Family in the U.S.

Whether you are bringing family to the U.S. for a visit or to live here while you are attending school, there are some requirements you will need to follow.

  • F-1 students adding a dependent to their SEVIS I-20 record, refer to the F-2 Dependent page for more information.
  • J-1 students/researchers adding a dependent to their SEVIS DS-2019 record, refer to the J Status page for more information.

Inviting Relatives and Friends: B-2 Tourist Visa

Many students wish to invite friends and family for a short visit to the United States. The B-2 visitor visa is a good choice for visits of 6 months or fewer in duration or for family members who do not qualify for an F-2 or J-2 dependent visa (such as parents, siblings, cousins, etc.). 

The most important part of the B-2 visa application at the U.S. Embassy of Consulate abroad will be the applicant's demonstration of ties to the home country (see additional information about the B-2 Visa below), the short duration of the trip, planned return to the home country, and the ability to cover expenses.

Visa applicants must qualify on the basis of the applicant's residence and ties abroad, rather than assurances from U.S. family and friends. A letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a visitor visa. If you choose to bring a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support to your interview, please remember it is NOT one of the factors used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa. If you still need a letter, see 'Letter of Invitation' on steps to write a letter.

Refer to the Department of State website for more information on what is required for a visa interview: DOS B1/B2 Visa Websitepage for more information.

To facilitate the process of applying for a B-1/B-2 visitor visa, students or scholars can do the following (optional):

Additional Information for a B-2 Visa

Contact Us:

Ivanhoe International Center
South Dakota Mines
501 E Saint Joseph Street
Rapid City, SD  57701-3995
Email: International@sdsmt.edu
Phone: 1.605.394.6884
FAX: 1.605.394.6883
WhatsApp and Google: 1.605.388.2003
Skype: sdsmt.international

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