Checklist for Parents Visiting USA

This article was last updated and fact checked on July 26, 2024 by Mani Karthik.

Being away from your family in a foreign land can be tough, but the joy of reuniting after a long time is incomparable. However, traveling 8,431 miles on a 15-hour flight can be exhausting, especially for elderly parents.

Here’s a checklist to ensure a safe journey and a comfortable stay for your parents traveling from India to the United States.

Checklist Before the Journey

Passport

• Ensure your parents have their passports handy.
• Have copies in their luggage and electronic form.
• Consider mailing you the copies in advance.

Visa

• Apply for a B-2 visa by filling out Form DS-160.
• Prepare well for the visa interview.
• Note: Parents over 79 usually do not need to appear for an interview.

Tickets

• Book your parents’ tickets together for preferable seats and better prices.
• Book well in advance to save money.

Flight

• A 15-hour flight can be tough. Check out tips to make your journey easier.
• Comfortable clothing is crucial.

Travel Insurance

• Senior travelers have a higher risk of medical expenses.
• Get your parents insured under a good travel insurance policy to avoid hefty American healthcare bills.

Medication

• Passengers can carry prescription medication in its original packaging (except for medical marijuana).
• Advise your parents to bring their medicines, surplus, and prescriptions.

Assistance

• If either parent has a disability, contact the airline to ensure necessary assistance.
• Encourage them to interact with co-passengers if help is needed.

Language

• If your parents are not fluent in English, teach them basic commands and phrases they’ll need until they meet you.

Document Checklist During the Stay

Jet Lag

• Educate your parents about jet lag and how to manage it to avoid ruining their trip.

Familiarize Them with the Culture

• The culture in the USA is different from India and can be overwhelming.
• Take them around and inform them about customs, etiquette, and the general way of life.

Maps and Public Transport

• Teach your parents how to use public transport and cabs.
• Equip them with maps of the subway, bus routes, and the city for independent outings.
• For example, find a printable PDF of the New York Subway here.

Emergency Contacts

• Write down emergency contact numbers and ask your parents to keep them at all times.

Now that you have a simplified process for getting your parents to the United States, you can focus on planning an exciting itinerary and enjoying their company before it’s time for them to return.

All the best!