
International students often rely on financial sponsors to support their studies and living expenses. In the US, students can use personal funds, assets, or property that can be converted into cash, or funds from friends, family, or organizations. For J-1 visas, however, sponsorship is limited to nonprofits or educational institutions. Canada also offers open work permits for spouses or common-law partners of international students, and parents can visit on a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). In the US, parents of F-1 students can apply for B-2 visas, but they cannot live with their child unless they have their own immigrant, work, or student visa.
Characteristics and values of international students sponsoring their parents:
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Countries that allow sponsorship | US, Canada |
| Visa type for parents | B-1/B-2 visa, Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) |
| Visa requirements | Proof of ties to home country, financial documents, Form I-134 (US), medical examination (Canada) |
| Work authorization | Parents cannot work on B-2 visa (US); open work permits available for spouses of international students (Canada) |
| Duration of stay | Maximum initial period of six months on B-2 visa (US); duration of student's visa (Canada) |
| Other considerations | Parents of minors with F-1 visas may accompany their children (US); family-based immigration available for spouses and dependent children (Canada) |
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What You'll Learn
- International students in the US can sponsor their parents for a B-2 visa, allowing them to stay for up to six months
- Parents of F-1 visa holders can apply for a B-1/B-2 visa to visit their child, but cannot live with them unless they have their own immigrant, work, or student visa
- International students in Canada can invite their parents on a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
- In the US, international students may need financial sponsors, which can include family members who must submit a Form I-134
- Family-based immigration is an option for international students and graduates with US citizen or permanent resident spouses, relatives, or partners

International students in the US can sponsor their parents for a B-2 visa, allowing them to stay for up to six months
International students in the US may be able to sponsor their parents to join them for part of their studies. The type of visa and the options available depend on the student's visa status and their country of origin.
For international students in the US on an F-1 visa, their parents can apply for a B-2 visa to visit them. This is a temporary visa, allowing visitors to stay for up to six months initially. There is no specified limit on the number of extensions, but they must be applied for in good time. To obtain this visa, applicants must prove non-immigrant intent, demonstrating strong ties to their home country. This may include evidence of employment, bank statements, and account history.
For students with other visa types, it may not be possible to sponsor parents. For example, J-1 students cannot sponsor parents for F-2 or J-2 status.
It is important to note that the B-2 visa does not allow holders to work in the US. Additionally, the application process can be complex, and specific requirements vary depending on the student's visa type and personal circumstances. Seeking guidance from an immigration advisor is recommended to ensure the correct procedures are followed.
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Parents of F-1 visa holders can apply for a B-1/B-2 visa to visit their child, but cannot live with them unless they have their own immigrant, work, or student visa
International students in the US may require a financial sponsor when applying for a student visa. The type of student visa will determine the eligible financial sponsors for the program. For instance, for an F-1 student visa, you can use personal funds, assets, property that can be converted into cash, or funds from friends, family, or organizations. In the case that sponsorship comes from family members, they will need to submit a Form I-134, which states their consent to fund your studies and living expenses, along with bank and asset statements.
Parents of F-1 visa holders can apply for a B-1/B-2 visa to visit their child in the US. However, they cannot live with them unless they have their own immigrant, work, or student visa. The B-2 visa is specifically for those who "reside" (live) abroad and are only visiting the US temporarily. The maximum initial period granted for visitors with B-2 status is six months, after which they need to apply for an extension if they wish to remain longer. It is important to note that visitors with B-2 status are not allowed to work in the US during their visit.
In Canada, international students can invite their parents to visit on a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Citizens of certain countries do not require a TRV and, as of 2016, most visa-exempt persons need an eTA.
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International students in Canada can invite their parents on a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
International students in Canada can invite their parents to visit them on a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). This is a great opportunity for international students to introduce their parents to their new home country and share their Canadian experience with their family.
The process of inviting parents to Canada involves several steps and requirements. Firstly, it is important to note that the specific documents required for entry to Canada depend on the traveller's country of citizenship and mode of travel. While citizens of some countries require a TRV to enter Canada, others may be exempt from this requirement. For instance, U.S. citizens do not need a TRV or an eTA to enter Canada.
