Retired Mumbai Couple Get 10-Year US Tourist Visa Despite Son Being US Citizen

Mr. and Mrs. Kamath's only son had become a US citizen and was getting married in California. They wanted to attend — and also visit their grandkids born there. The challenge: US embassies reject parents of citizens at very high rates, because the assumption is "they'll stay." Three relatives had been rejected at Mumbai Consulate with "214(b) — immigrant intent" stamps. The Kamaths were nervous. We did three things differently. First, we structured the DS-160 to emphasize their strong Indian ties: jointly-owned flat in Bandra, pension income, 40-year marriage, their other adult child (daughter) also in Mumbai with 2 kids, and a 15-year pattern of international travel always returning on time (Schengen, UK, Dubai, Singapore). Second, we prepared a folder (not submitted but ready in hand): return tickets, hotel bookings for non-son locations (Niagara Falls, LA), and a letter from their Mumbai physician about ongoing care. Third, interview prep — we drilled them on the questions officers ask specifically parents of citizens: "Where will you stay?", "Will you work there?", "Why now after 20 years?". The honest answer — son's wedding — was actually the strongest one. Both got 10-year B1/B2 visas approved at Mumbai consulate. Interview took 3 minutes.