After 7 Years Apart, Afghan Translator Reunites with Parents Thanks to Volunteers

Abdul Parwez hadn’t seen his parents in seven years. The only son of Abdul and Bibi, he served with the US Army as a translator before moving to the United States in 2015. After the Taliban takeover of Afghanistan in 2021, Parwez was desperate to reunite with his parents. 

Thanks to a Great Neighbor Guide who helped him navigate the immigration forms, a volunteer who served as a sponsor and IN donors who made it possible for the filing fee to be paid, Parwez petitioned for his parents to join him in the states and began the long wait for reunification. 

Almost three years later, Parwez learned his parents’ applications had been approved! On September 5th, Parwez drove to Dulles International Airport and met his parents outside the terminal. 

“I felt like I was in a dream,” said his mother. “We were so happy. I couldn’t stop crying.”

Parwez says he is overjoyed to have his parents live with him in his home. His father does work around the yard, plants flowers and helps with home projects. His mother can spend time with her three grandchildren anytime she likes.

“International Neighbors hasn’t left our side the last three years,” says Parwez. “I am so thankful for that.”