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What happens if your visa application is rejected

Find out what to do if your visa is denied, and learn if you are eligible for a waiver of grounds of inadmissibility.

When you interview for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate, a consular officer decides if they will accept or deny your application. If they deny your application, you have the right to ask:

• Why your visa application was denied
• If you are eligible for a waiver on the grounds of inadmissibility (if the waiver is approved, you may be issued a visa)

Learn more from the Department of State about visa denials , including:

• How to qualify for a visa
• Reasons you might be ineligible for a visa
• If you can reapply for a visa
• How to apply for a waiver on the grounds of inadmissibility

LAST UPDATED: December 8, 2023

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Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

If My US Visa Is Rejected, When Can I Apply Again?

Whether employment visa, student visa, or non-immigrant visa, getting a refusal is disheartening.

In such a case, one question might arise in everyone’s mind – If my US visa is rejected , when can I apply again?

The short answer is – you can apply again for the visa depending on the reason for your refusal. If your refusal is for specific circumstances that need to be changed, it’s suggested that you wait until you resolve the issue.

TLDR; Make sure to learn the refusal reason and correct them. Then re-apply for a new visa.  

Did Your Circumstances Change?

When you re-apply for a US visa , the new visa officer will try to find what exactly changed since the last refusal. If you go for the interview with the same preparation, the outcome like be the same.

Either your circumstances need to be changed significantly or you need to come up with an updated application and interview strategy.

Can I Apply for a US Visa if I Was Rejected 3 Times?

The simple answer is YES.

Many people think applying for a US visa is impossible if the visa officers reject you 3 consecutive times.

In reality, it is a complete misconception.

How Many Times Can I Apply for a U.S. Visa After Rejection?

You can apply for a US visa unlimited times regardless of number of rejections. However, there are conditions.

Unlimited doesn’t mean you keep applying repeatedly without checking and correcting your mistakes.

It is crucial to learn what went wrong when the visa officer rejected your application. Then, correct those mistakes during the next application.

Remember, every time, you have to submit supporting documents. Also, updating the information is essential.

So, the prime point is:

You can apply for a US visa for unlimited times. All you need to do is learn the reason for rejection and update your information.

However, if you are involved with fraudulent information on a previous application, you can permanently be ineligible for a US visa.

How do You Increase Your Chances of Getting a US Visa?

Consulate officers make decisions by examining a few points during the visa interview. Here are a few tips that will help you increase your chances of getting a US visa.

1. Employment

Do you have a stable job in your home country?

If yes, your chances of getting a US visa increase. Also, the visa officer will check how long you have been working, your job type, and your salary to determine your economic and financial ties with the country.

2. Show and Prove Strong Ties to Home

Showing sufficient proof of strong ties to home is crucial. Such a thing proves that you will return to your home country after the visit. There are a lot of factors that can prove your strong home ties, including your left-behind family members, social economic conditions, immovable assets, etc.

Otherwise, the visa officer may refuse your visa if they suspect you are trying to misuse the visa.

3. Prepare an In-depth Travel Itinerary

The Visa officer will ask you a few questions, such as,

• When do you intend to travel to the USA?
• Where are you planning to travel?
• Why are you traveling?

Prepare your travel itinerary with a precise location and travel intention in mind. Be remindful; more details mean better.

4. Practice for the Visa Interview

Unfortunately, many non-immigrants overlook visa interviews. In reality, it is a crucial step.

Your visa will be rejected if all your papers are OK but you fail to satisfy the consular officer during the interview. US visa is interview-based, so the visa officers will hardly ask for any documentation. All they need is the information you provide.

So, prepare yourself ahead of time. Carry all the supporting documents. Practice for the interview by answering the most commonly asked questions.

Seek Expert Guidance

If a US Visa officer says no to your visa request, don’t worry. You can try again. But don’t just blindly keep applying. It’s better to seek legal help or expert consultancy. A legal professional or expert can figure out what happened with your last application and how you can overcome the situation on your next application .

Greece Visa Service Starts in Dhaka, Bangladesh

Us visitor visa documents checklist (b1-b2 tourist, business & family), 18 thoughts on “if my us visa is rejected, when can i apply again”.

Mytouris،U.S.A visa rejected but all douments were perfect how will I come to know my rejection in which information was not given I will come to know any clue so next it will more perfect please give suggestions

Please assist me to know where the problem was.

They should have given you the reason for the rejection. The bad thing is US immigration can actually reject you for anything and it doesn’t have to be on their list. For instance, this past May, my fiancé went for her visa interview. She passed every single question finances reason to come home, etc., etc. but then they asked her a work question. Have you ever worked for OFW ( Overseas Foreign Worker) she said yes, I worked in Kuwait, but have not worked for UFW since 2016. As soon as she said that they denied her with the stamp.. Very upsetting. The thing is there really are no rules and each immigration officer can deny you or approve you for just about any reason.

how should i find out why my B1/B2 visa was rejected, bcoz there was no any details given by officer during my interview, and i was full of supporting documents

Hello sir, it’s not possible to get the exact details of why your visa has been refused. However, experts can give you ideas with second by second interview experience analysis and reviewing your visa application form.

If you need any expert help, you can feel free to email us and one of our consultants will be able to help you.

During appointment was told that I didn’t have enough funds in a bank account is why I was denied I always have my money in cash don’t leave it in the bank now I know you have to show that and that was the reason why I was denied how long do I have to wait to reapply For a tourist visa

Hi there,trust this finds you well.Please I was rejected twice. I need assistance in over turning . How do I get assistance.

I got 4 US visa rejection 5 years ago (all in 2019) 2 B1/B2 and 2 J1 Visa due to lack of ties while I was still a student abroad but I made a costly mistake of not adding my kids to my first application and discovered this after making the payment but I left it that way for all my applications back then.

Now, I’m planning to reapply for a US Visa. Can I include my kids in my application now and admit that I made the mistake back then if asked at the interview or I should not add them not to create complication in my visa application?

I’ll really appreciate your help.

I was denied without reasons,but i hope to reareply

Bonjour, je suis agent militaire dans mon pays d’origine. Mon visa a été refuse malgré tout les documents familiales, bancaires, professionnels et autorisation de sortie du territoire que j’ai présentés a l’agent. Je ne sais ou m’orienter et j’ai vraiment besoin d’aide pour la prochaine fois. Merci

Thanks for your guidance but one I question for you rejection is ok because there is some reason of rejection but the behaviour of interview officer is too rude they treat us not a human being, their behaviour’s are soo bad she behaviour damage my self respect please tell them about their attitude thanks

Got 2 times denial of non immigrant visa.How can i increase my chances for next interview?

I had an visa interview at Hyderabad. I m planning to go on tour with Chariot international tours and fixed the tour date for 25th July to 11th August 2024 for 18 days. I m a senior citizen. I was asked a few questions which I answered. But surprisingly my visa was rejected. I do not know the reason. I m surprised and disappointed as I have spent quiet a sum for this purpose Can I get the visa stamped or get another date for interview so that I can proceed with my tour

I helped my fiancé hire a professional group to help her with a visa process. It was quite expensive, but they made sure she did everything correctly. Everything that was expected of a visa applicant she had taken care of. She went to the visa agency that was helping her she did mock interviews and everything and felt very comfortable the day before the interview. When she got to the actual visa interview, they asked her five general questions which she passed without any problem. Then they asked her as they saw her application that she worked for OFW, which is Overseas Foreign Workers. She answered correctly and said yes I worked in Kuwait, but have not been with OFW since 2015. She put this on her paperwork so she did not hide it or lie about it. As soon as she said that she was denied. The thing is US immigration can actually deny you for anything and everything. It doesn’t have to do with the list. She was denied because she was working overseas to take care of her kids and prepare to build her business in the Philippines, which she became quite successful at when she got home. So she was in tears and could not understand why she was denied because of a place she worked at where a high percentage of Filipinos work for because the money is much better.

What is the main reasons to be rejected by the consul officer, when someone worked as OFW? It is inhuman be considerate. Being an OFW especially in kuwait or iraq or any country, it is difficult to be away from their family in order to give their family a better future. Just like when my sister undergone an interview in US embassy , Philippines, When the consul asked my sister , if she worked in iraq? My sister answered Yes, i worked in iraq in a US military Base, as soon as he heard this, the consul officer denied or rejected her to issued a US visa. because of her honesty she answered Yes i worked in Iraq in US military base (2008-2010) 14 yrs ago. (Imagine she worked in a US military base) when the consul heard that he said: i am sorry i cannot give you a US visa. Whats wrong with that? Just like that? Imagine she worked in a US Military Base in Iraq still being rejected for US visa. Be considerate to the OFW especially those previously worked in Iraq and kuwait.

what is it that i can do next if my US diversity visa application has been refused on grounds related with education and work experience

Hi I study in Pakistan but live in Qatar.So I applied for b1/b2 visa from Qatar for clinical rotation in USA. She asked me questions about my fathers salary, siblings I had. Didn’t looked at NOC from college or acceptance letter from clinic I was going to rotate at . she didn’t even see bank statement. And refused visa under section 214b and told me she cant accept this time. And didnt tell the reason. What should I do next?

