If you are traveling to America on a tourist visa for the first time, it's good to know a bit about American culture. Americans like doing their own thing, being on time, and having some space to themselves. When you eat at a restaurant, it's normal to leave a 15-22% tip to say thanks. People there often chat a bit and might ask, "How are you?" to be friendly. The US is diverse, so it's important to respect different ways of thinking. Learn about local traditions, like holding doors for others. Just be open-minded, friendly, and smiling, and stay chill about the differences you might find. Table of Contents: Traveling to America for the First Time US Customs Jet Lag Greeting Culture Tipping Culture Measurements Emergency Services Driving in the US Public Transportation Things to Know About USA US Customs When traveling from India to the US, there are a few things you should avoid bringing to avoid customs issues. It's a good idea not to carry firearms, certain fruits and vegetables, animal products, and animal by-products. Also, avoid bringing plants, seeds, and some dairy products. Items like gold and silver beyond a certain limit might need to be declared. Be cautious with medicines as well; it's advisable to carry prescriptions for them. And, of course, any illegal substances are a big no-no. You can find the complete list of prohibited and restricted items on the CBP website . Jet Lag Traveling from India to the US might bring a thing called jet lag. Jet lag happens because your body needs time to adjust to the new time zone. The US has six time zones and it depends on which part of the US, you are traveling to. There is roughly a 12-hour difference between India and the US time zone. Jet lag can mess up your sleep and eating times. To help, adjust to the local time when you arrive, get sunlight, drink water, and try to sleep at US times. It takes a bit, approximately a week, but your body will catch up, and soon you'll be ready to enjoy your time in the US. Greeting Culture In the US, saying hello is pretty common. So when you reach the US, you will notice that people often greet each other with a simple "Hi" or "Hello". It's normal to use phrases like "How are you?" as a friendly way to start a conversation, even if it's just a quick chat. The expectation is not that you have to answer every time, even a smile in response is perfectly fine. Handshakes are common in more formal situations. Americans are cool with personal space, so keeping a comfortable distance during greetings is a good idea. Just be yourself, keep it friendly, and you'll fit right in! Tipping Culture When you're in the US, tipping is a common thing. In restaurants, it's good to leave a tip, usually around 15-22% of the bill. This is like a way of saying thanks to the waitstaff. Sometimes, taxicab drivers, hotel staff, hairdressers, and other service people also get tips. It's just a nice thing to do to show appreciation for good service. Here is the rule of thumb for tipping: 0-15% Tip - Poor service 15-22% Tip - Good service 22-25% Tip - Excellent service Measurements In the US, they measure things a bit differently than you do in India. Temperature: For example, when they talk about temperature, it's in Fahrenheit, not Celsius. So, if someone says it's 68°F (which is 20°C), it means it's not too hot or too cold, just a pleasant temperature. To convert Fahrenheit to Celsius, formula is: °C = (°F − 32) × 5/9, for example 0°C is 32°F 25°C is 77°F 37.7°C is 100°F ​ Speed: For speed, they use miles per hour (mph) instead of kilometers per hour (km/h). If you see speed limit signs, they'll be in mph. To convert miles per hour (mph) to kilometers per hour (kph), you can use this formula: kph = mph × 1.61 Weight: When it comes to weight, like in grocery stores or talking about body weight, they use pounds (lbs) instead of kilograms (kg). If someone says they weigh 150 lbs, that's their weight in pounds. To convert pounds (lbs) to kilograms (kg), you can use the conversion factor: kg = lbs × 0.45 Length: For measuring length, the most commonly used unit is feet in the US. Emergency Services In case of emergencies, the primary contact number is 911 for immediate assistance. You need to dial 911 from your phone (anywhere in the US). It's beneficial to be aware of the locations of nearby hospitals and clinics, ensuring that you're well-informed about where to seek help in unexpected situations. If you have specific medical conditions, it's advisable to purchase medical insurance before traveling, as healthcare services in the US can be costly. However, the decision to buy health insurance is not mandatory and depends on individual preferences. Driving in the US In the US, driving happens on the right side of the road, and cars are left-hand drive. This means the steering wheel is on the left side of the car, and you'll be driving on the right side of the road. It might feel a bit different if you're used to driving on the left like in India, but you'll get used to it. Also, driving in the lane is important. Do not blow a horn unless someone has made a mistake. Give preference to pedestrians and bike riders. In addition to driving on the right side of the road with a left-hand drive, there are a couple of other things to keep in mind while driving in the US. First, most gas stations are self-service, so you'll need to pump your gas. In the US, gas means petrol. Second, be aware of toll roads, especially on highways. Some roads require toll payments, and you might encounter toll booths or electronic toll collection systems. You can also avoid them by adding filters to your Google Maps. But in case you use toll roads, try to make the payment within 5 days otherwise you will be fined. And the fine is a lot, for example, for a 2$ toll, the fine will be 50$. For the first-time mistake usually, tolls waive the fine if you request them (call them) but why wait for that situation? Keep some cash or a card handy for toll payments, or pay them online by searching your vehicle number plate. Here are some commonly used terms which you will encounter: Freeways: High-speed, divided highways for long-distance travel. Ramp/Exits: An inclined entrance or exit, used to get on and off freeways. Avenue/Boulevard/Street: Different terms for roadways, with avenues often running north-south and boulevards east-west, while streets are general terms. Ct (Court): A short road typically ending in a cul-de-sac or loop. Bike Lane: Designated lanes for cyclists on the road, promoting bicycle safety and commuting. Gas station: Means petrol pump. Public Transportation If you prefer not to drive, public transportation options like buses, trains, and subways are also available, but sometimes they will be very limited. You will notice most of the people in the US rely on private transport like cars. However, if you have to travel by public transport, tickets can be purchased at stations or online/ apps, and it's essential to familiarize yourself with popular routes and bus schedules (you can find them on Google Maps). Different cities may have unique payment methods, so understanding the local public transport system will make your travel more convenient and efficient. Things to Know About USA No First Floor Concept: In the US, buildings often skip the "first floor". What might be called the first floor in India is labeled as the ground floor in the US. So, when you see a building with floors, remember, the first floor there is what you'd call the second floor in India. It's a little different! Ice in Drinks Everywhere: Americans often enjoy their drinks with a generous amount of ice, something you might find surprising if you're used to drinks without much or any ice in India. J-walking is a Thing: Jaywalking means crossing the street in the middle instead of using a crosswalk. If you decide to jaywalk, you could be breaking a rule. In India, it is quite common to do so. Drive-Through Everything: Americans love the convenience of drive-throughs. You can get fast food and coffee, and even do your banking without leaving your car. Flags Everywhere: The American flag is all around - on houses, cars, and clothes. You'll notice it more frequently compared to how flags are commonly seen in India. Saying Sorry a Lot: Americans apologize a bunch, even for little things. It's just part of being polite, and you might hear 'sorry' even when it's not necessary. Barbecues Any Day: Americans don't save barbecues for weekends. They'll grill up burgers and hot dogs even on a regular weekday. It's a year-round thing. Next: US Tourist Visa Related Posts ✔ B1/B2 visa interview questions ✔ B2 visa extension in the US ✔ Tourist visa rejection reasons Related Topics

The sponsor letter for parents for a US (B1/B2) tourist visa should include the sponsor's name, occupation, income, address, contact information, and the reason for sponsorship. Here, I am sharing the sponsor letter that I used for my parents' visitor visa to the US Consulate. Sponsorship Letter for Parents Tourist Visa (USA) Modify the highlighted fields according to your details. Please feel free to ask questions in the comment section below if you have any doubts about the sponsorship letter for a tourist visa in the USA. [Date] The U.S. Consulate General, [U.S. Consulate Address] Sub: Request for Visitor Visa (B1/B2) for my parents Dear Sir/Madam, I, [Sponsors Name] , work as a [Enter Occupation] at [Enter Company] located at [Company Address] . I would like to invite my parents, [Visitors/Fathers Name] and [Visitors/Mothers Name] residing at [Home Country Address] to visit me for [6 months] . The purpose of their travel to the U.S. is to visit me and visit some other tourist locations in America. During their visit, they will stay with me at my residential address listed below. I have enough funds in the bank to cover all the expenses related to my parents' visit to the U.S. I am employed full-time with an annual salary of [Enter Salary] per year. I will bear all their expenses: round trip airfare from New Delhi to the U.S., housing, flight tickets for travel within the U.S., health insurance , food, and all other personal expenses. I am enclosing the following supporting documents for visa issuance. Copy of I-797 [H1B] approval notice or [I-129S for L1] or [DS-2019 copy for J1] or [PR copy for Green card holders] Copy of passport and visa pages Latest I-94 form Employment verification letter Copy of the last three pay stubs Latest Bank statement for proof of funds ($10,000 or more): [Bank's Name] Invitation Letter Copy of spouse's passport (if you are sponsoring in-laws) Copy of marriage certificate (if you are sponsoring in-laws) I would appreciate it if you grant my parents [Enter Visitor Names] a US visitor visa (B-2) to visit me and visit other places in America. I will personally make sure that they leave the USA on time, before the expiration of their authorized stay. If you have any questions regarding this matter, please do not hesitate to contact me at [Enter Phone] . Thank you in advance for your time and consideration in this matter. Sincerely, [Sponsor's Name] [Signature] [Sponsor's Address] [Sponsor's Phone] Related: How to apply for B1/B2 visa for parents?   Once you have prepared the sponsorship letter for the consulate, I recommend writing an additional invitation letter for your parents, specifying the purpose of their visit, such as tourism, pregnancy, graduation ceremony, or any other relevant reason. Detailed information on the B1/B2 invitation letter can be found in the next blog post. Next: B1/B2 visa for parents Related Posts ✔ Understanding US culture before your first visit ✔ B1/B2 visa length of stay ✔ How to extend a B2 visa beyond 6 months? Related Topics

