By J. Lavetsky, Esq.
Beacon Immigration PLLC
August 21, 2023
When applying for a temporary visa or immigration status in the U.S., USCIS often requires the visa applicant to show that they have a residence abroad that they have no intention of abandoning. This is also known as demonstrating strong ties to one’s life outside of the U.S. USCIS maintains this requirement so that immigrants will not overstay their time and continue life in the U.S. without authorization.
The question then arises: when applying for a U.S. visa or immigration status, how can applicants show USCIS that they will eventually return home after being approved?
Let’s discuss a few possibilities for demonstrating strong ties outside of the U.S.
Close Family Connections
If you have close family connections back home, such as a spouse or young children, this can be a good way to show that you intend to return home after your authorized stay in the U.S. runs out. You can include copies of the birth certificates of your children, as well as your marriage certificate or civil partnership agreement.
Sometimes, even more distant family relations fit the bill, for example if you are primary caretaker for sick relatives, such as your grandfather or aunt, and you support them emotionally and financially.
Pension Contributions
Some countries allow or require citizens to contribute to their national pension system, even when working abroad. If you maintain or contribute to a pension, you can submit documentation of this with your visa application to demonstrate that you have a significant financial interest back home that you would be giving up by staying long-term in the U.S.
Property Ownership
If you own property back home, you should include documentation of this with your visa application. Property ownership is one of the best ways to show that your time in the U.S. will be only temporary. You should include a copy of your title or deed with your visa application; if you have a mortgage, you should include a copy of your mortgage, as well as proof that you have been making monthly payments for the past year.
If you are in the U.S. and applying for a change of your immigration status, and you have been maintaining a rented apartment back home, you can include a copy of your lease and show that you are current in your rent payments.
Financial Resources and Bank Accounts
Maintaining bank accounts abroad with substantial funds illustrates financial stability and a strong connection to your home country. Regular transactions, investments, and a history of substantial balances are all important.
Employment and Career Progression
Your stable employment history and career progression back home all show strong ties outside of the U.S. Providing evidence of a secure job, promotions, or opportunities for advancement will reinforce the notion that you have a compelling reason to return home.
Business Ventures
Ownership or involvement in local businesses can serve as an indication of deep ties and a vested interest in your home country.
Conclusion
In sum, there are many ways that you can show USCIS that you intend to return home after visiting, working or studying in the U.S. Tax records, social and community involvement, educational pursuits, and residency status are a few more examples, but you should tailor your visa application to your own unique situation.
If you need help proving to USCIS that you have a residence abroad, please contact Beacon Immigration today: +1 845-288-2435 / beaconimmigrationlawyer@gmail.com.
Beacon Immigration PLLC is a law firm located in the Hudson Valley of New York at 6 Eliza Street, Suite 5, Beacon, NY 12508 (Dutchess County).