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Why does my US Visa Status on CEAC say Refused after my interview? With Jacob Sapochnick

Many of our followers have been asking a very important question, what does a visa “refusal” mean and what is 221(g) Administrative Processing?

The situation unfolds something like this. You’ve applied for a non-immigrant visa and have attended your Consular visa interview. After attending your interview, you check the status of your visa on the State Department’s Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC) webpage , and you see the dreaded words “Refused.”

What does this all mean and what can you expect if you find yourself in this predicament? In this video, attorney Jacob Sapochnick walks you through the meaning of a “refusal” and how you can still be successful in obtaining a visa despite this obstacle.

Applicants for nonimmigrant visas can check the status of their visa cases by visiting the State Department’s Consular Electronics Application Center CEAC launch page  .

To check your status, you must enter your DS-160 confirmation number and the Consular location (Country and City) where you were interviewed.

The DS-160 confirmation number can be found on the DS-160 confirmation page and starts with AA followed by 8 digits.

Once you have successfully entered the online CEAC visa check system, you will receive one of the following results:

(1) Application receipt pending

If you have submitted your online non-immigrant visa application (DS-160), it has not yet been processed into the visa system. At some locations, your application will remain in this status until you appear for an interview or until your application is ready for review. Please see the Embassy or Consulate website for information on the next steps required for visa processing.

The application data has not been entered into the Embassy system.

For interview cases, the application will remain in this status until the applicant appears for an interview.

For mail-in cases, this means the Embassy has not received the application.

(2) Application Received

Your case is open and ready for your interview, fingerprints, and required documents. If you have already had your interview, please check your status after two business days. If no interview was required, please check back in two business days for the updated status of your application.

For mail-in cases:  The visa application has been received by the Embassy and is undergoing review.

This also includes cases that are pending for additional documents

(3) Administrative Processing

Your visa case is currently undergoing administrative processing. This processing can take several weeks. Please follow any instructions provided by the consular officer at the time of your interview. If further information is needed, you will be contacted. If your visa application is approved, it will be processed and mailed back within two business days.

This status includes:

• The visa issuance process (visa has been approved but not yet printed)
• Pending for additional documents/information

Your visa is in final processing. If you have not received after 10 working days, please see the webpage for contact information of the Embassy or Consulate where you submitted your application.

The visa has been issued

(5) Refused

A U.S. consular officer has adjudicated and refused your visa application. Please follow any instructions provided by the consular officer. If you were informed by the consular officer that your case was refused for administrative processing, your case will remain refused while undergoing such processing. You will receive another adjudication once such processing is complete. Please be advised that the processing time varies and that you will be contacted if additional information is needed.

This includes cases that are:

• * Administrative Processing (See below for details)
• Cases with a waiver request pending.
• For E-visa new company registration cases:  The visa application has been received by the Embassy and is ready for review. Please wait for further instructions from the Embassy or Consulate. Processing time for new company registration typically takes at least 3 weeks.

For the purposes of this video, we will focus on what the visa status “refused” really means.

Applicants can receive a visa “refusal” for a number of different reasons.

In many cases, applicants are left confused upon seeing a visa “refusal,” especially where the Consular officer has told the applicant that their visa has been approved following their visa interview. In other situations, applicants have received a “refusal” after following the Consulate’s instructions to submit documents via dropbox (for instance for applicants seeking H-1B visa stamping). Applicants who have been told their cases have been placed in 221(g) administrative processing also receive a visa “refusal.”

Before March 3, 2020, any case that required further documentation or information before a decision could be made would automatically receive the visa status “administrative processing.” Additionally, if the Consular officer could not make a decision by the conclusion of the visa interview, applicants would also receive the same “administrative processing” status.

However, after March 3, 2020, the State Department changed its procedure and began “refusing” cases where further documentation, or information was needed from the client, or where the client was placed in 221(g) administrative processing,

A Visa Refusal is not the same as a “Denial”

A visa “refusal” is not a denial of the visa application. Instead, a “refusal” means that the case will remain on hold until the case goes through further processing. This means that the Consulate will place your case on hold until the documentation or information it has requested from you has been received. Additionally, for cases placed in 221(g) administrative processing, applicants will typically undergo additional background checks, and during this process the case will remain refused until the Consular officer is prepared to make a final decision.

When an applicant receives a visa “refusal,” the processing time for a decision to be made on the case can vary widely depending on the reason for the refusal. In most cases, a decision is made soon after the requested documentation or information is provided, however in more complex situations such as 221(g) administrative processing it could take longer than a year for a final decision to be issued.

Refusals for those placed in Administrative Processing

The State Department indicates that there are typically only two possible outcomes for complete and executed U.S. visa applications. The Consular officer will either issue or refuse the visa.

If a visa applicant has not established that he or she is eligible for a visa, the Consular officer will refuse the visa application.

However, in some cases, a consular officer may determine that additional information from sources other than the applicant may help establish an applicant’s eligibility for a visa.  In such cases, refused visa applications require further “administrative processing.”

Once the case-specific administrative processing has concluded, the Consular officer may decide that an applicant is now qualified for the visa he or she has applied for.

On the other hand, the officer might decide that the applicant is not eligible for the visa he or she is seeking.

When administrative processing is required, the Consular officer will typically inform the applicant at the end of the visa interview. The duration of the administrative processing varies based on the individual circumstances of each case. Visa applicants are encouraged to apply early for their visas, well in advance of their anticipated travel date in case of receiving administrative processing.

What does a visa refusal under section 221(g) administrative processing mean?

A visa refusal under section  221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act  (INA) means the applicant did not establish eligibility for a visa to the satisfaction of the consular officer, under the law.

When an applicant is refused under 221(g), it means the Consular officer determined that the applicant was not eligible for the visa after completing the visa application and any required interview.

When a consular officer refuses a case under 221(g), she or he will convey to the applicant whether the applicant is required to provide any further documentation or information, or whether the case requires additional administrative processing.

Reconsideration of previously refused visas

It is possible that a Consular officer will reconsider a visa application that was refused under 221(g) at a later date, based on additional information or upon the resolution of administrative processing, and determine that the applicant is eligible for the visa they are seeking.

Can a refusal under section 221(g) be overturned?

Yes.  If an application was refused under section 221(g) and the Consular officer specifically told the applicant to provide documents or information, the applicant must provide a complete response as soon as possible.

A Consular officer will request additional information from the applicant if he or she believes the information is relevant to establishing that the applicant is eligible for the visa sought.

If the Consular officer refuses a visa, but requests additional information, an applicant has one year from the date the visa was refused to submit the additional information. Otherwise, if an applicant does not provide the required additional information within one year, the applicant will have to reapply for the visa and pay another application fee.

Wait Times for Administrative Processing

If an application was refused and a Consular officer indicates administrative processing is required, processing times can vary based on individual circumstances.  If an applicant’s situation presents a unique hardship, applicants should inform the Consular section where the visa application was made. In some instances, administrative processing can take longer than a year to come to a conclusion.

Communicating with the Consulate

Whatever your situation, it is important that you remain in constant communication with the Consulate. If further documentation or information has been requested from you, provide it as soon as possible. If you have not heard back from the Consulate within a reasonable period of time, you must constantly follow up by emailing the Consulate on a regular basis until you receive a decision for your case.

If your case is denied, you will receive an official notice of denial from the Consulate (different from a visa refusal on the CEAC webpage).

If your case has been stuck in administrative processing for more than a year, you should seek a consultation from an attorney who can determine what options you may have to resolve your case.

Contact Us Today.   We hope that this information was helpful. If you have any further questions or would like to schedule a consultation, please  text 619-483-4549 or call 619-819-9204.

Helpful Links

• U.S. Embassies and Consulates
• Visa Status Check Online Information
• CEAC Visa Status Check
• Administrative Processing Information
• Visa Appointment Wait Times
• February Visa Bulletin
• USCIS Processing Times
• Chats with Charlie YouTube Channel
• Immigrant Visa Backlog Report
• DOS Visa Services Operating Status Update
• ImmigrationLawyerBlog
• ImmigrationU Membership 
• Success stories
• Youtube channel 

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214b Refusal: Understanding Visa Denial and Next Steps – ATT LAW

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Visa applications can be challenging, and as experienced immigration attorneys at Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, we understand that encountering a 214b refusal can be a significant hurdle. Under the Immigration and Nationality Act, a consular officer may deny a nonimmigrant visa if the applicant fails to prove strong ties to their home country or if there is insufficient evidence to support the intended purpose of the applicant’s qualifying trip to the United States. This is commonly referred to as Section 214(b), and it requires a thorough understanding of the underlying principles to effectively address.

Our commitment to navigating the complexities of the U.S. immigration system equips us to provide professional and confidential assistance for visa applicants facing these challenges. Every case is unique, and we pride ourselves on offering a customized approach tailored to each client’s specific circumstances. 