[Date] To, [Parent's Name] [Parent's Address] Subject: Invitation to visit the USA Dear Mom and Dad, I would like to invite you to the USA and stay with me for [3 months]. It would be very nice to have you with me here. During your stay, we would like to visit various tourist places in [Your State] such as [Example Tourist Locations]. During your stay in the United States, I will bear all your responsibilities, including but not limited to, financial commitments, air ticket fare to travel from India to the USA and back, travel expenses within the USA, medical insurance, housing, and food, and all your expenses. During your entire trip, you will stay with me at my house located at [Your Address]. I am sending you all the required documents: my passport copy, US visa, I-94, pay slips, proof of funds, etc. for you to apply for a US visitor’s visa (B-2) at the US Consulate in [Consulate Location]. During your stay here, you will also get an opportunity to see and experience Western culture, meet different kinds of people, and try a variety of food. You will also enjoy the nice weather that we have here in [Your City, State] . I am looking forward to seeing you here. With Love, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Contact Number] Below, I am sharing a few more B1/B2 visa invitation letter samples for parents to visit the USA. However, it's not compulsory to mention these reasons, and tourism alone is generally sufficient with the highest success rate in obtaining approval for a US tourist visa. I would recommend sticking to tourism as the reason for travel. Related: Sponsorship letter for the US tourist visa Table of Contents: Invitation letter for parents to visit USA (visitor visa) Invitation letter for parents to visit the USA Inviting parents to the USA for pregnancy Sample invitation letter for visitor visa for parents to consulate For graduation ceremony How to write an invitation letter for a parent's visa How to Write an Invitation Letter for a US Visa B1/B2 appointment wait times , and locations B2 visa interview questions for parents B1/B2 visa rejection rate Parents' visa interview questions B1/B2 documents checklist for interview DS-160 photo requirements DS-160 validity B1/B2 visa duration/ max stay period Buying Health Insurance FAQs on B1/B2 visas Sample Invitation Letter for Parents to Visit USA for Pregnancy [Date] To, [Parent's Name] [Parent's Address] Subject: Invitation Letter for Parents to Visit the USA Dear Mom and Dad , I am writing to invite you to share in the joy of our pregnancy. As you know, [partner’s name] and I are expecting a baby in [month, year] , and we would be honored if you could be part of this special time in our lives. We are grateful for your love and support, and we believe that your presence during this time will bring us comfort and joy. We would love for you to be a part of the pregnancy journey, from attending prenatal appointments with us to sharing the excitement of baby showers and other celebrations. Throughout your trip of [4 months] , you will be staying at my residence located at [address] . I am sending you all the required documents: my passport copy, US visa, I-94, pay slips, and proof of funds for you to apply for a visitor's visa (B-2) at the US Consulate in [Consulate location] . We know that you will be wonderful grandparents and we can’t wait to see you. Your presence and support will be invaluable to us as we prepare for this new chapter in our lives. Thank you for your love and support, and we look forward to sharing this exciting journey with you. Warmest regards, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Contact Number] Sample Invitation Letter for Visitor Visa for Parents to Consulate [Date] To, The U.S. Consulate General, U.S. embassy [Shantipath] [Chanakya Puri, New Delhi, 110021] Sub: Request for Visitor Visa (B1/B2) for my parents Dear Sir/Madam, I am, [Your name] , working as [Your profession] at [Company's name, location] . I would like to invite my parents, [Father's full name] and [Mother's full name] residing at [Home country complete address] to visit me for about [2-3 months, do not exceed 6 months] . The purpose of their travel to the US is to visit me and visit some other tourist locations in the United States of America. During their visit, they will stay with me at my residential address mentioned at the end. I have enough funds in the bank to cover all the expenses related to my parent's visit to the US. I am employed full-time with an annual salary of [xxx, xxx $] per year. I will bear all their expenses: round trip airfare from [Your city, India] to the USA, housing, flight tickets for travel within the US, health insurance, food, and all other personal expenses. I am enclosing the following documents for visa issuance: Copy of my passport Copy of my [Permanent resident card, or other legal document] Copy of my latest three salary slips Proof of funds from bank [Bank's name] Copies of 2 months of my bank statements I would appreciate it if you could kindly grant my parents a US visitor visa (B-2) to visit me and visit other places in the USA. I will personally make sure that they leave the USA on time, before the expiration of their authorized stay. Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any questions. Thank you, Sincerely, [Signature] [Your name] [US full address] Mobile number: +1 (123)-(456)-(7890) Email address: [Your email ] Sample Invitation Letter for US Visa for Parents for Graduation [Date] To, [Parent's Name] [Parent's Address] Subject: Invitation to visit for my graduation ceremony Dear Mom and Dad, I hope this letter finds you both in good health and spirits. I am excited to announce that my graduation ceremony is coming up soon, and I would be honored if you could attend and stay here for [a month] . As you know, this is a very important moment for me, and it would mean the world to have you by my side on this special day. The ceremony will be held on [insert date], at [insert time], at [insert location] . I am proud of all the hard work and dedication that has gone into achieving this milestone, and I would love to share this experience with you. Because of your love, support, and encouragement, I have come this far, and I could not have done it without you. Please let me know as soon as possible if you attend, so I can make the necessary arrangements. I am looking forward to seeing you both and celebrating together. Thank you for everything you do for me. I love you both very much. With love and gratitude, [Your Name] [Your Address] [Your Contact Number] How to Write an Invitation Letter for a Parents Visa Ensure you include the following details if you write the invitation letter for parents yourself. These are not compulsory but nice to include so that your parents can get a tourist visa in one shot. The letter should be in English. It should have the name of your parents and their relationship with you - father, mother, in-laws. Purpose of their visit like tourism, graduation ceremony, etc. Dates of their stay with the approximate length of visit. Location of their visit like where are they staying, with you or hotel, etc. Proof of funds like how their visit will be funded, who will be funding, etc. Related: How to extend a B2 tourist visa beyond 6 months? Invitation Letter for US Visitor Visa In general, If you're writing an invitation letter for a US visa for parents, family members, or friends applying for a US visitor visa, keep these six points in mind to make your invitation letter effective and well-prepared. Language: The letter must be written in English. Invited Person : Include the full name of the person being invited. Mention your relationship with the invited person (friend, brother, sister, family, etc.). Purpose of Visit: Clearly state the reason for their visit (tourism, medical treatment, family event, etc.). Dates of Stay: Provide the approximate dates of their stay in the US and duration of stay. Remember it should be beyond 6 months in one stretch. Location of Visit: Specify where the invited person will be staying during their visit. Proof of Funds: Explain how their visit will be financially supported. Mention who will be funding their expenses (you, themself, etc.). B1/B2 Visa Appointment Wait Time India As of Jun 26, 2024, the current appointment wait time for the B1/B2 visa for India is shown below. The waiting time for US visitor visa appointments can fluctuate significantly, ranging from a few weeks to several months depending on your visit's time of year and location. You can check the current US visa appointment wait times on the US Department of State website . Just enter the city where you intend to attend the interview, and the current appointment wait time will be displayed for various visa types. You need to look at the B1/B2 visitor visa wait time. U.S. Embassy Locations If you're unsure about the location of the US embassy near you, you can easily find the details on the US embassy website . Just enter your location, and it will provide you with the physical address and contact information for the nearest US embassy. If you're unable to locate the embassy, simply scroll down on the US embassy website, and you'll find a list of locations arranged alphabetically. Related: How to expedite green card processing? B2 Visa Interview Questions for Parents Now that you know where and when to attend the interview, it's essential to engage in basic interview preparation. During the B1/B2 visa interview, the officer may ask you a range of questions. You can read about this in detail in the following blog. Related : B2 visa interview questions for parents However, before we dive into B1/B2 visa interview questions, it's important to understand why you need to prepare for the B1/B2 visa interview, that is where understanding the US visa rejection rate becomes important. B1/B2 Visa Rejection Rate In the fiscal year 2023, the US tourist visa rejection rate for India stood at 10.99%. However, a few years ago, the refusal rate for India was over 25%, indicating that 1 out of 4 tourist visa applications was rejected. Below, you'll find details of the adjusted rejection rates for US tourist visas over the past 5 years. B1/B2 Visa Rejection Rate (India) Rejection Rate 2023 10.99% 2022 6.54% 2021 12.25% 2020 ​27.26% 2019 ​27.75% 2018 26.07% The first table is about India, and the second table is for other countries. You can find complete details on the US Department of State website. B1/B2 Visa Rejection Rate By Country Rejection Rate (FY 2022) Rejection Rate (FY 2023) ​Russia 26.18% 39.49% France ​12.55% 10.11% China 30.39% 26.63% Mexico 5.91% 10.57% Brazil 14.48% 11.94% Thailand 24.36% 24.34% Philippines ​11.59% 23.93% Australia ​12.55% 16.75% Canada ​58.33% 52.04% Germany 11.69% 10.84% Parents' Visa Interview Questions It's important to answer the visa interview questions honestly and wherever possible provide documents to support your answers. Be prepared to explain the purpose of your visit and provide evidence that you intend to return to your home country after your visit. Length of stay: How long do you plan to stay in the US? Do you have a return ticket booked? Tip: If you already have a return ticket booked, it's good to keep a copy of the tickets during your interview. Also, in general, keep in mind that you can not stay beyond 6 months in one stretch. Refer this . Purpose of travel: What do you plan to do during your US trip? Will you be traveling for pleasure or business? Tip: Remember that B1 is a business visa and B2 is a tourism visa. Tell them you will visit family, grandkids, or whatever reason you have, just be honest with your answer. Accommodation: Where will you be staying while you are in the US? Tip: Try to memorize the city at least where you will stay during your visit, if possible keep the complete address handy on a piece of paper if you can't remember it. Usually, parents forget the address. Or, just keep the sponsorship letter handy to indicate the address. Employment and financial situation: Are you employed? Who is paying for your trip to the US? Tip: If you are working, just explain what you do and how much you earn, and keep a copy of the latest bank statement if possible which has sufficient funds to show. If you are a public servant you might need an NOC (No Objection Certificate) from your department. If you are not working, explain who is sponsoring your visit. Keep a copy of the sponsorship letter handy. Refer this . Criminal record: Do you have any pending criminal charges? Have you ever been convicted of a crime? Tip: Answer honestly and explain if you have something to disclose. Travel or Immigration history: Have you traveled to the US or any other countries before? Tip: Again, answer honestly if you have any travel history. Keep your old passport with you even if it's expired. Medical history: Do you have any medical conditions that may require treatment while you are in the US? Tip: