Query Regarding B-2 Visa Sponsorship Timing when the sponsorer is an H1b holder

Question

Hi! I plan to sponsor my mother-in-law for a B-2 tourist visa while I am on an H-1B visa, valid until May 2025. My employer intends to file for my H-1B extension in January 2025. 
 
Question: Would it be better to schedule her visa interview before or after I file for the extension? Are there any potential implications to this timing since I will be her sponsor? 
 
Thank you for your guidance. 
Best regards

James L. Arrasmith · Answer

While sponsoring your mother-in-law's B-2 visa, it's generally better to schedule her interview before your H-1B extension filing in January 2025. This timing helps demonstrate your stable immigration status as her sponsor during the visa interview process. 
 
Having a valid H-1B status with several months remaining shows financial stability and your ability to support her visit. The visa officer will look at your current status rather than pending applications, so a clear, active H-1B status tends to make the sponsorship process smoother. Additionally, your intent to extend your H-1B can be mentioned as supporting evidence of your continued stability in the US. 
 
If you wait until after filing the extension, there might be questions about your status transition period, which could potentially complicate the sponsorship review. Remember to prepare strong documentation showing your current employment, income, and ability to support your mother-in-law's visit, as these factors typically carry more weight than the exact timing of your H-1B extension.

Q: Query Regarding B-2 Visa Sponsorship Timing when the sponsorer is an H1b holder