Overview: the United States Family Visa
A visa to join a spouse, partner, parent or child who is a citizen or resident. Approval rests on proving a genuine relationship and meeting income or sponsorship thresholds.
The US runs one of the world's most scrutinised visa systems, built around the in-person consular interview and Section 214(b) — the legal presumption that every applicant intends to immigrate until they prove otherwise.
Who this visa is for
Reuniting with a partner or close family member living abroad. Often 2–5 years initially, leading to settlement or citizenship.
Key things to know about applying in United States
- Most nonimmigrant applicants attend an in-person interview at a US embassy or consulate.
- The B-1/B-2 visitor visa covers both business and tourism on one document.
- Strong ties to your home country are the single most important factor in approval.
- DS-160 is the universal online application form for nonimmigrant visas.
The application process, step by step
- Confirm you meet the eligibility criteria and choose the correct visa category.
- Gather your documents and check them against the official requirements.
- Complete and submit the official application and pay the required fees.
- Attend biometrics and, where required, the visa interview.
- Track your application and prepare for travel once approved.
Common reasons applications are refused
- Insufficient evidence that the relationship is genuine and subsisting.
- Sponsor income below the financial requirement.
- Incomplete documentation of the sponsor’s status.
How VisaMet helps
VisaMet checks whether you qualify for the United States Family Visa, screens your documents against the official checklist, and — where an interview applies — lets you rehearse with a realistic mock officer. A personalised timeline keeps every deadline on track.
VisaMet provides preparation guidance, not legal advice. Always confirm current requirements with the official source before applying.