Our team offers professional guidance and legal assistance in the face of the often-daunting Section 214(b ) refusal. Whether you need to understand the details of a 214(b) refusal or require support in reapplying for a visa, our wealth of experience and deep knowledge of immigration law can be pivotal in pursuing a positive outcome. 

Understanding 214b Refusal

When an individual applies for a temporary visa to visit the United States, they may be subject to a 214b refusal under section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act. This refusal implies the applicant has yet to convince the consular officer of their intent to leave the U.S. after a temporary stay. As experienced immigration attorneys, we understand visa applicants’ challenges and provide professional guidance to navigate through them.

The Presumption of Immigrant Intent: Section 214(b)

Section 214(b) operates under the presumption that every applicant for a visitor visa is an intending immigrant. This assumption is based on the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), specifically Section 214(b), which states, “Every alien shall be presumed to be an immigrant until he establishes to the satisfaction of the consular officer, at the time of the application for admission, that he is entitled to a nonimmigrant status.” 

This means it is the applicant’s burden of proof to display strong ties to their home country, indicating they will return after their temporary visit. The categories of visas most impacted by these refusals include tourism, business travel, and exchange visitor visas.

Assessing Strong Ties: Factors Considered by Consular Officers

At Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, our method involves a detailed assessment with consular officers abroad to determine substantial connections to one’s home country. These ties are vital in determining ineligibility for a visa under 214b refusal. Consular officers assess various facets:

Family Relationships : A spouse, children, or other close family remaining in the home country.

Property Ownership : Real estate or other significant assets owned in the home country.

Employment : A stable job that the applicant plans to return to.

Financial Stability : The applicant does not need to seek employment in the U.S.

We convey these factors through a steadfast representation of your case, ensuring that you have the best possible support to demonstrate your eligibility for the visa you seek. Our compassionate and competent team has assisted numerous families and individuals, ensuring that their temporary visits to the United States are justified and their visa status is lawful.

Common Reasons for 214b Refusal

Visa applicants often need help with the interview process, which can lead to a 214b refusal. As experienced immigration attorneys, we’ve observed that a common reason for denial under Section 214(b) is failure to demonstrate adequate ties to the nationality act in an applicant’s home country. This suggests the person may not return after they visit the United States.

Given each individual’s unique circumstances, defining what qualifies as sufficient ties varies. It is crucial to understand the aspects that define an applicant’s connections to their home nation. An immigration lawyer can evaluate each applicant’s distinct scenario and offer guidance on establishing robust ties that align with the criteria for a successful visa application.

Understanding the interview intricacies is crucial. For example, a lack of eye contact or consistency can inadvertently indicate interview problems to the consular officer, potentially leading to a visa denial . Our role is to prepare clients for these interviews, emphasizing the importance of clear communication and honesty.

Key Factors Contributing to 214b Refusals

Here are key factors contributing to 214b refusals:

Limited Ties : Failure to show strong family, social, or economic ties to one’s home country.

Financial Resources : Insufficient financial stability to support the visit to the U.S.

Intending Immigrant : Appearing to be an immigrant in disguise, without the proper immigration visa.

Additionally, consular officers conduct interviews to assess if the provided information complies with U.S. law. Each case is unique, and we provide professional and confidential assistance to ensure our client’s visa application fee properly demonstrates their intent and qualifications for visiting the United States. 

Our dedication to family-based immigration motivates us to prepare every client thoroughly for successful visa interviews, minimizing the possibility of refusals. If you have faced a 214b refusal or need guidance through the visa application process, our firm can guide you through these challenges with experience and personalized care.

Impact of 214b Refusal on Your Visa Application

When a visa applicant faces a 214b refusal, it impacts both their current visa categories and potential future visa applications. Under US law, specifically the Immigration and Nationality Act, this refusal signifies that the applicant cannot decisively prove nonimmigrant intent or strong ties to their home country.

Navigating Steps After 214b Refusal: The Reapplication Process

Without the option of an appeal process, those who have been refused must carefully consider their next steps. You must fill out a new application form, submit the application fee, and arrange a new interview appointment for reapplication. Visit the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you intend to reapply to familiarize yourself with the reapplication process.

When reapplying, it’s crucial to provide new and convincing evidence demonstrating significant changes in circumstances or enhanced ties to the home country must be presented. The absence of an appeal process emphasizes the importance of meticulous preparation for the initial interview, including understanding the specific requirements of the visa category for which one is applying.

It’s crucial to demonstrate strong ties to one’s home country to counter the presumption of immigrant intent. Employment, family connections, and long-term plans should be clearly outlined. Addressing the reasons for previous denial is important for nonimmigrant visa applicants considering reapplication. Applicants must show that their circumstances have significantly changed or have compelling new evidence to support their nonimmigrant status.

Enhancing Your Reapplication: Building a Compelling Case

When preparing to reapply for a student visa, having a clear agenda aligning with the visa sought is vital. The applicant should be prepared to provide detailed documentation and a thorough explanation during the visa interview to avoid common pitfalls and establish their eligibility.

At Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, we understand the delicate nature of the administrative processing of visa applications and the profound impact a 214b refusal may have. We dedicate ourselves to guiding clients through the complexities of the immigration system with professionalism and integrity. We are here to assist in preparing a robust reapplication that addresses the consular officer’s concerns from the first application.

You can seek our legal services if you require assistance or further clarification on proceeding after a 214b refusal or any immigration-related issues.

How Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law Can Help

At Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law, we practice navigating the complex immigration system and assist clients facing the challenge of a 214b refusal. Our dedicated team is well-versed in the intricacies of the immigrant visa application process, including the criteria consular officers consider when determining eligibility for a work or employment visa.

Detailed Evaluation

When faced with a 214b visa refusal, it’s crucial to comprehend the reasons behind the denial. We evaluate your original application, taking note of any aspect that may have led to the refusal. Armed with a thorough analysis before visa denial, we focus on strengthening your reapplication.

Tailored Legal Assistance

Employment Visa Applications : Our experience allows us to provide strategic advice on presenting a compelling case that aligns with the legal requirements.

Visa Appeal : If feasible, we guide you through the complexities of challenging the refusal.

Documentation : Ensuring that the paperwork robustly supports the visa application is paramount, and we assist in compiling and reviewing all the necessary documents.

Action Plan 

Our approach to visa issuance is not one-size-fits-all; we tailor our legal strategies to suit the unique circumstances of each case. Whether you’re an individual seeking a work visa or an employer looking to support an employment visa, our legal team stands ready to assist with professional and confidential advice.

Secure Your Future with Andrew T. Thomas: Take Action Today

We dedicate ourselves to turning obstacles into chances at Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law. A 214b refusal doesn’t mark the conclusion of your immigration path; rather, it signifies progress in honing your application for triumph. Count on our team for individualized legal guidance that suits your specific circumstances.

For those who need legal assistance or wish to learn more about immigration law delegates and how we can aid in overcoming a 214b refusal, contact Andrew T. Thomas, Attorneys at Law . We aim to provide you with the professional support necessary to successfully navigate the visa application process.

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Is US Visa Refusal the Same as Denial?

When it comes to the intricacies of US visa applications, applicants often find themselves perplexed by the terms “visa refusal” and “visa denial.” Are they the same, or do they carry distinct implications? Understanding these differences is crucial for anyone seeking to visit or immigrate to the United States. In this article, we will delve into the nuances between US visa refusal and denial, shedding light on common misconceptions and providing essential insights to navigate the visa application process with confidence.

US visa refusal and denial are terms that are sometimes used interchangeably, but they have different implications. Let’s explore the key distinctions between the two:

US Visa Refusal: Understanding the Basics

Visa refusal refers to the situation where a consular officer denies the issuance of a visa to an applicant based on specific grounds. These grounds may include incomplete documentation, ineligibility under the chosen visa category, or concerns about the applicant’s intentions during their stay in the US.

US Visa Denial: A Closer Look

On the other hand, visa denial is a broader term that encompasses various scenarios. It refers to instances where a visa application does not meet the necessary requirements and fails to establish eligibility for the visa category. Denial can occur due to reasons such as criminal history, misrepresentation, or lack of sufficient ties to the home country.

Reasons for US Visa Refusals

While visa refusal can happen for various reasons, some common grounds include:

• Incomplete Documentation: Failure to provide all required documents as per the visa application guidelines.
• Lack of Strong Ties: Inability to demonstrate significant ties to the home country, raising concerns about potential overstay.
• Criminal Records: Previous convictions or involvement in criminal activities can lead to a visa refusal.
• Ineligibility: Not meeting the specific eligibility criteria for the chosen visa category.
• Health-Related Issues: If an applicant poses a health risk to the public or lacks required vaccinations.

Consequences of US Visa Refusal

Facing a US visa refusal can be disheartening and may raise concerns about future applications. Some consequences of visa refusal include:

• Loss of Application Fees: The application fees paid are generally non-refundable even in case of refusal.
• Impact on Future Applications: Multiple visa refusals may negatively impact future visa applications.
• Extended Delays: Dealing with a refusal can lead to delays in travel or relocation plans.

