Reply #2: i'm no expert on tourist visas, but ... [View All]

It would be helpful to show them a return ticket, even if it's open-ended. Just make sure he can get a full refund if they turn down the visa.

If he's currently employed or in school, have the employer/school write a letter that he's working/enrolled, in good standing, etc... If they ask about it at the interview, he can give it to them. It will help establish that he has a life in Argentina waiting for him.

In the application, include your name & home address or address of your family as his contact in the US, so they know he'll be in the company of "real" people.

As for how he would present himself ... just tell him to act like a tourist, which he is! If the INS officer is chatty, talk about things he plans to do in NY, like catch a Broadway show (hope the stage hand strike is over!), see the Status of Liberty, good Chinese food in Chinatown. Hey! Try to get tickets to The Daily Show or Letterman! :)

In the past 19.5 years, I've been through student, visitor, & work visas, green card and citizenship. For the most part, for legal immigration matters, the INS's bark is worse than its bite. Don't let the stern language put you off. That's just the way they talk.

I would not worry too much about your friend's visa -- I'm sure he'll get it without a problem. But you should be very worried about being able to produce a White Christmas! :P