It's not mandatory to have health insurance before you travel but if you have some serious medical condition it's wise to buy health insurance and keep a copy of insurance details to show it to the officer. Related: How to apply for H4 EAD? Other B2 Visa Interview Questions for Parents What does your son/daughter do in the US? Where do they work? Do you have family or property in your home country? Evidence of ties to your home country. What is your educational background? Have you ever been refused a visa to any country? If so, provide details. Have you ever overstayed a visa or been in the US illegally? Read more about interview questions B2 Visa Documents Checklist for Parents (for Interview) The B2 visa document checklist may vary slightly based on sponsors' immigration status in the US, such as being on H1B, L1, J1, or F1 visas, or being a permanent resident/green card holder. Documents (from the sponsoring party) that parents should carry during the visa interview are: Latest 3 months of pay stubs Latest bank statement for the proof of funds Copy of employment verification letter Copy of passport and visa pages Copy of latest I-94 Copy of valid I-129S for L1, DS2019 for J1, I-797A for H1B, I-20 for F1, or green card for PR holders Invitation letter Sponsorship letter Documents (belonging to my parents) that I requested them to bring for the interview are: Parents' original passport with 6 months of minimum validity Expired old passports (if any) DS-160 confirmation page ( unexpired ) Appointment confirmation page Employment letter and NOC (if parents are working) Bank statement with sufficient balance Documents such as the Aadhar card, PAN card, and utility bills (I have asked my parents to bring all the relevant identification they can) Accommodation details (sponsorship letter would fulfill this requirement) My parents, family members, and in-laws have traveled to the US multiple times, and this B2 visa document checklist should be sufficient. However, I would recommend checking the official website in case there have been any changes to the rules. DS-160 Photo Requirements (B2 Visa) Whether you need to bring a photo or not varies from country to country, based on the DS-160 Photo Requirements. If you have photographs, it's advisable to carry them with you during the biometric and interview processes. For example, if you are applying for a US tourist visa from India, there is no need to upload or carry a passport-size photograph. On the DS-160 page, it's mentioned that " Photo will be taken at ASC ", application service center. So your photograph and fingerprints will be taken during biometrics which is before the actual interview. But again, if you have extra photos, it's okay to bring them to the ASC. Another example is if you are applying for a US tourist visa from Italy, you'll need to upload a recent digital passport-size photograph. Irrespective of the fact of where you are applying, if you are planning to bring photos, you can find the requirements on the U.S. Department of State website. These photos should be passport-size, measuring 2 by 2 inches, with an off-white background. DS-160 Validity The first step in a tourist visa application is to fill out the DS-160 form . Filling out the DS-160 form is an online process, and there is no payment required for this step. Many of us are unaware that the DS-160 form remains valid for only a year from the completion date. You can locate the 'completion date' on the 'confirmation page,' which is generated after electronically submitting and signing the DS-160 form. These days there is a huge wait time (365+ days) to get the interview dates. So if you try to submit the application today and get the interview date, probably you will get it one year later. On the day of your interview, your DS-160, which you submitted a year ago, will have expired automatically. Therefore, it is crucial to ensure that there is less than a one-year gap between the completion date of your DS-160 and the interview date before sending your parents for the interview. If your DS-160 is expired, you can read about this in detail in the following blog. Related: Changing an expired DS-160 What's after the Visa Interview? After the B1/B2 visa interview is completed, the consular officer will keep your passport and will make a decision based on the information you provided, and the result of your background check. There are possible three outcomes: Visa Approved: Usually, your visa will be approved within 5 to 7 business days and it will be ready for pickup or shipped to your home address based on the choices you made while applying for a B2 visa. Administrative Processing: Sometimes, the consular officer may need to run an additional background check for your application which could take several weeks or even months. After administrative processing either your visa will be approved or denied. Visa Denied: The consular officer might determine to deny your B1/B2 visa application and explain the reason for the denial. You may be able to reapply, but you need to address the reason for the denial with additional documentation to support your application. B1/B2 Visa Duration Generally, the approved duration of a B1/B2 visa is 10 years, but you may receive a visa for a shorter duration, such as 1 or 2 years. As soon as you receive your passport back after the interview, check the duration of your B1/B2 visa stamp. It should indicate your visa validity. Now, having a 10-year B1/B2 visa doesn't mean you can stay in the US for that entire duration. The maximum length of stay is usually 6 months or even shorter. It ultimately depends on the duration approved by the CBP (Customs and Border Protection) officer during your entry into the US at the port of entry, where your immigration is done. You can read about this in the following blog. Related: B1/B2 visa length of stay You can check the stamp and date mentioned by the CBP officer on your passport if it's less than 6 months then that's your maximum length of stay. If there is no arrival stamp on your passport, you can check I-94 for "Admit Until Date" after your arrival and that should be your maximum stay period. For example, the following I-94 is valid for 6 months. B1/B2 Visa Health Insurance As mentioned earlier, it is not mandatory to have health insurance to visit on a B1/B2 visa, but it's strongly recommended because healthcare in the US can be very expensive. If your parents have some medical condition it's always a good idea to buy health coverage that can cover you. I always purchase it, and it typically comes with a price tag of a few hundred dollars, providing you with peace of mind. You never know when you might require it. I've included the link for your convenience if you wish to make a purchase. While it's not obligatory, I strongly recommend considering it, as medical treatment in the US can be quite expensive. FAQs on Invitation Letter for Parents to Visit USA How long parents can stay on a visitor visa in the USA? Upon entry, the CBP officer will typically stamp the date of admission on the passport along with the allowed duration of stay (D/S). This can be up to a maximum of six months. If the officer believes that the parents' stay should be limited to a shorter period, they will indicate a shorter duration on the passport. It is advisable to check the I-94 admit-until date to confirm the actual duration of stay for your parents. Read more. How can I apply B1 B2 visa for my parents? There are three steps involved in applying for a B2 visa: Starting from filling out the DS-160 form online. Read more . Paying the visa fee, and scheduling an appointment. Going through the interview process. Read more . Can I extend my B2 visitor visa beyond six months? The maximum duration of stay on a B1/B2 visa is 6 months, and if granted you can get another 6 months of extension. To initiate the extension process, you need to submit Form I-539, which is used to extend or change your status. It is recommended that you apply to extend your stay at least 45 days before your authorized stay expires. Read more. Can I get a DL on a B1/B2 visitor visa in the US? In general, you can not get a US driver's license on a B1/B2 visa but you are typically allowed to drive in the United States using your foreign driver's license (International Driving Permit) for a temporary period and this rule varies from state to state, you can find the details on the United States government official website . Can I rent a car on a visitor visa? Yes, you can rent a car in the United States as a B1/B2 visa holder but you might have to show a valid driver's license from your home country, sometimes an IDP (International Driver's Permit), and in addition, you have to pay for additional vehicle insurance coverage. Does a visitor visa invitation letter for parents need to be notarized? No, there is no requirement to notarize the visitor visa invitation letter. You can sign it with a blue/black pen and scan and send it to your parents/ or family whoever is visiting you. Is it necessary for parents to have a B2 visa cover letter? No, but it's a good idea because it makes it easier for officers to understand your visa application. This means fewer interview questions for parents and makes the process more convenient. What should I know about American culture before visiting? Here are some key points to keep in mind about American culture before you visit: Respect personal space. Tipping culture: Tip around 15-22%. Greetings: Handshakes, eye contact, etc. Time and Punctuality: Be punctual. Traffic and Driving: Follow local rules. Read more . Next: Continue reading Related Posts ✔ How to apply for an OCI card ✔ How to get H4 EAD in 15 days ✔ How to apply for a minor's passport ✔ Current green card priority dates for India Related Topics

In this blog, I'll go over typical B1/B2 visa interview questions and provide easy-to-understand answers to help Indian parents have a better chance of getting their B1/B2 tourist visa approved. It's important to answer B1/B2 visa interview questions honestly, I repeat, HONESTLY, for a successful B1/B2 visa approval. If you're unsure, it's okay to admit you don't know, but honesty is key—avoid LYING. Table of Contents: B1/B2 Visa Interview Questions for Parents Interview question topics Interview questions for parents Purpose of visit Length of stay, accommodation, and finances About your child About you Ties to home country FAQs B1/B2 Visa Interview Questions for Parents will Cover Purpose of Visit: The interviewer will ask about your purpose for the trip, you can tell reasons such as tourism, visiting friends or family, or medical treatment. Length of Stay and Accommodation: Your intended length of stay and your accommodation arrangements in the US where you will live. Financial Situation: Questions about your financial stability to cover expenses during your visit. About your [son/daughter]: Questions about your children, including their job, visa, education, contact details, address, salary, etc. About you: The officer may ask about your job, salary, property, relatives, children, bank account, credit card, health insurance, criminal history, and overall financial situation. Ties to Home Country: Questions to understand your strong connections to your home country and reasons to return after visiting the US. Medical Insurance: You don't need medical insurance to visit the US, but I would recommend buying health insurance . Medical expenses in the US are very high, and if something happens, you could end up with a bill that will haunt you for years. B1 and B2 Visa Interview Questions for Parents The B1/B2 visa interview questions and answers given here might be different for each parent based on their situation, but these would give them a general understanding. PURPOSE OF VISIT Question: Why are you going to the US? Answer: I'm going to see my [son/daughter] and tour the US. Question: Why choose to visit the US instead of other places like Dubai or Abu Dhabi? Answer: There are many more beautiful places to explore in the US. Question: What places do you want to visit in the US? Answer: Answer honestly. Places like New York City, Yellowstone, the Grand Canyon, Las Vegas, etc. are among the most popular tourist attractions in the US. Question: Which states would you be visiting? Answer: I will