For those who do need a TRV, it is important to remember that it cannot be applied for at a Canadian Port of Entry. A medical examination may also be required, which can lengthen the processing time for the application. On the other hand, an eTA is generally required for visa-exempt persons, with U.S. citizens being the main exception.
To invite their parents, international students may need to provide a letter of invitation, including proof of their graduation ceremony date if applicable. Additionally, students may be required to submit various supporting documents for their parents' visa application, such as proof of funds for the stay, travel history, and proof of ties to their country of residence.
In conclusion, international students in Canada have the option to invite their parents on a TRV or eTA, allowing them to share their Canadian experience with their family. By following the necessary procedures and providing the required documentation, students can ensure a smooth process for their parents' visit.
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In the US, international students may need financial sponsors, which can include family members who must submit a Form I-134
International students in the US may need financial sponsors, and this can include family members. The sponsor must file a Form I-134, agreeing to provide financial support to the student for the duration of their temporary stay in the US. This form is a promise to financially support the student and is required in addition to the student's visa application.
The sponsor must be either a US citizen or a green card holder and needs to meet the Federal Poverty Guidelines income level for their household size. They must also be willing to have their finances and tax returns scrutinized by US federal immigration officials.
The process for family members of international students to provide financial sponsorship varies depending on the student's visa status and the country they are from. For example, family members of US citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) have non-employment US immigration options through family sponsorship. However, LPRs cannot sponsor their parents.
In addition to Form I-134, the sponsor may need to provide documentation of sufficient income or financial resources. They must sign the form using their full name and submit it to the appropriate USCIS office, depending on whether the beneficiary is inside or outside the US.
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Family-based immigration is an option for international students and graduates with US citizen or permanent resident spouses, relatives, or partners
Family-based immigration is a viable pathway for international students and graduates with US citizen or permanent resident spouses, relatives, or partners. This option allows them to live and work in the US after graduation. However, it is important to note that the specific immigration routes and requirements depend on the type of relationship, the country of origin, and whether the individual is a US citizen or lawful permanent resident (LPR).
For international students with US citizen spouses, relatives, or partners, family sponsorship can be a viable option. US citizens can sponsor their spouses, children, parents, or siblings for temporary visas or permanent residency green cards. The specific type of visa or residency will depend on various factors and the unique circumstances of each case.
In the case of international students with permanent resident spouses, relatives, or partners, family-based immigration is also a possibility. However, it is important to note that LPRs cannot sponsor their parents, siblings, or married children. Other relatives, such as spouses or unmarried children, may be eligible for family-based petitions. International students in this situation may benefit from exploring options like the I-130 Petition or adjusting their status, allowing them to seek permanent residency without having to return to their home country after graduation.
Additionally, it is worth mentioning that family-based immigration considerations also extend to international students and graduates who are engaged to US citizens or permanent residents. This pathway can provide opportunities for students and their partners to remain together in the US, although the specific requirements and processes may vary depending on individual circumstances.
While family-based immigration is an option for international students and graduates with US citizen or permanent resident connections, it is important to carefully navigate the complex US immigration system. Seeking guidance from immigration specialists, such as Fragomen, can help streamline the process and ensure the selection of the most appropriate immigration pathway.
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Frequently asked questions
International students in the US may not be able to sponsor their parents. However, parents can visit their child in the US on a B-1/B-2 visa or travel under the Visa Waiver Program. Parents and siblings of people in F-1 or J-1 status are not eligible for F-2 or J-2 status.
International students in Canada can invite their parents to visit on a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Canada's immigration policy allows certain family members of international students to come to Canada to work and/or study.
The requirements for sponsoring parents as an international student vary depending on the country and the student's visa type. In some cases, international students may need a financial sponsor, which can be a family member or another individual. The sponsor will need to provide bank statements and asset statements, as well as a consent form.



























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