Overcoming a US Visa Refusal

While a visa refusal can be discouraging, it is essential not to lose hope. Here are some steps to overcome a visa refusal:

• Understanding the Reason: Obtain a clear understanding of the reason behind the refusal from the consular officer.
• Addressing the Concerns: If possible, address the concerns raised by the officer and provide additional documentation.
• Reapply Wisely: If the reasons for refusal are resolved, reapply for the visa with updated and comprehensive information.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can i appeal a us visa refusal  .

Yes, in some cases, applicants have the option to appeal a visa refusal. The process varies depending on the visa category and the US embassy or consulate. However, not all visa refusals are appealable.

How long should I wait before reapplying after a refusal?  

There is no specific waiting period mandated by the US Department of State. Applicants can reapply as soon as they believe their circumstances have changed or their application has been strengthened.

Does a visa refusal affect my eligibility for other countries’ visas?  

A US visa refusal does not automatically affect your eligibility for visas in other countries. However, it is essential to be honest about previous refusals when applying for visas elsewhere.

Can I apply for a different type of US visa after a refusal?  

Yes, you can apply for a different visa type if you are eligible for it, even after a previous refusal. Ensure that you address any concerns that led to the refusal in your new application.

Are there certain visa categories more prone to refusals?  

While refusals can happen across all visa categories, some, such as tourist visas, tend to have higher refusal rates due to the large volume of applications.

Can I reapply at a different US embassy or consulate after a refusal?  

Yes, you can reapply at a different US embassy or consulate after a refusal. However, keep in mind that the decision is ultimately based on your eligibility and the merits of your application.

In conclusion, US visa refusal and denial are not the same, each carrying specific implications for applicants. Understanding the reasons for refusal, the consequences, and the steps to overcome it can be invaluable for individuals seeking US visas. Remember that a refusal does not necessarily mean the end of your journey; with determination and preparation, you can improve your chances of success in subsequent applications.

Do you need support with your US visa application?

Contact our team of skilled immigration lawyers to discuss your visa and immigration needs.

Call us on +234 812 5505 986 or WhatsApp us at +234 818 1547 085 for immediate assistance with your situation. We are available to assist you in person, over the phone, or online.

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Home » Visas » Visa Refusal and Re-Application Tips

USA Visa Refusal and Re-Application Tips

There are many different types of ineligibilities for US visas under the US Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). Below are three of the most commonly seen grounds of US visa ineligibilities. There are others as well that are not mentioned here.

If you are refused a visa at one consulate, do not try your luck at another consulate. E.g., if you are rejected in Chennai, do not go to Mumbai or Delhi. You will be asked to go back to Chennai for reapplication. All of the applications, your answers, etc., are computerized and maintained centrally. Also, the same rules apply at all the consulates, and all officers are trained the same way with the same rules. Just because you get another officer at reapplication does not mean you will get a visa. They have access to your old records, will think about it the same way, and will give the same consideration as the previous officer. Of course, “luck” may play some role. If your application is rejected, the last page in your passport will be stamped “Application Received” with the date and location of the rejecting consulate. A consular officer will recognize this notation as meaning that some type of prior visa application has failed, and they will look closely into your application. If you think you are smart and try to overcome the problem by a getting new, unmarked passport, that would not work either because they have centrally computerized records.

As per “The Homeland Security Act – 2002”, it is compulsory to computerize all nonimmigrant visa applications. It is compulsory to enter all the details of rejection reasons in the applicant’s records. When the applicant applies again in the future, the consulate officer must review the prior notes for rejection reasons. If the officer decides to grant the visa this time, they need to justify the reasons for overruling the previous decision and note the same in the system.

Travel Agent/Visa Consultant Help: It is not required to hire any travel agent or visa consultant for a US tourist visa process under most circumstances. All the information you require for a visitor visa is right here on this website, immihelp.com. They charge a lot of money to fill out the forms, many of which are available for free on this website, and we have step-by-step guides to help you through the visa procedure. Many consultants make lots of false promises, such as being able to get early appointment dates, knowing people in the consulate and getting favors through them, advising applicants to give wrong or misleading answers for the interview. Do not fall into the trap of travel agents, visa consultants, or immigration consultants who tell you that they know someone in the consulate and will guarantee you a visa. While someone can legitimately help you prepare the necessary forms and documents, they can’t get any favors from the officers. Whether you use any consultant or not, you are responsible for your own application and answers. If the consulate officer finds out about any incorrect or misleading answers, you will jeopardize your chance of getting a visa, and it may also have an adverse impact on future attempts.

Congressman/Senator Help: Many people think that if your visa is rejected, getting a letter from a congressman/senator will help.  Complete details

Bonds/Assurances/Guarantees: Some people ask whether they can sign a bond with the US Consulate. In other words, they deposit a certain amount of money with the Consulate, and if they don’t return within a fixed period, the deposit will be forfeited. No such system exists with the US Consulate. It is not possible to offer any bond for assurance of return unless the US Consulate specifically asks for it, which they rarely do.

Many people who are inviting their relatives to visit the USA. are willing to write a letter that indicates that the sponsor will make sure that the visitor will return to their home country after the authorized stay. Such letters or guarantees have no meaning and no value with the US Consulate. This would not help getting the visa at all.

Exerting Pressure: The decision of the consular officer that interviews you is final. It does not help asking to get your case reviewed by the US Consulate General, US Ambassador, or those involved with affairs of the US and the home country. These tactics don’t work. Instead, you are likely to create unwarranted paperwork in your case, and it may delay your case if you have a chance to get a visa under normal circumstances.

Do not try to offer bribes to anyone. That will just hurt your case, and you may lose your chance to go to the USA permanently. Also, do not try to influence the officers by contacting MPs, Ministers, or other politicians and asking them to refer or recommend your case to the consular officer. It does not affect the consular officer, and they are not required to listen to anyone, just to follow the rules and regulations.

B1 Business visa holders cannot start doing business in the USA. A B1 visa is given for business-related activities, such as meeting potential businessmen and companies, taking or giving orders, taking part in a conference or exhibition, and so on. Business visa applicants must have a good command of English. In the absence of that, it would be very difficult to conduct business meetings.

Some people mistakenly believe that if their visa application is rejected once, they get blacklisted, and if they get rejected once, they cannot apply again. You can apply as many times as you want. However, before reapplying, analyze the reasons for rejection and work on those. Some people mistakenly believe that there is a monthly or daily quota for visas, and after that, they just reject everyone no matter what. That is simply not the case, and there is no quota. Some people mistakenly believe that some officers are there just to reject visas. Others mistakenly believe that the person before them messed up, was rejected, and now the officer is upset, and even though their own application was correct in all aspects, it was denied because of that other person. These are just myths, so don’t believe them.

The 214(b) Intending Immigrant Provision: Nonimmigrant visa applicants in almost all categories must demonstrate to the consular officer’s satisfaction that they have strong ties to a permanent residence outside of the US. which would compel them to leave the US upon the completion of their authorized stay. The consular officer evaluates the applicant’s economic, social, and cultural ties to their residence in order to determine whether it is more probable that the applicant will return to his or her home country within the period of authorized stay in the US or whether it is more likely that the applicant will remain in the US. There is no set “list” of documents an applicant should bring; rather, an applicant who can convincingly explain the reasons for travel, present believable business or personal documents to substantiate their ties to the home country, and can answer questions in an open manner is more likely to be issued a visa than someone who comes in with a huge folder of irrelevant or clearly questionable documents.

All  application fees and service charges  must be paid for each application.

Time, staffing levels, and growing lines outside do not permit officers to take phone calls on behalf of visa applicants.

Candidates can apply in person as many times they want. Consulates will not accept applications by postal mail.

This is a sample letter from a person whose mother-in-law’s visa was denied, later reapplied and got a visa the second time. While this does not, in any way, guarantee that your relatives would get a visa too if you write such a letter, it may be helpful for you to draft a letter like this.

Sample letter 2

You cannot provide a bond saying that you will definitely return unless the consular officer specifically asks for it.

Some ineligible applicants seek help from a “visa consultant”. Be careful. If you do decide to hire a consultant, remember that you alone are responsible for the accuracy of the information in your application. 

If you have been refused under INA Section 214(b), please indicate your previous refusals, with the dates, if you still remember them. The consular officer will review your application and inform you of the decision. 

US Consulate officers also look at several factors, such as:

• Whether the applicant has a good stable job or business in the home country with good income, as well as the nature of the work.
• Whether there are other relatives in the home country, such as children, grandchildren, and a spouse that they would come back for.
• Whether the applicant has traveled to the USA. in the past, and if yes, how long they stayed. If the person extended the stay, they must carry the proof of the previous extension approval (or rejection). The officer also looks at how much time the applicant spent in the USA previously, and if the person applies again too soon, the visa may be rejected. A person on a B2 tourist visa that is going to the USA just for tourism can’t stay in the US for most of their time.
• How often the applicant’s relatives in the USA visit family back in the home country.