be visiting _____. Question:  What are your plans during your stay in the US? Answer: I plan to spend quality time with my [son/daughter] during my stay, and explore the country whenever we have the opportunity. Question:  Who will cover your medical expenses? Answer: My [son/daughter]. Or, if you have bought insurance , show a copy of the health insurance receipt. Question:  Will you work in the US? Answer:  No. [remember that you are NOT allowed to work on a tourist visa]. Question:  Have you visited the US before? Answer:  Yes/No. If yes, the officer might ask you for details about the previous visit. Question:  Why have you chosen to travel during this time? Answer: There could be several different reasons, here are a few examples: I got the time off from work during this time. Our [son/daughter] has arranged for leave during this period. The weather is good at this time and it will be good for our tour. I wanted to attend an event during this time, etc. Question:  Why haven't you visited them before? Answer:  There could be several different reasons, here are a few examples: I had very limited time due to work; now that I am retired, we plan to visit them and tour the US. My [son/daughter] needed time to settle in the US, and now we believe it's the right time to visit. Note: Please don't say it's because they weren't coming to India; we decided to visit them. LENGTH OF STAY, ACCOMMODATION & FINANCES Question:  When do you plan to visit the US, where will you stay, and how long do you intend to stay? Answer:  I am planning to visit in [month] and I will stay with my [son/daughter] for ______ months. Question: Why do you wish to stay for so long (6+ months)? Answer: I wish to stay for an extended period to maximize my time with my [son/daughter] and involve myself in the U.S. culture. However, if the visa is granted for a shorter period, I am open to adjusting my plans and shortening the trip accordingly. Question: Can you stay for a shorter period? Answer: Yes, I am open to staying for a shorter period. Question: How much do you think it will cost you to stay in the USA? Answer: I think It would cost between $100 to $300 per day. My [son/daughter] will make the arrangements. Question:  Who is paying/sponsoring for your US trip? Answer:  My son/daughter is taking care of all the expenses. Only if asked, show a copy of their latest bank statement for proof of funds. Question:  Have you been to any other country before? Answer:  No or Yes, I have been to [name of the country/countries] before. If you have visited other countries, the officer might ask you about when, why, and how long you stayed in that country. Question: How many bank accounts/ credit cards do you have? Answer: Answer honestly. Question: Have you booked your tickets yet? Answer: My son/daughter will book the ticket after visa approval. Question: Do you have any medical condition? Answer: Answer honestly if you have any medical condition. Question:  Do you have medical insurance? Answer: No, but my son/daughter will purchase medical insurance before the visit. Question: What is your intended date of departure from the USA? Answer: I will be departing in the month of _____. ABOUT YOUR CHILD Question: Where does your [son/daughter] live in the US? Do you have their contact? Answer: He/she lives in [state/city]. Their contact number is [+1 123456789]. If asked, be ready to provide their complete address. Question:  What visa does your [son/daughter] have? Answer:  He/she has a [Green Card/ H1B visa etc.]. Question: Which visa did your [son/daughter] use for their initial entry into the US? Answer: Answer honestly. Question: What does your child do in the US? Answer: He/she working as a _____ at _____ Company for _____ years. Question: Did your [son/daughter] study in the US? Answer: If yes, the officer might inquire about their degree, university, and graduation year. Question: How much do they earn? Answer: They make $_____ per year. Only if asked, show a copy of their last 3 months of salary slip. Question:  How long has your [son/daughter] been in the US? Answer:  He has been in the US for _____ years. Question:  Is your [son/daughter] married, if yes when did they marry? Do they have kids? Answer: Answer honestly. Question: When was the last time your son/daughter visited India? Answer: Answer honestly. Question: What is your [son/daughter]'s date of birth? Answer: Answer honestly. ABOUT YOU Question: Have you ever been denied a visa for any country, including the USA? Answer: Yes or no. Be prepared to provide details if the officer asks. Question: What kind of education do you have? Answer: Answer honestly. I did _____ in year _____ from _____ university. Question: What is your occupation or what do you do for a living? Answer: I am _____. Tip: Be straightforward and accurately describe your occupation. Question: What is your monthly income? Answer: [If you are working] My income is Rs._____ per month. Question: Do you pay income tax in India, if yes how much? Answer: Answer honestly. Question: How much pension you get? Answer: [If you are retired] Answer honestly. Question: How many children do you have, and where are they currently located? Can you share information about their occupations? Are any of them married? Answer: Answer honestly. Question: Where do you live? Answer: Tell the address that you filled in the DS-160 application. Question: Do you have any family members or friends living in the USA? Answer: Yes/ No. The officer might ask further where they live [state/city], details about their immigration status, work status, and their relationship to you. Question:  Why are you traveling alone? Answer:  Answer honestly, there could be various reasons such as: I am single/ widow/ widower. My partner did not get time off from work. My partner has plans to visit later in the month of _____ TIES TO HOME COUNTRY Question: Do you have any property in India or any other asset? Answer: Answer honestly. Question: Who will look after your property in India while you're away? Answer: I've made arrangements with my relatives and renters to take care of the property during my absence. Question: What is the assurance that you will come back? Answer: I have a job, family, and property here in India, so I will return. Question:  Do you have relatives in India? Answer:  Yes, I have relatives in India. [Briefly mention who your relatives are]. FAQs on B1/B2 Visa Interview Questions for Parents Can my parents interview in Hindi? Yes, you have the option to interview in Hindi. How to select a language for a US visa Interview? You need to indicate your preferred interview language as Hindi when scheduling the visa interview. Can I change the visa interview language after payment? During your interview day, you can express your language preference at the intake window. If possible, an interpreter will then support you during your discussion with the officer. Can they interview together? Yes, generally they are allowed to interview together. However, the officer might ask questions to both of the parents. How to get a translator for the US visa interview in India? On the day of the interview, request a translator at the intake window if no language appointments are available. How to prepare parents for B1/B2 visa interview? At least go through the interview question examples mentioned above once. Whenever you talk to your children over the phone (who are in the US) before your visit, frequently discuss their job history, current and past visa statuses, and where they live. This will help you prepare for the interview. It's better if children brief their parents before their B1/B2 visa interview. It's good to brief them over some time rather than giving them a lot of information in one day. They are older and may need more time to digest the facts. Be confident when attending the interview. Make eye contact, dress up properly, smile, and greet. Listen to the questions carefully. If you can't understand, there is no harm in requesting the interviewer to repeat the question. Arrive at the visa interview center at least 30 minutes before your scheduled time so that you don't need to rush. If your parents are traveling a long distance for their visa interview, it's a good idea to book a hotel near the visa interview center. Next: Things to know about the USA Related Posts ✔ How to apply for an OCI card ✔ How to get H4 EAD in 15 days ✔ How to apply for a minor's passport Related Topics

Bringing parents to the U.S. permanently is a big step, and thankfully, the process is straightforward if you’re a U.S. citizen . Unlike family preference categories, where applicants face long waiting periods, parents fall under the Immediate Relative (IR-5) category , which has no visa backlog . But how does the process work? How long does it take? What documents are needed? This guide covers everything in short. Who Can Sponsor Their Parents for a Green Card? To sponsor your parents, you must meet these criteria: You are at least 21 years old You are a U.S. citizen (green card holders cannot sponsor parents) You can financially support them (via the Affidavit of Support - Form I-864) Parents do not need to be married or meet any age requirement—they qualify solely based on your U.S. citizenship. What if I Have a Green Card? If you're a green card holder (permanent resident), you cannot apply for your parents. You must first become a U.S. citizen and then apply for them. Step-by-Step Process to Get a Green Card for Parents Step 1: File Form I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) The first step is filing Form I-130 with USCIS to prove your relationship with your parent(s). You’ll need to submit one I-130 per parent: For your mother: Submit your birth certificate showing her name. For your father: Submit your birth certificate plus their marriage certificate (to show he was married to your mother when you were born). If your parents’ documents are in another language, they must be translated into English. Processing Time for I-130 for Parents Step 2: Wait for USCIS Approval & Case Transfer to NVC (If Parent is Outside the U.S.) Once USCIS approves the I-130, the case moves to the National Visa Center (NVC), which handles consular processing. NVC assigns a case number and asks for: Form DS-260 (Immigrant Visa Application) – The parent must complete this online form. Affidavit of Support (Form I-864) – You must prove you can financially support your parents. Other Documents – Birth certificates, marriage certificates, passport copies, police clearance, etc. This stage usually takes 3–6 months , depending on processing speed. Step 3: Consular Processing & Interview If your parents are outside the U.S., they’ll attend a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in India. They will need: ✅ Passport ✅ Appointment Letter from NVC ✅ Medical Exam Results from a U.S.