UPDATED: December 15, 2023

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Home » Visas » USA Tourist Visa » Visitors Visa Sponsorship

Can a USA Tourist Visa Be Sponsored?

Some people ask whether a tourist visa for the US can really be sponsored.

Since 1999, immihelp ® .com has provided excellent, comprehensive, and detailed information about how people living in the US can show that they are willing to financially help when their relatives visit the US. These relatives may be unable to take care of their expenses for the US trip themselves. Hundreds of thousands of people have benefited from such information. 

However, recently, a few people on various immigration discussion forums have been spreading the word that a tourist visa can never be sponsored, and is always self-sponsored. They additionally maintain that if the visitor can not take care of the trip expenses himself/herself, they should not be allowed to visit the US. 

Well, that is absolutely not the case. 

In that case, is the information on immihelp.com outdated? Of course not. Are they wrong? Well, we will try to clarify the confusion raised by some people. 

What is US visa sponsorship?

Traditionally, a US visa sponsorship has been associated with an employer or close family member filing an immigration petition with the US government. This would be for obtaining a green card for their employee or close family member. It has also been associated with certain nonimmigrant petitions such as a work visa (e.g., H, L visa) as well as a family visa (e.g., Fiancé or K visa). In all of those petitions, the petitioner initiates the process by requesting the US government to grant the immigration benefit to the beneficiary. In that process, among other things, the petitioner, which is either an employer or family member, shows to the US government that they have enough financial resources to either pay the employee or take care of the expenses of the family member. Without such sponsorship, the beneficiary is unable to get the immigration benefit.

What is different in a US tourist visa?

When people apply for a tourist visa (visitors visa), among other things, they have to show that they have strong ties to their home country and that they intend to return to their home country after their temporary stay in the US. They also have to show that there is enough money available to take care of the expenses for their US trip such as air tickets , visitors insurance , lodging/boarding, transportation expenses, tourism expenses and all other expenses. 

However, there is absolutely no requirement that only the visitors themselves have to come up with that money and that they must have their own money to fund the US trip. For example, there are many elderly parents in India who are genuine visitors to the US, but don’t have the finances to fund their own trip. However, they have their son or daughter that lives in the US who can very well fund their trip. There is absolutely nothing wrong in a US relative showing proof that he or she has enough money to take care of their parents’ or in-laws’ trip to the US. To show that they are sincere about it and to also show the proof of the same, they fill the  Form I-134, Affidavit of Support , and  provide other supporting documents.  This is to show their income and savings to convince the visa officer that the helping relative indeed has that kind of money. 

Since the process of showing proof of financial ability and willingness to support is the same either way, we have called this process sponsoring the visitors visa and that is the terminology that is being widely used. It does not matter whether you call these documents ‘sponsor documents’, ‘financial help to the visitor’, ‘provide financial support’, or anything else, it is the same in any case. 

Because the name or any other information of such a helper/support is not written anywhere on the visa stamp, there is no petition, and as it is not required for every visitor to find such a supporter or helper (in case they can support themselves), some people claim that a visitors visa can’t be sponsored, which is not entirely correct. Of course, it is very well understood that if the visitors can show that they can financially take care of the trip themselves, it is always better to do so, as being financially well-off can be one of the ties to the home country. However, that is not an absolute requirement that they must always do so, and that if they are unable to do so, they can’t get a visitors visa. 

Visa vs Trip

To put in other words, ‘Visa’ is not sponsored, but ‘trip’ is sponsored, if that makes any of the doubters more comfortable. Anybody can pay for the expenses. In fact, there are three distinct questions in  DS-160 Form : contact person in the US, who are you visiting, and who is paying for your trip. They can all be different (although it is better to have the first and second person as the same). The person you are visiting (who is a sponsor) should be of legal status in the US and that does not mean having a valid Visa, but a valid I-94, green card, or US citizenship. Questions in the DS-160 alone are enough proof that others can pay for the trip expenses of the visitors, if they themselves are unable to do so. If it were not allowed, there would be no such questions in the first place.

It is also possible to have the funds provided by one relative in the Visa application and subsequent trips (using the same Visa) are funded by a different relative. The first relative may not even be in the US anymore. 

Matter of Interpretation or Intent

It is really up to various people on immigration forums whether they are genuinely interested in helping such genuine visitors or they would like to spread misinformation and scare them away. When some company sponsors an event or show, do they really file a petition somewhere? No. They just provide financial help. In other words, the sponsorship word is not strictly limited to filing a petition but is used in a wider context to help someone with something. If anyone still has a doubt about the meaning of the English word ‘sponsor’, they should refer to any reputed dictionary.

Additionally, please keep in mind that US consular officers are among the smartest people in the world. For example, they deal with over a thousand applicants every day at each consulate in India. They absolutely know what is going on with so many visitors visa applicants. Hundreds of thousands of visitors get visitors visas every year in such a manner. 

In short, whatever name you call, relatives in the US are always allowed to financially help their relatives visit the US. 

Therefore, be confident when you “sponsor” your relatives to visit the US.

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Before Interview

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• Consulate Security Measures Attending Interview Fingerprint Collection Case Studies Interview - General Guide Interview Preparation Tips Sample Questions/Answers More Topics

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