Denial under this section is not permanent. If you think your circumstances have changed significantly since the last application, or if you have new information that was not presented to the consulate officer the previous time, you may apply again. You can reapply any time after 3 business days following the previous rejection. You don’t have to wait for 6 months or longer. However, it is very unlikely that your circumstances would change significantly within 3 days.

No Opportunity Provided to Explain Many people think that their visa interview was very short, the officer hardly looked at the documents, and the visa was rejected, which was very unfair. However, consulate officers handle thousands of applications, and they are very experienced. They can quickly figure out what questions they want to ask based on the overall application, and that includes several aspects of your case: your situation in your home country, your stated intent in visiting the US, your previous travel history, your financial situation, and many other factors. They will only ask what they think is necessary to make the decision. Most of the information they are looking for is already there in the application form. Did Not Look at the Documents Sometimes, even if you bring all the documents that you can think of, the visa can still be rejected. The consulate officer looks at the overall situation, and if that is not adequate to overcome the presumption of the intending immigrant, the visa still may be rejected. In other words, the problem is not the documents, but your overall situation (as supported by those documents). Applying for a nonimmigrant visa is not a documentary process. Consular officers never rely solely upon them, as they do not fully establish an applicant’s intentions. Documents can only help, but that is not everything. Depending upon the specifics of your case, the consular officer may or may not have needed to examine your documents closely to make a decision about your eligibility for a visa. You should bring the documents anyway in case the consular officer needs to refer to them. If the consular officer made a decision in your case without detailed scrutiny of your documents, it was because other circumstances of your case were clear. If your visa was refused, it is highly unlikely that any document you could provide would significantly alter the consular officer’s decision about your case. No Refund of Fees If your visa was rejected, there is no refund of any of the fees you paid. Finding Reason for Denial If you or your relative’s visa was denied, you may want to know the reason for it. Information may not be provided to third parties about a particular visa applicant, because under the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), section 222(f), the records of the Department of States relating to visa decisions are confidential.

However, certain information may be provided to the petitioner in visa cases or attorneys representing a visa applicant, to members of Congress, or other persons acting on behalf of and with the permission of the applicant. Please send an e-mail to the US Embassy/Consulate  where the applicant was rejected. Student Visa Applicants : Some students are confused when, after presenting a Certificate of Eligibility for Nonimmigrant Student Status (I-20) from their chosen school in the US, they are ineligible for a student visa. Just as with visitors, Section 214(b) requires students to show that they intend to leave the US after they finish their studies. An I-20 is one of several documents that allow you to apply for a student visa, but it cannot guarantee your eligibility. Students may be ineligible if it appears that their primary purpose is not to obtain an education that will advance their life in their home country but will instead facilitate an indefinite stay in the US for themselves or their family.

The 221(g) Ineligibility: If an applicant is refused under this section, it is because she/he is missing a document or some other piece of evidence which the consular officer needs in order to render a final decision on the applicant’s eligibility for the visa. Generally, the applicant will be told what types of documents might satisfy the consular officer. A new visa application form should be filled out; however, no new application fee is due for a period of one year following the initial 221(g) refusal.

If you have been refused a visa under Section 221(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), you may reapply at any time. At the time of refusal, you will be told whether you can reapply using the dropbox facility, whether you have to come in person after making an appointment, or if you can apply in person without any appointment.

If you reapply in person, please bring your refusal letter with the 221(g) stamp to the Visa Section entrance, and ask to re-apply.

If you are told to come in person without an appointment, you have to just appear at the consulate in the morning. You don’t have to fill out the DS-160 again. The old DS-160 filled at the time of the original application would still be valid. You do not have to pay the application fees again if you reapply within one year of the earlier rejection. Visa rejection under section 221(g) is not actually a “rejection”. It is a visa ineligibility. It means the consular officer is unable to determine the outcome of the visa application at that time. The possible reasons are missing documents or that a personal appearance was required. You have to pick up your passports at the consulate office the next day. This follows from the fact that the logistics fees paid at the time of application had been used for delivering the passports. They will not deliver the passports twice since the fees that were paid were for a one-time delivery only. Also, note that the application center will not provide any service since you did not have an appointment. If you want service, then you have to purchase tickets.

If you have been requested to wait until the consulate contacts you, please do not make an appointment. Your case requires further administrative processing, and the consulate will contact you once this has been completed.

More details

212(a)(6)(C)

The 212(a)(6)(C) Ineligibility: Applicants should be truthful in all areas of their visa applications. Applicants who willfully misrepresent material facts on their immigrant or nonimmigrant visa applications can be found permanently ineligible to enter the US If you present forged, counterfeit, or otherwise false documents, you are likely to fall under this provision of the law. Sample USA visa rejection letter

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Top 4 U.S Visa Refusal Reasons and How to Appeal

US Visa refusal can be disappointing feedback that happens sometimes to people during visa application. As you know, a US Visa application is a basic step to go through whenever you want to travel to the US or renew your visa. Your Visa can be granted but sometimes can be refused.

Visa refusal refers to the act of denying your entry into a particular country by rejecting your visa application. Visa rejection may happen when you fail to prove your eligibility to visit a particular country.

Moreover, many things make one eligible and qualify one entry into the United States of America. If any of those things are missing or not satisfactory, one’s Visa can be refused or rejected.

Therefore, this article will explain the reasons why a US Visa can be refused, the ineligibility waiver, how to reapply when your Visa is rejected, and also explains about a refund when your US visa is refused.

Meaning of US Visa refusal

Visa refusal can be seen as the act of denying your entry into the United States of America by rejecting your visa application. US Visa refusal or rejection may occur when you fail to prove your eligibility to visit the United States of America.

Moreover, the United States of America has a very detailed and specific visa policy, according to the standards of which applications are approved or rejected. So after a thorough review of your Visa application and an applicant interview at the US embassy, the consular can refuse your Visa if it does not meet the standard policy for acceptance. Otherwise, your visa can be accepted and you will receive a permit to travel to the US.

Reasons for US Visa Refusal

Generally, US Visa refusal can happen for several reasons. This is because, under US immigration law section 104(a) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, consular officers at US Embassies and Consulates have the sole authority to approve or deny visa applications that do not satisfy the US immigration law.

Normally, each embassy or consulate of the US around the globe, in case of visa denial, tells and shows to the applicant the reason for refusal and the section of the law by which your visa is refused. Such reasons could be:

• Incomplete Application or Supporting Documentation
• Visa Qualifications and Immigrant Intent
• Public Charge
• Fraud and Misrepresentation
• Unlawful Presence in the United States

#1. Incomplete Application or Supporting Documentation

A visa denial under INA section 221(g) means that the applicant did not present to the consul a complete application with all the necessary information, or that supporting documentation was missing. This does not mean that your application has been rejected since you still have the chance to correct your mistake and provide the embassy with the missing information or supporting documents before a final decision on your case is taken.

Upon getting informed that your application is incomplete, you will receive a letter that will tell you the exact reason for being found ineligible and what document or information is missing. You will have a one-year period of time to submit them, since if not, your case will be dismissed and you will have to apply again from the beginning, including paying a new visa fee.

Under this section, the embassy or consulate might also decide to process your application further, which means they will conduct further security checks or investigations, often through another agency. Most of the administrative processing is resolved within 60 days after the visa interview. However, if the case is forwarded to the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or some other agency, it might take several months to complete.

#2. Visa Qualifications and Immigrant Intent

Only applicants of nonimmigrant visa categories can be rejected under this section of visa law. The denial of a visa application under INA section 214(b) means that the applicant failed to convince the consular officer that he or she qualifies for the nonimmigrant visa he or she applied for, and also that the applicant has strong ties with his or her home country and does not intend to immigrate to the US.

When it comes to strong ties, the applicant can best prove that he or she does not intend to stay in the US if he or she:

• has a job is married/engaged / in a relationship
• or has property (house, land, etc.) in his /her home country
• has children (to whom the applicant is the legal tutor)
•  and has good relations with family members and friends.

Note : The applicant cannot appeal for this ineligibility. However, since it is not permanent, the applicant might reapply if he or she considers that there are significant changes in their circumstances. In case of reapplication, the visa fee should be paid again, and another appointment for a new interview will be fixed.

#3. Public Charge

A visa application rejected under section 212(a)(4) of the INA means that the consular officer decided you were very likely to become dependent on the US government for your existence and financial support once in the US, which is otherwise called a “Public Charge”.

Since this is not permanent ineligibility, it can be overcome in certain circumstances. Persons who apply for an Immigrant Visa

Immigrant visa applicants who were denied entry to the US under INA section 212(a)(4), can still re-apply for a visa if they can submit an Affidavit of Support from a qualifying sponsor. This is a document through which a US resident takes over the responsibility to financially maintain an immigrant during his or her stay in the US. The Affidavit of Support should be accompanied by bank statements or pay slips of the sponsor that show he/she is capable of financially supporting you.