-approved doctor ✅ All Supporting Documents (I-130 approval, DS-260 confirmation, birth certificate, police clearance, etc.) At the interview, the consular officer will ask questions to verify their identity and relationship with you. If approved, they receive an immigrant visa in their passport. Once they enter the U.S., they automatically become a green card holder (permanent resident). The actual green card arrives by mail in 2–3 months . Step 4: Adjustment of Status (If Parent is Already in the U.S.) If your parent is already in the U.S. on a valid visa, they can adjust their status to a green card holder without leaving the country. Required Forms: I-130 (Petition for Alien Relative) I-485 (Application to Register Permanent Residence/Adjust Status) I-864 (Affidavit of Support) I-693 (Medical Exam Results) I-765 (Work Permit - Optional) Processing Time for Adjustment of Status, Form I-485 How Much Does It Cost to Sponsor Parents? Here’s a breakdown of fees (this might change in the future so it's better to refer to the USCIS website): I-130 (Petition): $625 (online filing) or $675 (paper filing) DS-260 (Visa Application): $325 Affidavit of Support (I-864): $120 (if filing from outside the US else $0) USCIS Immigrant Fee: $220 I-485 (If Adjusting Status): $1,440 Medical Exam: Varies (~$300–$500) Total Estimated Cost: Consular Processing (if outside the U.S.): ~$1,000 per parent Adjustment of Status (if in the U.S.): ~$2,500 per parent Final Thoughts Sponsoring your parents for a green card is one of the fastest family-based immigration processes, thanks to the Immediate Relative (IR-5) category. The key is preparing documents correctly and staying updated on processing times. If you're ready to start, file Form I-130 and begin the journey to reunite your family in the U.S. FAQs on Green Card for Parents Can a Green Card holder sponsor their parents? No, only U.S. citizens (age 21 or older) can sponsor their parents. Can my parents work in the U.S. while waiting for their Green Card? If they applied for Adjustment of Status (Form I-485), they can apply for a work permit (Form I-765) and work while waiting for approval. Can my parents apply for U.S. citizenship? Yes! After 5 years of holding a green card, they can apply for U.S. citizenship (N-400). What happens if my parents overstay a visa in the U.S.? If they overstay, it can affect their ability to get a green card. However, immediate relatives (parents of U.S. citizens) are exempt from unlawful presence bars, so they may still adjust their status in the U.S. Can I apply for a Green Card for only one parent instead of both? Yes, you can sponsor either your mother or father individually. There is no requirement to apply for both together. What happens if my parent’s visitor visa expires while the Green Card application is pending? If you filed Form I-485 (Adjustment of Status) while they were in the U.S., they can stay legally while waiting for a decision. However, if they leave the U.S., they may need advance parole to return. Do my parents need to take an English or civics test for a Green Card? No, unlike U.S. citizenship, Green Card applicants do not have to pass an English or civics test. Can I apply for my step-parent’s Green Card? Yes, if your step-parent married your biological parent before you turned 18, you can sponsor them just like a biological parent. Can my parents leave the U.S. while their Green Card application is in process? If they are adjusting their status (Form I-485), they must get Advance Parole (Form I-131) before leaving, or their application will be considered abandoned. Next: Green Card Calculator Related Posts ✔ How to apply for an OCI card ✔ How to get H4 EAD in 15 days   ✔ How to apply for a minor's passport ✔ Current green card priority dates for India Related Topics

If you’re an H1B visa holder like me, you’ve probably heard about the recent changes to the Dropbox process. I recently had to renew my visa while visiting India, and what I thought would be a simple process turned into a bit of a headache. Here’s my experience and what you need to know if you’re planning to use the Dropbox option for your H1B renewal. What is Dropbox for H1B Visa Renewal? Before diving into the changes, let me quickly explain what the Dropbox process is (or was). The U.S. Department of State allows certain visa applicants to renew their visas without attending an in-person interview at the U.S. consulate. This is called the Interview Waiver Program (IWP), commonly known as " Dropbox ". It used to be pretty simple. If your previous visa was still valid or had expired within a specific period, you could just submit your documents at a designated center, wait for processing, and get your visa stamped without the hassle of a visa interview. This was a huge relief for those of us who have already been through the H1B interview process before and didn’t want to deal with scheduling in-person appointments, especially given the long wait times at U.S. consulates in India. What Changed in 2025? In February 2025, the U.S. government made some unannounced changes to the Dropbox eligibility criteria. Here’s what’s different: 1. The 48-Month Rule is Gone – Now It’s Only 12 Months Previously, if your visa had expired within the last 48 months , you were eligible for Dropbox. This was a great rule because it covered a large number of applicants. However, the new rule has reduced this window to only 12 months . This means if your last H1B visa expired more than a year ago, you must attend an in-person interview at the U.S. consulate. For many people who haven’t renewed their visas in the last couple of years, this is a major inconvenience. 2. Visa Category Must Be the Same If you’re changing visa categories (for example, moving from an F-1 student visa to an H1B work visa), you are no longer eligible for Dropbox. Even if you had a visa before, changing categories now requires an in-person interview. This was a surprise to many applicants (including a friend of mine) who had booked Dropbox appointments, thinking they were eligible. They had to cancel their appointments and try to get an in-person interview slot instead—which, as you might guess, was not easy given the current backlog at U.S. consulates. How These Changes Affected Me? I was in India for a short visit and planned to renew my H1B visa through Dropbox, just like I did last time. When I checked my eligibility, I was relieved to see that my previous visa had expired less than a year ago, so I barely cut the new 12-month rule. Here’s how my process went: Submitted my application on the CGI Federal website I filled out the DS-160 form, paid the visa fee, and scheduled my Dropbox appointment. The availability of Dropbox slots was decent, but I noticed that they were filling up faster than usual—probably because of the new eligibility restrictions forcing more people into the interview queue. Document Submission at the VAC I submitted my passport, DS-160 confirmation, visa appointment confirmation, I-797 approval notice, recent photos, and previous visa copies at the Visa Application Center (VAC). The staff checked my documents, accepted them, and told me to wait for an email update. Processing Time Increased In previous years, the Dropbox process took about 7-10 days, but this time it took over 3 weeks for my visa to be processed. Many other applicants reported similar delays, possibly due to the consulates handling more in-person interviews after the new rules were implemented. Visa Approved, But With a Longer Wait After three weeks, I finally got the email saying my passport was ready for pickup. I checked my visa stamp, and everything was fine. However, some of my friends were asked to appear for an additional interview even though they qualified for Dropbox. This is known as "221(g)" administrative processing, and it adds extra time and uncertainty. What This Means for You? If you’re an H1B visa holder planning to renew your visa, here’s my advice based on my experience: ✅ Check Your Eligibility Carefully If your previous H1B visa expired more than 12 months ago, you will need to attend an in-person interview. If you’re switching from another visa type (F-1, L-1, etc.) to H1B, you must attend an interview even if you had a previous visa. ✅ Plan for Delays Processing times seem to be longer than before, so don’t assume you’ll get your passport back within a week. Plan accordingly, especially if you have a return flight to the U.S. already booked. If you get a 221(g) request for additional documents or an interview, it could take weeks or even months. ✅ Book Your Appointment ASAP With more people now needing in-person interviews, appointment slots at the consulates are filling up quickly. If you’re traveling to India for visa stamping, book your slot as soon as possible. Final Thoughts! These changes have made the Dropbox process more restrictive, forcing many people back into the in-person interview queue. If you’re eligible for Dropbox, I’d recommend renewing your visa as soon as possible while you still meet the criteria. If your visa expired more than a year ago, be prepared for a longer process. The U.S. consulates in India already have long wait times for visa interviews, and this change is only going to make it worse. Hopefully, this gives you a clear picture of what to expect. If you’re going through the process right now, feel free to share your experience in the comments! Next: Passport renewal in the USA Related Posts ✔ How to apply for an OCI card ✔ How to get H4 EAD in 15 days   ✔ How to apply for a minor's passport ✔ Current green card priority dates for India Related Topics

This page provides information on India's current green card priority date for family-based permanent residency in the F1, F2A, F2B, F3, and F4 categories. Suppose the applicant's priority date on the I-797 notice for the I-130 petition is earlier than the current date mentioned below. In that case, you are eligible to proceed with your immigrant visa application process, like the I-485 or DS-260 application, which is the final step in obtaining a green card. I-485: If the applicant is physically present in the United States and is eligible to adjust status to permanent resident status, they typically file Form I-485 with USCIS. DS-260: If the applicant is residing outside of the United States and is applying for an immigrant visa through consular processing, they generally complete Form DS-260, which is processed by the Department of State. The U.S. Department of State releases a monthly visa bulletin, and the dates presented here reflect the regularly updated 'Date for Filing' and 'Final Action Date' per visa bulletin. Please bookmark ⭐ this page for future reference. Last updated:  Based on the latest Visa Bulletin  published by the US Department of State. 'Dates for Filing' typically precede the 'Final Action Date' and allow applicants to start certain parts of the application process earlier. The 'Final Action Date' is the cutoff date determining when green cards can be issued based on the priority date of the immigrant petition. FAQs on Family-Based Green Card Priority Date India Who can apply for a family-based green card? You can get a green card If you are an immediate relative of a U.S. citizen. Immediate relatives are not subjected to visa quotas (no cap on the number of green cards that can be issued) and generally have more favorable immigration processing. Even the concept of a priority date does not apply to immediate relatives. Parent of a U.S. citizen (if the citizen is 21+). Spouse of a U.S. citizen. Unmarried child under 21 of a U.S. citizen. The following relatives are eligible based on the "preference immigrant" category: First preference (F1) - Unmarried children (21 years and older) of U.S. citizens. Second preference (F2A) - Spouses and unmarried children (under 21 years old) of lawful permanent residents. Second preference (F2B) - Unmarried children (21 years and older) of lawful permanent residents. Third preference (F3) - Married children of U.S. citizens. Fourth preference (F4) - Siblings of U.S. citizens (if the citizen is 21+). What is the current priority date for parents of U.S. citizens? For parents of U.S. citizens, there isn't a "current priority date" in the same way as other family-sponsored preference categories. Parents of U.S. citizens are considered immediate relatives and are not subject to the priority date system that applies to preference categories like F1, F2A, F2B, etc. Therefore, they do not have to wait for a priority date to become current. What is the processing time for a family-based green card for Indian parents? The processing time for a family-based green card for Indian parents typically ranges from 12 to 16 months, but actual processing times may vary depending on the USCIS backlog and workload. As an immediate relative, you can file Form I-485 concurrently with Form I-130. Next: Green Card vs Citizenship Related Posts ✔ Do Green Card holders need visas for Canada? ✔ How to expedite the USCIS application? Related Topics

