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.

In this article.

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.