Some visa categories do not require an Affidavit of Support, therefore you will have to prove that you will not become a financial burden to the US government, through:

• Your funds (you will have to prove you have enough money through a bank statement, pay slips, and other ways.)
• A job offer in the US

However, the submission of the above-mentioned will not guarantee you the issuance of a visa, since the consular officer will decide whether the financial support evidence you submit is sufficient to overcome your ineligibility.

Persons who apply for a non-Immigrant Visa

The nonimmigrant visa applicants who were denied entry to the US under INA section 212(a)(4) have to prove that they are capable of financing themselves during their stay in the US. The consular officer will again check your documents and decide whether you have sufficient funds to overcome your ineligibility or not.

#4. Fraud and Misrepresentation

If you try to obtain a visa by falsely representing facts or committing fraud, then your visa application will be rejected under INA section 212(a)(6)(C)(i). If you try to hide the fact you have relatives in the US, or you have been convicted of committing crimes in the past, this is considered fraud. This is permanent ineligibility, therefore you will not be issued a visa no matter how many times you apply.

If there is a possibility to apply for an ineligibility waiver, then the consular officer will advise you to do so.

#5. Unlawful Presence in the United States

If you were refused permission to enter the US under INA section 212(a)(9)(B)(i) then this means that the reason behind the visa denial is that you were considered to have been unlawfully present in the US. That is you have either:

• Stayed in the US after your authorized period of stay expired and you did not extend your stay, or
• You entered and stayed in the US without obtaining the required authorization from the Customs and Border Protection

If you have been unlawfully present in the US for more than 180 days but less than a year, then you will not be able to get a visa for three years after your departure. On the other hand, if you have illegally stayed in the US for more than a year, then you will be unable to obtain a visa for 10 years after you depart from the US.

Other ineligibilities that can lead to US Visa Refusal

Aside from the aforementioned reasons for being found ineligible for a visa to the US, there are also other ineligibilities as follows:

#1. Health-related grounds

The following categories of people that have health-related issues are ineligible to obtain a visa to the US:

• An applicant who is determined to have a communicable disease of public health significance,
• And An applicant who has a physical or mental disorder and behavior associated with the disorder that may pose, or has posed, a threat to the property, safety, or welfare of himself/ herself or others, and which behavior is likely to happen again or to lead to other harmful behavior,
• An applicant who is determined to be a drug abuser or addict.

#2. Criminal and related grounds

Any foreigner who has ever been committed criminal activity, murder, drug trafficking, human trafficking, genocide, money laundering, etc., is considered ineligible to enter the United States.

#3. Security and related grounds

Any foreigner considered by a consular officer or the Attorney General, as a risk to the security of the United States will be refused entry. If the authorities suspect that the applicant is trying to get to the US to perform illegal activities such as violating the law, trying to control or overthrow the government or involve in terrorist activities. Miscellaneous

The people below can also have a US Visa Refusal

• Foreigners coming to the US to practice polygamy,
• A guardian accompanying an inadmissible person,
• A foreigner who supports Abductors,
• As well as former citizens who renounced citizenship to avoid taxation.

Ineligibility Waivers

In most cases, applicants are advised by the consular officer to apply for a waiver of their ineligibility, if applicable in their case. The ineligibilities (reasons for visa denials) might be temporary or permanent.

Those with temporary ineligibilities can reapply for a visa in case they overcome them. On the other hand, those with permanent ineligibility can only re-apply in case a waiver of that ineligibility is authorized by the Department of Homeland Security.

Therefore, the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) allows applicants who were denied a visa for particular ineligibility, to apply for a waiver of that ineligibility. If approved, the applicant might obtain a US visa. However, it is up to the Department of Homeland Security to decide whether to approve a waiver for each particular visa applicant or not.

Moreover, each applicant is informed about their ineligibility and whether they can apply for a waiver, upon their visa refusal. The consular officer will also give directions on how to apply for a waiver.

Conditions for Ineligibility Waiver

• Have ineligibility for which there is a waiver.
• Applicants for migrant visas should make sure that the waiver applies particularly to their situation.
• Have only one particular ineligibility, aside from being fully qualified for the visa.
• Applicants for a nonimmigrant visa should also be recommended by the consular officer to the DHS for a waiver.

US Visa Reapplication

If your ineligibility that was found during your first application is considered to be temporary, then you can re-apply for a visa if you consider that your circumstances have changed. The consular officer will decide whether you are eligible for the visa or not.

If your ineligibility is found permanent, but the consular officer considers that everything else is okay with your application and advises you to apply for a visa waiver then you still have a chance to get a visa.

Refund fee for Refusal Visa

Your visa application fee can be refunded. This is when the visa application of the foreigner wishing to obtain a visa to enter the US is refused, the applicant will not get back the money he or she paid for his application fee. In case of reapplication then the fee has to be repaid also.

What happens if your US visa is refused?

When your visa application is refused under section 221(g), you will be given a written letter notifying you of the visa refusal and will have 12 months from that date to submit the requested documents without having to reapply and without having to pay a new visa application fee.

Can you apply for a US visa after refusal?

Take an honest look at your life situation and your U.S. immigration history to determine the reasons why you were refused a tourist visa. While you can’t appeal the consular officer’s decision, the good news is that the decision is not permanent and you can reapply for a visa at any time after your refusal.

How do I overcome US visa rejection?

Similarly, you can reapply if your visa application was denied the first time but be sure to bring the best supporting evidence for your case. To follow through with reapplying, contact the U.S. consulate/embassy in your country and ask them about the steps.

What is the difference between visa refusal and rejection?

What do us visa officers check.

Visa Interview Questions. The visa officer will ask you questions related to your study plans, university choice, academic capability, financial status, and post-graduation plans. The grueling study plan will probe into your interest in the academic field of your choice.

Do visa officers check social media?

It’s not unusual for a case officer to check your social media accounts when deciding on your application. Within the industry, it is common knowledge that Case Officers can – and do – check social media accounts when determining whether to grant certain visa applications

Can you appeal a refused visa?

Generally, only the petitioner may file an appeal or motion of a denied or revoked visa petition

How long after a US visa refusal can I apply?

Do refused applicants have to wait three to six months before reapplying? There is no time restriction on applying for a refusal. If additional information or supporting documentation is available which may further demonstrate the applicant’s qualification for a visa, an application may be resubmitted.

It is possible for a consular at the US embassy in your country to refuse or reject your visa but the reason for the refusal must be given. However, we believe you have understood why your visa can be refused hence helping you prepare your travel in a way your visa can not be rejected. You can also find information about visas like F1 visa , H1B visa , E2 Visa , K3 Visa and others from our website.

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What happens if your us student visa is cancelled.

Securing a US student visa is just the beginning for international students. Maintaining it is crucial, as violations like prolonged absence, unauthorized transfer, or fraudulent activities can lead to revocation. Immediate steps include understanding the reason, contacting university services, reapplying or appealing, and seeking legal assistance if necessary.

What Could Lead to Cancellation?

• Prolonged Absence: If a student leaves the US for more than five months without informing their academic institution, their visa may be revoked. This absence violates the visa’s conditions.
• Unauthorized Transfer: Changing schools without updating visa records can lead to visa cancellation . If this transfer information is not properly recorded, it could result in the student being marked absent.
• Fraudulent Activities: Engaging in any fraudulent activities, such as submitting false documents or working without authorization, may cause visa revocation.
• Failure to Meet Visa Criteria: A student may lose eligibility for their visa due to changes in their circumstances or other emerging information.

What to Do if Your Visa is Cancelled

• Understand the Reason for Cancellation: Begin by identifying why the visa was cancelled. Whether it’s due to prolonged absence or an administrative issue, understanding the cause will guide your next actions.
• Contact Your University’s International Student Services (ISS): The ISS office can provide support and resources, including advice on reapplying for the visa or appealing the decision.
• Reapply or File an Appeal: If you believe the cancellation was a mistake or based on circumstances that can be explained, such as a medical absence or a valid transfer, you may reapply for your visa. Supporting documentation and explanations should accompany this application.
• Seek Legal Assistance: In more complicated cases, seeking legal counsel from an immigration attorney may be necessary. Legal experts can guide you through the process and help present your case to authorities.
• Check Your Insurance: If you have travel or student insurance, review your policy for coverage related to visa cancellations. Some policies offer reimbursement for non-refundable expenses like flight or accommodation.
• Stay Calm and Informed: Though the situation is stressful, clear communication with your university, legal advisors, and understanding the process can help you navigate it effectively.