I am sharing a real-life example of the name “FNU” (meaning First Name Unknown). If you don't have a surname (blank/empty surname which is quite common in India) on your passport, what issues or problems you might encounter in the United States, and what are the potential solutions? I am going to cover each problem one by one, starting with how to fill out DS-160 for FNUs, having an FNU name on a US visa, booking FNU airline tickets, encountering FNU on the I-94 form, dealing with the SSN office, dealing with an FNU name on a Driver's License, getting an EAD card, FNU's I-9 employment verification (e-verify), understanding how to file taxes, buying a house or car in the US, getting credit cards, securing loan, etc. Table of Contents: Fnu name Fnu Indian name Fnu problem solution Fnu meaning DS-160 form Fnu on visa Airline tickets I-94 form for Fnu Fnu in SSN Fnu name change in SSN Driver's license I-9 for Fnu EAD & green card Buying a car, or house, and getting a credit card/ bank account Tax filing No name given vs. Fnu FAQs How to change FNU in a US visa? What is the solution for an FNU on a driver's license at the DMV? Conclusion I will try to cover everything you need to know if your name has FNU. It's been over 10 years now and FNU is not a show-stopper so far, but yes it's a pain. FNU Indian Name Well, FNU is not an Indian name but a significant number of FNU names come from Indian origin. It's due to the practice of having only a first name in India, where the last name is not mandatory. However, when you travel to foreign countries like the USA, Canada, Australia, Europe, etc. surnames become mandatory and many Indian visa applicants without surnames often receive visas with FNU as the first name and their actual name as the last name. That's the starting point where you will encounter the FNU name. Related: How to file a B1/B2 tourist visa for parents? FNU Problem Solution How did I become familiar with "FNU" name problems and solutions? Well, my husband has only one name (a single name like Rihanna, the Barbadian singer) and he is called "FNU" (pronounced as "fuh-new") in the United States. Due to this, I am aware of most of the problems which FNU might encounter. Throughout the blog, I will provide examples using my name. I am here to share our journey, all the problems we faced with the FNU name, and what solutions we employed. I aim to help others navigate FNU name-related problems. Please feel free to comment if you are in a similar situation with the name FNU, I will try to answer those questions to the best of my experience. Related: Things to know about US culture for first-time visitors 01. FNU Meaning FNU name means "First Name Unknown", pronounced as “fuh-new”. If you don't have a last name i.e. it’s blank/missing on your passport then your US visa will be issued as "FNU". Your first name will be issued as FNU and your given name on your passport will become your last name on the US visa. Case 01: If your Indian passport has only one name like the Given name: "Hina" and Last name: then your US visa will have your First name: "FNU", and Last name: "Hina" so your name becomes "FNU Hina". Case 02: Suppose your Indian passport has a name like the Given name: "Hina Singh" and Last name: then your US visa will have your First name: "FNU", and Last name: "Hina Singh" so your name will be "FNU Hina Singh". If you fall into case 2, it's good to rectify your name on your Indian passport so that your Given name is "Hina" and your Last name is "Singh". Do not get yourself into the FNU hassle. Fix it before it becomes more complicated. Indian Passport Reissue in India - Apply for the re-issue of a passport in India. This link is specific to passport renewal for parents, but the overall process would remain the same for your situation. You can also check the appointment availability here . Indian Passport Reissue in the US - Apply for a name split in the US. This blog is specifically written for FNU's name change, or if you want to add the spouse's surname. 02. FNU in DS-160 Form Form DS-160 is at the heart of all the problems. If your passport lacks a last name, then this will be the first time you will encounter the term “FNU“ while completing the DS-160 form. Whether you are applying for a tourist visa or a work visa, if your passport doesn't have a last name, you'll need to enter 'FNU' as your first name and your given name as your last name. There's no alternative solution for this issue (except rectifying the passport name by adding a last name, as discussed in case 2 earlier). In many instances, making this correction within such a short timeframe is challenging, so let us just move forward. As shown in the DS-160 form screenshot above, you can see the explanation in the “Help: Given Names” section, so nothing to worry about, just fill out the DS-160 form as instructed. Related post: Sample sponsorship letter for a B1/B2 tourist visa Case 01: If you have one name then it will be filled in Surname. For example, if the name is just “Hina” then the Surname will be “Hina” and the Given Name will be filled as FNU. Case 02: If your name is “Hina Singh” as the given name then it will be filled in Surname as “Hina Singh” and Given Name as FNU so in this case, your name becomes "FNU Hina Singh". Even if you fill out DS-160 with your first name as “Hina” and last name as “Singh”, it doesn’t matter, you will get the visa as "FNU Hina Singh". USCIS will process your application as FNU. Result: FNU Hina or FNU Hina Singh 03. FNU on Visa After filling out the DS-160 and going through the visa interview process you will be granted a US visa. There will be no issues here. You might see minor hiccups during biometrics or the interview process where they will try to find your name, but nothing to worry about. Most of the officers are aware of the FNU name and you will get through this. Related: Tourist visa interview questions When you get the visa, notice the name printed on your US visa, Your first name will be FNU and your last name will be your actual name. We are just scratching the surface and this is just the beginning but it should not be a problem as long as you are comfortable with your new name "FNU". Even if you are not, get used to it. 😊 Result: FNU Hina or FNU Hina Singh 04. FNU Airline Ticket Once you get your US visa, the next step is to get the airline tickets. Case 01: This could be a little tricky if you have a single name like just “Hina”. You should talk to airlines about how they handle situations like this because each airline has its own policy. Sometimes they prefer doing the same as visa like “Fnu Hina” but sometimes they might even do “Hina Hina”, sometimes “Mrs. Hina”, "Hina . " (dot in the last name), or "Hina LNU" (Last Name Unknown), or "Unknown Hina". It varies depending on airline policies for domestic and international travel, or which country you are traveling to. So talk to the airlines before booking your tickets. For example, if you are booking tickets with Air India and you don't have a last name, they would ask you to repeat the first name in the last name field like "Hina Hina" for domestic travel, "FNU Hina" for international travel to the US & Canada, "Unknown Hina" for Australia, "Hina Hina" for UAE and so on. You can find the Air India details in the below link. I have also included a few other airline resources that might help you while booking the tickets. Air India Qatar Airways KLM Singapore Airlines Emirates United Airlines Etihad However, the safest bet will be "Fnu Hina" i.e. same as your US visa. We have traveled to the US with Qatar, KLM, United, and Delta with "FNU" as the first name and never faced any issues. Case 02: For names like “Hina Singh” as a given name and “blank” surnames on passports, do not over-complicate it. Book your flight tickets with your First name as "Hina" and your Last name as "Singh". Temporarily ignore what’s printed on the visa i.e. "FNU Hina Singh". So in this case, your air ticket will be booked as "Hina Singh" and will match your passport. Again check the airline name policy before you make final bookings. I have mentioned the links above, these policies might change with time. Result: Varies for each airline 05. I-94 form for FNU As soon as your immigration is done at the US port of entry your electronic I-94 should be ready. If not, give it at least 24 hours. You need to go to the Department of Homeland Security website to download your most recent I-94 form. Finding your I-94 could be tricky if you don’t have a surname and it depends upon the immigration officer who did your immigration at the US airport (port of entry). When you look up your name for the I-94 form you can try the following combinations. I understand it's funny sometimes but that's how it is! Case 00: Rare case scenario but if you have a name like "FNU Hina Singh" on the visa, try searching with the first name as "Hina" and the last name as "Singh" and you might be lucky to find your name as "Hina Singh" on I-94. But honestly speaking this is not good news, technically if your name on I-94 is "FNU Hina Singh" which matches your US visa, it's good for you. Try contacting CBP customer service and request them to keep it the same. Case 01: Search with your actual name in the last name (not in the first name). Remember that your first name is FNU and your last name is your actual name now. For example ”FNU Hina” in this case. Related: H1B vs L1 visa: Which is better for the green card? Case 02: If you can’t find I-94 with FNU then try searching with LNU in your last name and your actual name as the first name. For example “Hina LNU”. LNU stands for "Last Name Unknown". As I mentioned it all depends upon the immigration officer what he entered during your immigration. Case 03: If not, try searching like "Unknown Hina" or "No name given Hina". Try the first name as "Unknown" or "No name given". Suppose your name is shown as “Hina LNU” or "Unknown Hina" or "No name given Hina" in I-94 then contact CBP customer service and try to get the name same as your visa i.e. “FNU Hina”. Explain on call that you want to keep the name as your visa and they should understand your situation. Note: This is important to keep the names in sync across all the legal documents in the US. So it's better to start from I-94. The ultimate goal is to keep "FNU " across all the US documents wherever possible. Avoid having different names on different documents like LNU, "No Name Given", or "Unknown" and just stick to FNU. Trust me this will make your life easier. Result: FNU Hina or FNU Hina Singh Related: How to apply for an OCI card for minors? 06. FNU in SSN Now, the next step is to get your social security. You need to apply for a social security number within 2 weeks of arrival if you are on a work visa. Social Security Administration has a different "system" from the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) which issues you I-94. Social Security Administration doesn't allow FNU or similar terms in your name. They will not consider "FNU" which is mentioned on your visa. They will just check the name on your passport and I-94. But nothing to worry about, the SSN office has a better solution for this type of situation and I wish DHS had a similar option. The good thing is SSN system accepts single names. Their system has the option of the applicant having a single name or no surname. You can read about this on the Social Security Administration website . It states that if the individual has a single name and the immigration document shows FNU (First Name Unknown) or another acronym indicating the person does not have a first name, process the SSN in the applicant’s single name (Case 1). Case 01: Suppose you have a single name like "Hina" then you will be issued an SSN card as "Hina". But on the SSN envelope letter (which you will receive from the Social Security Administration) right above your mailing address, your name will be mentioned as "Unknown Hina" which is okay. There is nothing to worry about that. Result: Hina Case 02: Imagine your name is "Hina Singh," and your surname is blank. In this case, your issued SSN will be "Hina Singh." Although it may seem like the SSN processed your first name as "Hina" and last name as "Singh," it's processed as a single name in their system same as Case 01. However, it will appear perfectly on the SSN card. Result: Hina Singh Again, avoid names like "Hina LNU", "No name given Hina", "Unknown Hina" or "Hina Singh LNU" on SSN. If you get an SSN card like this please try to get it fixed. SSN card as "Hina" or "Hina Singh" is good for you. FNU Name Change in SSN To fix your name in your SSN, and to get rid of FNU, you would need an updated passport with the correct name, updated visa stamp, updated I-94, and updated immigration document like your petition I-797 if you are on an H1B visa, or L1, or updated DS-2019 if you are J1 visa or updated I-20 if you are on F1 visa. Read more . 