Visa Interview Timing Advice

Thank you for the details. Here is some information that might help:
- **Timing of the Visa Interview**: It is generally advisable to schedule the visa interview before your H-1B visa extension is filed. This avoids any complications or additional questions related to your visa status.
- **Potential Implications**: Scheduling the interview before the extension filing can provide clarity on your current status without the need to explain pending extensions.
Would you like more information on the visa application process?

Sure! Here is some information on the B-* tourist visa application process for your mother-in-law from India:
- **Complete the DS-* Form**: This is the online application for a nonimmigrant visa.
- **Pay the Visa Fee**: The fee must be paid before scheduling the interview.
- **Schedule the Visa Interview**: Use the confirmation number from the DS-* form to book her interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
- **Prepare Supporting Documents**: These include her passport, photograph, DS-* confirmation page, visa fee receipt, and any additional documents to prove her purpose of visit and ties to India.
- **Attend the Visa Interview**: She must attend the interview with all required documents.
Would you like more details on any specific step?

Which specific step would you like more details on?

Sure! Here is what you need to provide as a sponsor for your mother-in-law's B-* tourist visa:
- **Affidavit of Support (Form I-*)**: To demonstrate your financial ability to support her during the visit.
- **Your H-1B Approval Notice (Form I-*)**: Proof of your valid H-1B status.
- **Employment Verification Letter**: From your employer, confirming your job and income.
- **Recent Pay Stubs and Bank Statements**: To show your financial stability.
- **Invitation Letter**: Explaining the purpose of the visit and your relationship.

Would you like more details on any specific document?

Which specific document would you like more details on?

Given the current validity of your H-1B visa until May *, it is generally advisable to proceed with scheduling her visa interview before your extension is filed. This can help avoid any potential complications or questions regarding pending extensions.
Would you like more details on any other aspect of the visa process?

Thank you for the additional information. Given the difficulty in securing a visa appointment date, you may consider the following steps:
- **Check Regularly for Openings**: Visa appointment slots can open up unexpectedly.
- **Use Expedited Appointment Requests**: If there are urgent reasons for her visit, you may request an expedited appointment.
Would you like more details on how to request an expedited appointment?

To request an expedited visa appointment for a B-* tourist visa from India, follow these steps:
- **Complete the DS-* Form**: Ensure the form is filled out completely.
- **Schedule Regular Appointment**: You must have a regular appointment scheduled first.
- **Login to Your Account**: Log into the visa appointment system.
- **Request Expedite**: There should be an option to request an expedited appointment, providing a detailed reason for urgency.
Would you like more details on any specific step?

If your mother-in-law's B-* visa is approved and she travels while your H-1B extension is pending, it should generally not cause issues at the port of entry, as long as:
- She has a valid visa.
- She can clearly explain her purpose of visit.
- She has supporting documents (e.g., your current H-1B status and invitation letter).
Would you like more information on the supporting documents she should carry?

Sure! Here are the supporting documents your mother-in-law should carry when traveling:
- **Valid B-* Visa**: Ensure her visa is valid for entry.
- **Passport**: Must be valid for at least six months beyond her intended stay.
- **Invitation Letter**: From you, explaining her visit's purpose and duration.
- **Proof of Ties to India**: Documents showing her strong ties to her home country.
- **Your H-1B Approval Notice (Form I-*)**: Proof of your current H-1B status.
- **Financial Support Documents**: Evidence of funds to cover her stay.
Would you like more details on any specific document?

Given your plan to apply for an H-1B extension in premium processing in January *, it is advisable to schedule her visa interview after you have received the approved I-* from the new petition. This can avoid complications regarding your visa status.
Would you like more information on preparing for the visa interview?