Pakistani parents visiting children in the USA usually apply for a B2 visitor visa. The child can invite and support them, but the decision depends mainly on the parents' own circumstances: their purpose, finances, health cover and ties to Pakistan. A clear, limited trip, such as a graduation, a new grandchild or a holiday, with a realistic return date is more convincing than an open-ended stay.
Who this applies to
This guide is for mothers and fathers in Pakistan whose son or daughter is in the USA as a student, worker, green card holder or U.S. citizen. Parents usually travel for a graduation, the birth of a grandchild, a wedding or a family visit.
What your child in the USA can do
- Send an invitation letter with their address, status and the purpose and dates of your visit.
- Provide a copy of their passport, visa, green card or naturalisation certificate.
- If they are paying, provide evidence of their income or funds.
An invitation helps explain your purpose, but it does not guarantee a visa. Your own circumstances matter most.
What parents need to show
- Purpose: the event and dates, such as a graduation ceremony or expected delivery date.
- Finances: your income, pension, savings, property or the child's support.
- Ties: home, property, other children or family in Pakistan, business or job, and responsibilities.
- Travel history: previous trips abroad and returns help.
- Health cover: U.S. medical costs are very high, so arranging travel health insurance is strongly advised for older visitors.
See the full USA B1/B2 document checklist.
Interview questions parents are often asked
- "Who is in the USA? What do they do? What is their status?"
- "Why are you going and how long will you stay?"
- "Who will pay for the trip?"
- "Who else is in Pakistan? Who will look after your home?"
- "Have you travelled abroad before?"
Answer simply and truthfully. If you prefer Urdu, you can ask for interpretation. See our interview questions guide.
How long can parents stay?
The visa itself does not set your stay. The length of each visit is decided by U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the airport when you enter, and is commonly up to six months for B2 visitors. Plan a stay that matches your purpose and your commitments at home, and never overstay.
Common mistakes parents make
- Saying they will stay "as long as needed" or "until the baby grows up".
- Relying only on the child's documents, with no evidence of their own life in Pakistan.
- Not knowing basic facts about the child's job, studies or status.
- Answers that differ from the DS-160, especially about who is paying.
Frequently asked questions
Can my son with a green card invite me on a visit visa?
Yes. He can send an invitation and supporting documents, but you must show your own purpose, finances and ties to Pakistan.
Can both parents apply together?
Yes. Parents can apply and attend the interview together. Each needs their own DS-160 and fee.
How long can parents stay in the USA on a B2 visa?
The stay is decided at entry by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, commonly up to six months. Plan a realistic stay and leave on time.
Is travel health insurance required for parents?
It is not usually a visa requirement, but it is strongly recommended because U.S. medical treatment is very expensive.
This guide is general information for Pakistani applicants, not legal advice. Visa rules are set by the U.S. government and can change; confirm current details on official U.S. government sources. Visa decisions are made only by consular officers.