Q: Can I apply for a U.S. visitor visa to find a joint sponsor and save my marriage?

A: OK before I answer your question, it’s important to point this out. I don’t know what your personal financial situation is but if you guys cannot satisfy the income test, you can satisfy the asset test if either of you have assets that equal three times the amount of minimum income required. For household size of two this would be roughly $75,000. So it’s important to note that even if, you have assets outside the United States, those can be counted in the 864 affidavit of support. As far as your question is concerned, yes, you should be able to get a visitor visa if you’re honest with the officer that you apply, and he reviews your case in its entirety.

A: Applying for a U.S. visitor visa while actively seeking an immigration sponsor presents significant challenges. Immigration officers will likely question your intentions since visitor visas require proving you have no plans to immigrate permanently. Your stated purpose of finding a joint sponsor directly contradicts this requirement, and mentioning this during your interview would almost definitely result in denial.

Your personal circumstances with your wife are understandable and difficult, but unfortunately, they don't change how immigration laws work. The officers reviewing your case must follow strict guidelines about temporary versus permanent intent. Having an ongoing family immigration case makes it even harder to convince them you intend to return to Pakistan after your visit.

Instead of pursuing a visitor visa, you might consider alternative approaches to finding a joint sponsor. Ask your wife to connect with community organizations, religious institutions, or immigration advocacy groups in her area that might help identify potential sponsors. You could also request more information from the embassy about timelines and consequences of delayed sponsorship. While this situation is stressful for your marriage, addressing the immigration process through proper channels offers the best chance for eventual success.