I’m from Iran and currently in the U.S. on an F-1 student visa. My younger sister wants to visit me for a few weeks. What visa should she apply for, and how can I help improve her chances of getting approved?

She should apply for a B-2 tourist visa at the U.S. embassy in her country. To support her application, she’ll need to show strong ties to Iran, like family, property, or school enrollment; that prove she plans to return after the visit.

You can send her a letter of invitation explaining the purpose of her trip, along with copies of your I-20, student visa, and proof of enrollment. While not required, this can help her demonstrate the reason for the visit during her visa interview.

It’s also important that she can show she has enough financial support for the trip. Bank statements, a round-trip ticket, and a clear itinerary can all help show her visit is temporary and well-planned.