07. FNU Driver's License The next step is to visit DMV to get a driver's license. In the US, it's tough to live without a driver's license as there is very limited public transport service depending upon which city you live in, plus it is costly to use transport services like Uber, Lyft, etc. The Department of Motor Vehicles (DMV) has an online application where you will fill in your name details before visiting the DMV office. Here is the trick, in the application form, you will notice First Name is not a mandatory field. Last Name is a mandatory field though (see the red asterisk * next to LAST NAME in the following screenshot). This is a screenshot of the DMV online application form. When you fill out the DMV form, keep your First Name and enter your complete given name as your Last Name. For example, if your name is "FNU Hina" on your visa and "Hina" on your SSN, then your name on the DL application form will be First Name: and Last Name: Hina. Similarly, for "FNU Hina Singh", keep the first name blank and enter Hina Singh as the last name. Once the DMV person processes your application for fingerprint and photograph - this will go smoothly as far as your name in your SSN is "Hina" (case 1) or "Hina Singh" (case 2). Do not fill in "FNU Hina" or "FNU Hina Singh" in the DMV form, this will mismatch with your SSN and your application will not go through due to SSN mismatch. The DMV officer will ask you to visit the SSN office and get your name fixed, but the SSN office does not accept FNU so don't waste your time there. If your SSN has names like "Hina LNU", "No name given Hina", "Unknown Hina" or "Hina Singh LNU" it's a problem, and the DMV officer will face a problem while submitting your application as your name will not match with Social Security Administration records and he will ask you to get your name fixed in SSN . If everything goes smoothly, your driver's license will be issued as First Name: Last Name: Hina, My husband's driver's license is the same. He has nothing in his first name, it's literally . Weird right? But that's how it is. I have not seen DL with cases like a blank first name but a last name as "Hina Singh" but I would not be surprised if someone has. Comment if you have a license with an empty first name and both the names in the last name. Result: Hina or Hina Singh Same first and last name on DL Another case we have seen is the same first and last name like "Hina Hina". It was like this when my husband was in New Jersey, but later when my husband moved to California, DMV didn't accept the same first and last name as SSN verification was failing. New Jersey DMV (manager) was nice and he manually approved the case (even after the SSN mismatch), so even if your SSN has "Hina", a driver's license can be issued as "Hina Hina", it all depends upon the mercy of DMV officer. Result: Hina Hina Try talking to the DMV's office manager, if not just submit your application as an empty first name as suggested earlier and you should be fine. DMV has to process your case. There is no way out. As far as your SSN has a single name, the DMV application will match your SSN and you will get a DL with an empty first name. Related: How to fix FNU name? 08. I-9 Employment Eligibility Verification for FNU I-9 employment verification will be required on your first day of joining if you are going to work in the US. As far as your name on your SSN is "Hina" and your visa has "FNU Hina" you should be fine. Just enter "FNU" in your first name and "Hina" in your last name while doing the I-9 paperwork and this should go smoothly. You can also perform a self-check if you are not sure what will happen on the day of I-9 verification. Refer to this link . Worst case, suppose I-9 verification fails you will be issued a tentative non-confirmation (TNC) number, then you just need to visit the SSN office with the TNC printout provided by the employer and SSA would be able to resolve your case manually in their system. Result: FNU Hina or FNU Hina Singh 09. FNU on EAD and FNU Green Card Suppose you are a dependent of a primary visa holder like H1B, L1, or J1 and you need to work in the US. Even if you are on an F1 visa based on OPT or STEM OPT, you would need to fill out the I-765 form to apply for an EAD card. Related: How to file H4 EAD for the first time? L2 visa holders don't need EAD anymore if they have the L2S category mentioned on I-94. Refer to this blog for details. In this case, fill your name as First Name: FNU and Last Name: Hina and you should be able to get EAD with "FNU Hina". Tip: Once you get the receipt notice of I-765, check what's your name on the receipt notice. Most probably it will be "No Name Given ", for example, First Name will be "No Name Given" and the Last Name will be "Hina". In this case, submit a typographic error correction as soon as possible and request that you keep your name the same as your visa and other legal documents like I-94 so please update it to "FNU " and they will update it. We have done it a couple of times and we successfully received an EAD card with "FNU". The same applies to the green card, you will file your I-140 and I-485 with your name as "FNU , for example, "FNU Hina". My husband received his green card with FNU. No issue was encountered. Result: FNU Hina or FNU Hina Singh 10. Buying a Car, House, and getting a Credit Card/ Bank Account The formula is simple, as long as you stick to "FNU " you should be good, for example, "FNU Hina" or "FNU Hina Singh". My husband has bought 2 cars so far, changed apartments 3 to 4 times, bought a house, successfully got a home loan, has multiple credit cards with FNU (same name as bank account), filed taxes with FNU, and never faced any issues. Result: FNU Hina or FNU Hina Singh Related: How to request a B2 extension after 6 months? 11. IRS Tax Filing for FNU For tax filing, you would need your W2. As you all know W2s' are provided by the employer so there could be a scenario where your name on the visa/passport is different from your name in the W2s. Like companies, they might have their policies for no surname. Case 01: The name on W2 is "Hina Singh", US visa has "FNU Hina", and SSN has only "Hina". This is not an issue, just file your taxes as "FNU Hina" and it will go through. My husband had the same case when he came to the United States. After 3 years, he changed the company and he fixed the name to match "FNU Hina" which you will see in case 02. But in this case with W2 as "Hina Singh" and filing taxes as "FNU Hina" is not a problem. It should go smoothly. We filed taxes for 3-4 years like that and never had issues. Result: FNU Hina Case 02: The name on W2 is "FNU Hina", US visa has "FNU Hina", and SSN has only "Hina". This is even better than case 01. This is why my husband changed the company he updated the name to FNU so that it's in sync with the W2, visa, and I-9. File your taxes with "FNU Hina" and it should go smoothly. Result: FNU Hina No Name Given vs FNU Both the names whether you are assigned "No name given" in the first name or "FNU", will be due to the same issue i.e. you don't have a surname on your passport, As far as problems are concerned it's better to keep "FNU" because that way you can keep your all other documents consistent. Imagine filling out "No Name Given" as your first name. Pretty awkward right? So it's better to request USCIS a typographical correction (to FNU) if any of your applications are processed as "No name given". Every USCIS officer handles the case differently, a few of them might be even unaware of FNU. Or they might think "No name given" and "First name unknown" are the same thing and have no downsides. But we know that will create inconsistency across our documents. Related: How to get H4 EAD faster? When you submit any form to USCIS, you will receive the receipt notice within 5 to 10 days. Try to validate your name on the receipt notice, Even if you had filed "FNU" in the first name during submitting your form, the USCIS officer might process your form as "No name given" while handling your case. So it's always better to validate your receipt notice as soon as you get it and if it has "No name given", submit a typographical error service request ASAP. Do not wait for final approval to correct your name, you will waste time if you do so. FAQs on FNU Name How to change FNU in a US visa? I'm aware of four methods that can help you rectify the "FNU" name issue: Passport Renewal with Name Split: If you're planning to renew your Indian passport in the US, select the service to split your name. You can refer to my passport renewal blog for detailed guidance; the name split process is quite similar. Please note that if you have a single name, this option may not be suitable for you. Adopt Your Spouse's Surname: If you have a single name and you are married then just adopt your spouse's surname. This is the most straightforward way to correct your name on your passport. You can do this during the passport renewal process in the US and it's very easy. Wait for Naturalization: After holding a FNU green card for five years, you can go through the naturalization process. During this process, you have the opportunity to change your name legally in the US – it's a hassle-free way to legally change your name. Newspaper Advertisement and Affidavit: While I haven't personally undergone this process, I would strongly recommend consulting with a lawyer for this particular method. It entails placing an advertisement in a newspaper and obtaining an affidavit to change your name. It's worth noting that this approach is generally perceived as more complex and time-consuming. Each of these methods has its advantages and considerations, so choose the one that best suits your situation and preferences. What is the solution for an FNU (First Name Unknown) on a driver's license at the DMV? The DMV factsheet indicates that if the applicant has a single name, they should process the driver's license or state ID with 'FNU'. Reference NAFSA (National Association of Foreign Student Advisers) . If the nonimmigrant has only one name, it must be used as the last name. Use the letters FNU (First Name Unknown) in the First Name field . Nonimmigrants with one name should be aware that some government officials are not familiar with the FNU acronym and may look for the nonimmigrant to show that his or her first name is FNU. The nonimmigrant should be able to explain the acronym if it is causing validation problems with any government process. There will still be scenarios when the DMV does not agree, and you may find yourself running out of options. Here are some steps that might assist you: If a DMV officer denies your application, inquire about speaking with their manager. The DMV officer might not be familiar with the 'FNU' name, but the manager could have prior experience with such cases. If the manager also disagrees, consider contacting another nearby DMV office. You can submit your application with an empty first name and your last name as your name. I had to visit three DMV offices in New Jersey before a manager agreed to help me; they were very kind. Some DMV registration centers accept driver's license applications but do not conduct tests. You can apply at one of these centers and take the test at a different location. What name should I use for hotel bookings? I would recommend using 'FNU' if you have a single name like 'Hina'; we have never faced issues with this. However, if your name is like 'FNU Hina Singh', simply book as 'Hina Singh' without 'FNU'. Conclusion In our case, there were no potential issues with "FNU" in the name as long as we kept it consistent throughout our legal documents in the US. The only exceptions were a few documents like SSN and DL, which can have a single name (First name is not mandatory there). Hopefully, you find this article helpful. If you are aware of some FNU problems and solutions that might help others, please comment. It's sometimes really frustrating to get through FNU problems and your small suggestion might help thousands of readers out there. Next: How to fix the FNU issue? Related Posts ✔ H1B grace period after lay-offs ✔ Green card vs Citizenship Related Topics