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The Visa Bulletin

Visa Statistics

Laws & Regulations

Accepting, Serving in, or Performing Duties of a Position with the Government of a Foreign State - Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) Section 349(a)(4)

Loss of U.S. Nationality and Service in the Armed Forces of a Foreign State - Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) Section 349(a)(3)

Nonimmigrant Visa Statistics

• Monthly Nonimmigrant Visa (NIV) Issuances

Multi-Year Reports

• Classes of Nonimmigrants Issued Visas (Including Border Crossing Cards): Fiscal Years 2019 - 2023
• Nonimmigrant Visas Issued by Classification (Including Border Crossing Cards): Fiscal Years 2019 - 2023
• Nonimmigrant Visas Issued by Issuing Office (Including Border Crossing Cards): Fiscal Years 2014 - 2023

For multi-year reports, please select a Report of the Visa Office .

Nonimmigrant Worldwide Issuance and Refusal Data by Visa Category

• FY2023 NIV Workload by Visa Category
• FY2022 NIV Workload by Visa Category
• FY2021 NIV Workload by Visa Category
• FY2020 NIV Workload by Visa Category
• FY2019 NIV Workload by Visa Category
• FY2018 NIV Workload by Visa Category
• FY2017 NIV Workload by Visa Category
• FY2016 NIV Workload by Visa Category
• FY2015 NIV Workload by Visa Category
• FY2014 NIV Workload by Visa Category
• FY2013 NIV Workload by Visa Category

Nonimmigrant B Visa Adjusted Refusal Rates by Nationality

• Multi-Year B Visa Adjusted Refusal Rates by Nationality (FY2006-FY2023)

Nonimmigrant Visa Issuances by Visa Class and by Nationality

• FY1997-2023 NIV Detail Table    (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2023 NIV Detail Table (PDF)   (Excel Spreadsheet)
• FY2022 NIV Detail Table (PDF)   (Excel Spreadsheet)
• FY2021 NIV Detail Table ( PDF)   (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2020 NIV Detail Table (PDF)   (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2019 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)    (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2018 NIV Detail Table (PDF)   (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2017 NIV Detail Table (PDF)   (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2016 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)    (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2015 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)    (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2014 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)    (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2013 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)    (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2012 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)    (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2011 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)    (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2010 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)    (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2009 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)    (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2008 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)    (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2007 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)    (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2006 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)    (Excel spreadsheet)
• FY2005 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)
• FY2004 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)
• FY2003 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)
• FY2002 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)
• FY2001 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)
• FY2000 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)
• FY1999 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)
• FY1998 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)
• FY1997 NIV Detail Table  (PDF)

Nonimmigrant Visas by Individual Class of Admission (e.g. A1, A2, etc.)*

• FY1987-1991 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY1992-1996 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY1997-2001 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2002-2006 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2003-2007 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2004-2008 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2005-2009 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2006-2010 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2007-2011 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2008-2012 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2009-2013 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2010-2014 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2011-2015 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2012-2016 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2013-2017 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2014-2018 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2015-2019 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2016-2020 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2017-2021 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2018-2022 Detail Table (PDF)
• FY2019-2023 Detail Table (PDF)

*The general table for classes of non-immigrants issued visas is provided in the annual Report of the Visa Office . It is listed as Table XVI (A) “Classes of Nonimmigrants Issued Visas (Including Crewlist Visas and Border Crossing Cards).

INA 212(e) Waiver Statistics

• INA 212(e) Waiver Recommendations - Fiscal Year 2010
• INA 212(e) Waiver Recommendations - Fiscal Year 2011
• INA 212(e) Waiver Recommendations - Fiscal Year 2012
• INA 212(e) Waiver Recommendations - Fiscal Year 2013
• INA 212(e) Waiver Recommendations - Fiscal Year 2014
• INA 212(e) Waiver Recommendations - Fiscal Year 2015
• INA 212(e) Waiver Recommendations - Fiscal Year 2016
• INA 212(e) Waiver Recommendations - Fiscal Year 2017
• INA 212(e) Waiver Recommendations - Fiscal Year 2018
• INA 212(e) Waiver Recommendations - Fiscal Year 2019
• INA 212(e) Waiver Recommendations - Fiscal Year 2020
• INA 212(e) Waiver Recommendations - Fiscal Year 2021

Law & Policy - In This Section

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Is Visa a Monopoly?

The Justice Department is expected to sue the global payments giant as soon as Tuesday, accusing the company of stifling competition.

By Andrew Ross Sorkin Ravi Mattu Bernhard Warner Sarah Kessler Michael J. de la Merced Lauren Hirsch Ephrat Livni and David McCabe

The fight against middlemen comes to Visa

The Biden administration is readying its next big antitrust fight — and it’s against Visa, one of the pillars of the global payments system.

The Justice Department is expected to sue the company as soon as Tuesday, accusing it of illegal monopolistic practices and other unlawful behavior, DealBook’s Lauren Hirsch and The Times’s David McCabe report. It’s the latest effort by federal officials to crack down on corporate middlemen on competition grounds .

At the center of the lawsuit is payment processing technology, which connects a bank to a merchant whenever a purchase is made. The Justice Department plans to argue that Visa punishes customers, including merchants, when they try to use competing services to process payments.

Prosecutors are also expected to say that Visa coerces financial technology firms to work with it by threatening penalties on those who do not, and thus squeezing out potential new competitors. The Wall Street Journal previously reported that the Justice Department was examining incentives that Visa had given to Square, Stripe and PayPal.

The Justice Department has investigated Visa for years, which the company previously disclosed . Federal authorities conducted hundreds of interviews with parties, including retailers, grocery stores and banks, to understand Visa’s agreements with financial technology firms. Investigators looked at the negotiations, contracts and ways in which the penalties were structured.

The origins of the case date to 2020 when the Justice Department sued to block Visa’s $5.3 billion deal for the financial technology firm Plaid, arguing that the deal aimed to stamp out a young competitor. The Justice Department said Visa dominated the debit market for “years” and “protected its monopoly with exclusionary tactics.” (The companies later abandoned the transaction.)

Shares in Visa were down 2 percent in premarket trading. The company has previously defended its practices as being in compliance with the law.

Biden’s antitrust enforcers have made corporate middlemen a major focus. Jonathan Kanter, the Justice Department’s antitrust chief, has spoken about the “tyranny of the middlemen” which cut out the competition and needlessly raise prices.

The Justice Department’s cases in the lead-up to the November election have made these middlemen a prime focus. It has taken on companies including Live Nation Entertainment , the owner of Ticketmaster, and RealPage , a maker of property management software. And the F.T.C. took legal action last week against three major pharmacy benefit managers , accusing them of playing a role in inflating insulin prices.

HERE’S WHAT’S HAPPENING

Markets rise after Fed officials forecast more interest rate cuts. Stock futures were up in premarket trading on Tuesday and the S&P 500 closed at a record high on Monday, after the Fed presidents Austan Goolsbee and Neel Kashkari said they expected the central bank to lower borrowing costs further in the coming months. Goolsbee, a nonvoting member, said the inflation risk was waning, and Kashkari saw the labor market as healthy.

Boeing makes a “best and final” offer to striking union workers. The aerospace giant proposed increasing pay by a third over four years — higher than what was in a tentative contract that employees rejected this month, but less than the 40 percent raise that the union representing striking workers had sought. Boeing gave workers until Friday to accept the new deal, as it seeks to end a work stoppage that has largely stopped commercial aircraft production.

Israel continues airstrikes on Hezbollah in Lebanon after hundreds are killed. Thousands of people fled southern Lebanon as the Israeli military kept up its barrage; Monday’s attacks were its deadliest in the country in nearly two decades. The escalating violence has spurred worries that it could prompt an all-out war between Israel and Hezbollah and a wider regional conflict.

Has China done enough?

China introduced a series of stimulus measures this morning, bolstering markets in Asia and Europe, as Beijing tries to reignite the economy to hit its 5 percent annual growth target.

But will the moves be enough to solve China’s long-term economic challenges at home and abroad?

China’s central bank cut the benchmark interest rate , and lenders’ capital requirements. Officials also announced funding to help brokers, insurers and others to buy stocks, and help for the beleaguered property sector.

Analysts warn that the measures don’t address the economy’s real challenges. The stimulus does not deal with weak domestic demand, George Magnus, a research associate at Oxford University’s China Center, told DealBook.

Had the measures been “followed up by a meaningful fiscal program and a genuine boost to household demand and consumption, along with adequate capital injections to property developers and banks, China’s economy would get a more significant lift,” he said. “But few people are holding their breath.”

The move could bolster exports just as some governments are restricting China trade . The Biden administration on Monday said it would ban Chinese-developed software in internet-connected cars over national security concerns. It’s the latest effort to curtail China’s global E.V. push, after the Biden administration announced 100 percent tariffs on the sector that will take effect on Friday. (That said, there are few Chinese cars on U.S. roads.)

At the same time, Europe is divided over how to manage the influx of Chinese cars. Some, like France’s Renault , want the European Union to impose tariffs. But German brands that have invested in China over decades are doubling down on the country, and have urged the E.U. to cut import duties.

China is bracing for more turbulence after the U.S. election. Whoever wins in November, “Chinese decision makers expect bitter disputes over trade, technology and Taiwan,” Yu Jie, a China expert at Chatham House, a London-based think tank, writes in Project Syndicate.

