Applying for my mom's visitor visa after 2 rejections

[lakulish]

Hi everybody,

I am an Indian citizen working in the US on OPT (currently on STEM extension), which began when I graduated from graduate school with a PhD in computer science in May 2013. Until then, I was in the US for 5 years on an F1 student visa. I have applied for an O1 visa, which is currently being processed.

I would like my mother to visit me for a couple of months. In the past, she has applied for a visitor visa (once in 2010, and once in 2011), and was rejected both times under Section 214(b). Here are the relevant details about her case:

* She is a widow.
* She is now over 60 years old (she was under 60 years old at the time of the previous two rejections).
* She lives in a rented apartment in Mumbai.
* She has a good bank balance, investment portfolio, etc.
* She is a housewife.
* I am an only child, i.e., I do not have any siblings.
* Both times, she opted to self-sponsor.
* Consequently, I did not send an I-134 affidavit of support.

In both interviews, the consular office did not look at any documents she brought, but just asked a few questions about what I do and about her financial situation. The officer then summarily rejected the visa, and gave her the standard 214(b) letter.

So the questions I have are:

* What things can I change to improve her chances at getting a visa?
* How much difference might it make if she were to own her apartment?
* Would it help if I provided an I-134? Or is better for her to continue self-sponsoring?
* I have read the FAQ about letters from senators/congressmen. In this particular case, how likely are they to help?

Any assistance in this regard would be appreciated. Let me know if I should provide further details about any aspect.

Thanks!

[peace999]

no spouse in India and only child in US;
these two factors combined is a huge negative.

It makes the officers think she most likely won't return.
And hence the denial.

You said she has been showing self funding of the trip.
*on what basis did she do that ? since she is a housewife and no income. Does she have good savings? Roughly how much?
* what financial questions were asked of her and what answers did she give ?

[macaque]

lakulish

It will be harder for her to get a visitor visa more so now, as she is older and more likely to need family support.

Please do not take any offense to my comments but you should not leave your widowed elderly parent in India alone for
the so called "American Dream". A phD in computer engineering and applying for an exceptional ability O1 visa, it is obvious you are a bright person.
which means you would do well enough in India with a US degree to support yourself if not be very wealthy or famous.

In the end, what we do for others constitutes good Karma, Not how much wealth and fame we gather.

[ksivasai]

Please can you give an update? I am also in the same situation. My mom's visa got rejected yesterday and we are in a shock on how to proceed further.