For millions of Americans, having relatives abroad means missing out on life’s most important moments. Births, weddings, graduations, and funerals often pass without parents, grandparents, or siblings present—not by choice, but because of limited visa options.

To address this long-standing issue, Congress has reintroduced the Temporary Family Visitation Act (TFVA), bipartisan legislation that establishes a new visa category for short-term family visits. The bill is led by Representatives Scott Peters (D-CA) and Stephanie Bice (R-OK) in the House. On the senate side, the bill is sponsored by Rand Paul (R-KY) and Richard Blumenthal (D-CT).

What the TFVA Does

The TFVA creates a new B-3 nonimmigrant visa category that allows U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents to petition for their family members to visit the United States temporarily. Covered relatives include spouses, children, parents, grandparents, siblings, aunts, uncles, nieces, and nephews.

To ensure that visits remain temporary and fiscally responsible, the TFVA requires:

• A signed deceleration of financial support from the sponsoring U.S. family member

• Travel medical insurance coverage for the duration of the visit

• Relatives limited to 90 day stay and sign a declaration affirming their intent to leave at the conclusion of stay

• A ban on adjustment of visa status while in the U.S.

• Restrictions on future sponsorship if a previously sponsored relative overstayed their visit

• Certification requirement for repeat petitioners, subject to criminal penalties under 18 U.S.C. § 1001.These provisions provide clear expectations for applicants and sponsors while ensuring that visits remain short-term, lawful, and low risk.

Why It Matters

Current immigration law offers no visa specifically designed for family reunification on a short-term basis. Instead, family members must apply for standard B-2 tourist visas, which often carry high denial rates—particularly for applicants with close relatives in the U.S.

The TFVA addresses this gap by offering a structured, temporary, and enforceable pathway for family visits. It enables Americans to share meaningful moments with their loved ones while maintaining the integrity of the visa system.

The legislation also delivers meaningful economic benefits. According to the U.S. Travel Association, each overseas traveler spends approximately $5,000 during an average stay of 18 nights. These visits support local economies, generate tourism revenue, and create jobs—particularly in hospitality, retail, and transportation.

Take Action

The Temporary Family Visitation Act is a practical, compassionate solution that reflects core American values: family, fairness, and rule of law.

Contact your Members of Congress today and urge them to support the TFVA. With your voice, we can help make sure families are able to share in life’s most meaningful moments—together.

Original Cosponsors:  Reps. Yassamin Ansari (D-AZ), Virginia Foxx (R-NC), Eric Swalwell (D-CA), Brian Fitzpatrick (R-PA), Dave Minn (D-CA), Maria Salazar (R-FL), Jim Himes (D-CT), Cory Mills (R-FL), Brad Sherman (D-CA), Laurel Lee (R-FL), Tom Suozzi (D-NY), Zach Nunn (R-IA), Jimmy Pannetta (D-CA), Gabe Evans (R-CO), James Walkinshaw (D-VA)