i don't live in US..i was visiting....7 days on a B1/B2 US visa......i went in NYC office Monday got visa next day.
U have not address my issue..which is the answer on the application form Question 9 - which country are u apply from...i answer USA....can i now used the same application at her country of residence with a covering letter drawing attention to that answer....well i DHL application today at her nearest embassy with a cover letter..an print out e-mail from NYC who when ask the same question told me YES...but when i physically turn up they give different answer ...thank god i save important emails so i used that with a letter explain reason why i using the same application even tho the answer to question 9 doe's not apply.
Next... if i was legally living in USA i assume i would not need a VISA as i be a legal resident in USA.....So if u r a student or work permit does not actually mean u living in US or fit the definition of Resident.
Previously, i traveled many times to US on B1/B2 Visa and I understand what you are saying. As for your Mom you did the right thing. If you are living in USA or any other countries in the world on student permit or work permit,you are legally temporary Resident of that country. You will be considered not a permanent resident.