[_jules]

hi Peter, thanks for doing this. My parents were rejected twice for B1/B2 visa (under section 214b I think) - both times before I was a LPR (I had valid visa). Recently the country of citizenship was announced to be joining VWP - as one of the question is "have you even been refused US visa", is it a lost battle for them?

[proberts]

No, it's not a lost battle. Unfortunately, their ESTA applications likely will be rejected outright because of their past B-1/B-2 visa application denials. But it's still possible that they could get B-1/B-2 visas. They should apply again but given their previous denials, they should consult an immigration attorney.

[_jules]

Just to make sure I understand the recommendation: US based immigration attorney for a tourist visa? (I don't want to sponsor them and they have no intention of moving here - they just want to visit and see us & the kids).

[mportela]

I would assume so, since a foreign attorney wouldn't be able to help with US immigration law.