The New York to Los Angeles road trip has something for everyone, whether you are traveling with family, friends, or in a group. Driving from the East Coast to the West Coast or from the West Coast to the East Coast takes approximately 42 hours if you drive non-stop, covering a distance of 2,790 miles. The trip can span anywhere from 4 to 7 days, or more. It's one of the best cross-country road trips in the United States, driving from New York to Los Angeles, and passing through some of the country's most famous tourist attractions, national parks, and scenic routes. This road trip is about fun and enjoyment, not rushing through the drive. I have shared a few helpful product links throughout the blog to enhance your trip. Based on my experiences from several trips, these items have been lifesavers. While I highly recommend them, the choice is yours. Table of Contents: New York to LA Drive New York to Los Angeles Drive (Routes) New York to California Drive Day 1. New York to Chicago, IL (11 hours, 745 miles via I-80) Day 2: Chicago, IL to Omaha, NE (7.5 hours, 466 miles via I-80) Day 3: Omaha to Rocky Mountain, CO (8 hours, 568 miles via I-76) Day 4: Sand Dunes, CO to Page, AZ (7 hours, 426 miles via US-160) Day 5: Page, AZ to Las Vegas, NE (4 hours, 272 miles via US-89 & I-15) Day 6: Las Vegas, NE to Los Angeles, CA (4 hours, 270 miles via I-15) Road Trip Preparation Checklist New York to Los Angeles Drive (Routes) There are a couple of routes for the New York to Los Angeles drive, both of which cover approximately distance of 2800 miles and take around 42 hours. Considering the length of this trip and to ensure a smooth journey, I highly recommend getting this car servicing kit and an emergency medical kit —it has been invaluable on my trips. For navigation, I highly recommend using a dedicated GPS device  rather than relying on your phone. This avoids draining your phone's battery and ensures continuous navigation even in areas with poor cell service. Multiple times on this trip, you will end up driving without a phone signal at night. One route for the New York to LA drive is via I-80 W (the blue line on the map above), and the second route is via I-70 W and I-40 W (the bottom grey line on the map above). Both routes pass through different states, which can help you decide which route to take. Route 1 (via I-80 W) Over 7 days, you will drive through 12 different states: New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Iowa, Nebraska, Colorado, New Mexico, Utah, Nevada, Arizona (optional), and California. Arizona is optional if you wish to pass through. I extended my trip to include Arizona because I love its vivid landscape, which includes Antelope Canyon, the Grand Canyon, Monument Valley, and Horseshoe Bend. If possible, get a dashcam  (front-rear) that can record everything in case of incidents. It's a long trip, and this will be a lifesaver. This will also help you record while you drive through national parks so that you can enjoy your drive instead of being busy recording. Below is a picture of Horseshoe Bend in Arizona; I truly admire this natural wonder. Route 2 (via I-70 W and I-40 W) The second route is to drive via I-70 W and I-40 W, driving through New York, Pennsylvania, Ohio, Indiana, Illinois, Missouri, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California. A road trip is always enjoyable, especially for those who love driving, and it becomes even more memorable when you're traveling in a group. If you have family traveling with you, then buy a car-wide mirror —it will make your conversations with backseat passengers much more entertaining. Unfortunately, I was the sole driver for this trip, but I wasn't alone; my wife kept me awake with her jokes, albeit not very good ones. ;) To stay powered up and connected during the trip, I also recommend a long phone charging cable  (6 FT) so that it can reach the back seat, a phone mount , and a reliable ~10,000 mAh power bank . These were essential for us, especially on those long stretches of road. We even got travel games . You will cross four different time zones (EST, CST, MST, PST) during what is perhaps one of the longest road trips you can imagine in the United States, and I assure you, you'll love it. I've covered the hotels, locations, routes, and driving hours I followed. So feel free to adjust if you have other plans. New York to California Drive My initial plan for the New York to California drive was very flexible. Feel free to add or subtract extra days between destinations based on your preferences. I recommend avoiding advance hotel bookings to maintain flexibility and the option to change your plans. Who cares about the hotel; find one on Google with good ratings, and you'll be fine. After such a long, tiring drive, you only need a comfy bed. For the worst-case scenario, keep an inflatable bed for your car. It can provide a comfortable resting spot if you're unable to find suitable accommodations or if you prefer sleeping in your vehicle. Day 1: New York to Chicago, IL Day 2: Explore Chicago, IL Day 3: Chicago, IL to Omaha, NE Day 4: Omaha, NE to the Rocky Mountains, CO Day 5: Explore the Rocky Mountains, CO Day 6: Rocky Mountains, CO to Page, AZ Day 7: Explore Page, AZ Day 8: Page, AZ to Las Vegas, NE Day 9: Explore Las Vegas, NV Day 10: Las Vegas, NE to Los Angeles, CA Days 10-11: Explore Los Angeles and San Diego, CA After so many days of driving, your car will likely start to smell. I kept a portable car vacuum , a car trash can  with a lid, hand sanitizer , wet wipes , and an air freshener to keep the car clean and fresh. I also kept a trunk organizer as I knew things would get messy. Trust me, if your car is organized and smells fresh, you'll do much better throughout the trip—that's from my experience. Day 1. New York to Chicago, IL (11 hours, 745 miles via I-80) An eleven-hour New York to Chicago drive is quite long, isn't it? Yes, but I planned to drive the maximum distance on the first day because I had plenty of energy. Additionally, stopping in Chicago was a good idea. However, if an eleven-hour drive is too much for you, you can split it into two days, with a 7-hour drive followed by a 5-hour drive, making a stop in Cleveland, OH. If you have some time in the evening, you can visit the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame . It's located on the shore of Lake Erie in downtown Cleveland, and it's a beautiful place. I had visited Cleveland a couple of times before, so there wasn't much left for me to explore there. Anyway, I stayed at Cool Springs Inn , Michigan City approximately an hour's drive from Chicago, for a couple of reasons. The first reason was the cost; hotels in Chicago were too expensive, approximately 3-4 times the cost of what I paid in Michigan City ($45). Secondly, Chicago is only about an hour's drive from this place, so you can wake up early in the morning and explore Chicago if you want. You can visit these places in Chicago: Navy Pier Willis Tower Cloud Gate John Hancock Center Shedd Aquarium Art Institute of Chicago There is a lot to do in Chicago; in fact, a day is not enough for Chicago. Consider getting a city pass and try to explore as much as you can. Extend your stay if needed. At the end of the day, you can either drive back to Cool Springs or book another hotel nearby. The Palmer House is a good option if you want to spend more time in Chicago downtown, I have been there a couple of times. It's a bit pricier at around $150 per night, and you have to pay extra for parking, approximately $50, but the place is awesome. I paid this price in 2018, so it would have changed since then. Day 2: Chicago, IL to Omaha, NE (7.5 hours, 466 miles via I-80) Well, I didn't stop at Omaha, Horizon Inn Motel as per my initial plan. Instead, I drove an additional 8 hours to reach Rocky Mountains, CO, which was originally my Day 3 stop. It might sound crazy, but I drove for over 15 hours to reach Colorado. I was particularly interested in hiking and exploring Colorado, so by adding an extra 8 hours of driving, I effectively saved a day for Colorado. To keep your energy up during such long drives, I recommend bringing along some electrolyte drink mix . They were a lifesaver for me, helping me to stay alert and focused on the road, and even useful during hiking. Omaha offers plenty to do if you stick to the initial plan. If you have an interest in zoos and America's largest indoor rainforest, visit the Henry Doorly Zoo and Aquarium, which features an incredible indoor desert and rainforest. Day 3: Omaha to Rocky Mountain, CO (8 hours, 568 miles via I-76) Colorado is too vast to explore in a single day. So I stayed there for a couple of days, with my first stop at Coyote Mountain Lodge . I began the day with a hike in the Rocky Mountains and then drove through the Garden of the Gods. On the second day, I stopped at Estes Park and visited Royal Gorge Bridge (shown below). Later in the evening, we went to Great Sand Dunes National Park. I haven't seen landscapes like those at Great Sand Dunes in my entire life. You'll find snowy mountains, deserts, lakes, and lush green forests all in the same place. It's truly mesmerizing! Day 4: Sand Dunes, CO to Page, AZ (7 hours, 426 miles via US-160) Arizona is also too vast to explore in one day. However, you can visit Antelope Canyon, Horseshoe Bend, and drive through Zion National Park or the Grand Canyon. The Grand Canyon itself requires a couple of days if you want to explore all its corners. If you want to save some time, you can consider a helicopter tour from Las Vegas. Drive through Zion National Park if you get a chance. It's a beautiful place. Antelope Canyon shines bright orange in the n oon sunlight, so it's a good time to visit around that time. You'll need to book tickets for this. Day 5: Page, AZ to Las Vegas, NE (4 hours, 272 miles via US-89 & I-15) Las Vegas is self-explanatory, and I don't think this place needs any explanation. You can try different foods and drinks, enjoy a stroll along the streets, experience the nightlife, enjoy rides, and explore the city. Saturday night is the most popular time, so plan your trip accordingly. Driving in Vegas can be chaotic, with several pedestrians walking and lots of luxurious cars. If your car doesn't have a blind spot mirror , definitely get one. Day 6: Las Vegas, NE to Los Angeles, CA (4 hours, 270 miles via I-15) You can cover this distance on the 5th day itself if you don't like Vegas. But I believe that's not the case; no one wants to skip Vegas. Southern California has tons of things to do, including Universal Studios, the San Diego Zoo, the Griffith Observatory, the Santa Monica Pier, and plenty of beautiful beaches. One of my favorites is Potato Chip Rock Mountain, a short mountain hike near San Diego County. Here's a picture. Road Trip Preparation Checklist Ensure you have valid insurance and registration. These documents are crucial for your journey, and keeping them organized is key. I highly recommend using a card holder to keep them safe and easily accessible while on the road. Ensure your vehicle is fully serviced before planning this trip, including an engine oil change, checking tire conditions, lights, brakes, etc. I wasted several hours due to an oil change in Arizona, so be cautious. Avoid booking a hotel in advance, but try to make a reservation before 3:00 p.m. if you decide to book on the same day to avoid higher costs. I had to cancel one booking due to a change in plans. Keep extra blankets and pillows in your car in case you need to rest. Keep rain gear , an empty bag pack , a torch , and mosquito repellent . Avoid overloading your vehicle; always leave extra space for yourself. Take regular breaks while driving; I was taking breaks every 3-4 hours of driving. Try not to drive more than 8 hours per day, although I didn't follow this rule myself. Keep warm clothes (jackets) in your car, as the weather can change significantly during such a long-distance tour. For example, when I started the trip, it was 25 degrees Celsius in New York, but it dropped to 2 degrees Celsius when I reached Colorado. This might be different depending upon the season for you. Keep an ample supply of water and food in your car. Carry a tire inflator in your car; you can find one on Amazon for around $25. Avoid driving between 6 pm and 7 pm due to the sunset. Since you'll be driving west, you'll face the sun every evening. Most importantly, enjoy your trip and take your time; there's no need to rush! Next: Continue reading Related Posts ✔ Apply for US tourist visa ✔ Things to know about US culture Related Topics

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