In other China news: Zhu Hengpeng , one of the country’s most prominent economists, was detained after apparently criticizing China’s leader, Xi Jinping, on a private chat group, The Wall Street Journal reports; and how China is trying to establish itself as center of trade in Asia.

The fight against Big Plastics

For years, environmentalists have sounded the alarm about oil and plastics giants deceiving the public with claims about single-use plastics and recycling, and called on regulators to get involved. California, for one, has listened.

The state’s attorney general, Rob Bonta, sued Exxon Mobil on Monday — during Climate Week NYC — accusing it of carrying out a “decades-long campaign of deception” about recycling that worsened a plastic pollution crisis.

What California is claiming: Exxon Mobil said that its “advanced recycling” program turned used plastics into new products. But most of the waste collected via the initiative was turned into fuel, and new products tied to the campaign contained little recycled material, but were marketed as such and sold at a premium, according to the lawsuit.

Only about 5 percent of plastic waste in the United States is recycled, Bonta’s office said, citing an estimate by a plastics watchdog. That makes corporate recycling claims — including the practice of stamping the “ chasing arrows ” symbol on the plastic products — open to scrutiny.

The fight against oil giants is beginning to echo the battle with Big Tobacco. More than two dozen state and local governments have sued oil companies over accusations about their role in the planet’s climate plight.

Bonta told The Times that he was seeking “multiple billions of dollars” in damages, arguing that Exxon Mobil broke a wide range of California laws, including false advertising, unfair competition and violating pollution statutes.

Exxon Mobil says California is just as much to blame. “Instead of suing us, they could have worked with us to fix the problem and keep plastic out of landfills,” the company said in a statement.

The Biden administration has vowed to end plastic pollution , saying that it is “disproportionately impacting communities with environmental justice concerns, contributing to loss of biodiversity, and exacerbating the impacts of climate change.”

The federal government, a major buyer of consumer goods, plans to phase out the purchases of single-use plastics .

But things could change in a potential second Trump administration. The former president, who has courted industry lobbyists for a $1 billion donation campaign donation in exchange for rolling back environmental regulations, has long played down the risks of climate change .

“I am just notifying John Deere right now: If you do that, we are putting a 200 percent tariff on everything that you want to sell into the United States.”

— Donald Trump , at a campaign stop in Pennsylvania on Monday, responding to its plans to move some production to Mexico. Mark Cuban , the billionaire entrepreneur and a vocal Trump critic, said such a move would be a “good way to destroy a legendary American company and increase costs to American buyers.”

Wall Street’s A.I. pessimist

Goldman Sachs has been both the voice of optimism and caution about the artificial intelligence boom that has helped fuel a bull market rally, and minted a new class of tech billionaires and unicorn start-ups.

The bank’s economists have predicted that A.I. could turbocharge economic growth . And then there’s Jim Covello, Goldman Sachs’s head of stock research. A veteran of the dot-com crash, Covello has become Wall Street’s leading A.I. skeptic, writes The Times’s Tripp Mickle .

Three months ago, he jolted markets with a research paper that challenged whether businesses would see a sufficient return on what by some estimates could be $1 trillion in A.I. spending in the coming years. He said generative artificial intelligence, which can summarize text and write software code, made so many mistakes that it was questionable whether it would ever reliably solve complex problems. The Goldman paper landed days after a partner at Sequoia Capital, a venture firm, raised similar questions in a blog post about A.I. Their skepticism marked a turning point for A.I.-related stocks, leading to a reassessment of Wall Street’s hottest trade.

Covello has been challenged by his colleagues. George Lee, the co-head of Goldman’s geopolitical advisory business, said it was way too early to fully assess the technology’s potential. In a debate that Goldman hosted between the two, Lee cited research that found that A.I. delivered big productivity gains for developers. “People are picking up dimes of productivity savings,” he told The Times.

In other A.I. news: The race is on to build new A.I. systems that never hallucinate . Their focus is on mathematics.

THE SPEED READ

Liberty Broadband proposed an all-stock merger with Charter Communications , in what would be another complicated combination of companies controlled by the billionaire John Malone. (Bloomberg)

The F.T.C. is reportedly poised to approve Chevron’s $53 billion takeover of Hess , its smaller rival. (Reuters)

Elections, politics and policy

“White House climate adviser says Biden’s green spending is secure ” (Politico)

The founder of Telegram, Pavel Durov, reportedly ignored warnings by some of the messaging app’s users to overhaul its content policies years before his arrest in France. (WSJ)

Best of the rest

Why companies aren’t rushing to do layoffs these days. (Axios)

The arrest of Sean Combs has activists and survivors of sexual abuse hoping that the music industry’s #MeToo moment has arrived. (NYT)

Jill Biden, the first lady, introduced a government spending plan to address health inequality issues , including a $500 million annual fund to study women’s health. (UPI)

We’d like your feedback! Please email thoughts and suggestions to [email protected] .

Andrew Ross Sorkin is a columnist and the founder of DealBook , the flagship business and policy newsletter at The Times and an annual conference. More about Andrew Ross Sorkin

Ravi Mattu is the managing editor of DealBook, based in London. He joined The New York Times in 2022 from the Financial Times, where he held a number of senior roles in Hong Kong and London. More about Ravi Mattu

Bernhard Warner is a senior editor for DealBook, a newsletter from The Times, covering business trends, the economy and the markets. More about Bernhard Warner

Sarah Kessler is an editor for the DealBook newsletter and writes features on business and how workplaces are changing. More about Sarah Kessler

Michael J. de la Merced has covered global business and finance news for The Times since 2006. More about Michael J. de la Merced

Lauren Hirsch covers Wall Street, including M&A, executive changes, board strife and policy moves affecting business. More about Lauren Hirsch

Ephrat Livni is a reporter for The Times’s DealBook newsletter, based in Washington. More about Ephrat Livni

David McCabe is a Times reporter who covers the complex legal and policy issues created by the digital economy and new technologies. More about David McCabe

Canada needs to do a 'stronger job' of curbing misuse of visitor's visas, Miller says

Minister says ottawa is also taking a closer look at visa applications from india.

Social Sharing

The federal government needs to do more to prevent misuse of visitors visas by people coming to Canada, Immigration Minister Marc Miller said.

"We've taken a number of measures throughout the summer, particularly to deal with the flow of people coming into the country," Miller told CBC News last week.

"And it's no surprise to anyone that … we need to do a stronger job in making sure that people that are coming here, for example on visitor's visas, do so for those purposes and not for the purposes of ... claiming asylum or finding their way into the U.S."

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reports it encountered 21,929 migrants between border posts on the American side of the Canada-U.S. border between October 2023 and August 2024 – 17,810 of them in the Swanton Sector, which runs along Quebec's border with New York and Vermont.

• U.S. border patrol reports record number of encounters with migrants at the Canadian border
• CBC Investigates This New York farmer is overwhelmed by illegal crossings from Canada, caught on camera
• Smugglers are advertising illegal Canada-U.S. border crossings on TikTok

While that number is nowhere near as high as those associated with the United States' southern border, it's more than twice as many as the 8,686 encountered between border posts on the American side during the same time period in the previous year.

The year before that, CBP encountered only 2,238 migrants between border posts at the northern border.

Of the 21,929 stopped by U.S. Border Patrol officers, 12,992 — nearly 60 per cent of the total — came from India.

Miller said that visa applicants from India could face more scrutiny in future.

"We do see a number of people that are claiming asylum from India, from other countries, who are not getting a positive determination from the Immigration (and) Refugee Board, which is an indication to us that we have to take an increased look at how we accord visas in the first place," he said.

CBC News investigates human smuggling on the Quebec-N.Y. border

Miller didn't offer details of any new measures adopted by his department in response to the surge in border crossings. His office said the government is "exploring visa integrity measures."

"I can't go into all the details because people adjust when I speak publicly about what measures we've taken to turn some of the taps in a different way," he said. "But we're aware of it and we're on top of it."

The flow of migrants has spawned a lucrative business. Posts on social media platforms like Instagram and Tiktok feature migrants who have just crossed the border claiming it was easy to fly to Montreal and then walk into the U.S. 

Miller described those posts as "quite blatant."

Miller said he has discussed the flow of migrants with U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro Mayorkas and David Cohen, U.S. ambassador to Canada.

"I think first and foremost, we owe it to the U.S. government … to make sure we that we are both doing a good job in making sure our borders are safe and secure," Miller said.

He said the networks bringing migrants to the U.S. through Canada operate on word of mouth.

"They're very sophisticated," Miller said. "There are some elements at times of criminality to it. And it's stuff we have to act on in multiple manners, including making sure that our security services have all the information and all the tools to be able to act."

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Senior reporter

Award-winning reporter Elizabeth Thompson covers Parliament Hill. A veteran of the Montreal Gazette, Sun Media and iPolitics, she currently works with the CBC's Ottawa bureau, specializing in investigative reporting and data journalism. She can be reached at: [email protected].

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