Indian man's US visa rejected in 40 seconds after honest answers
An Indian man's aspiration to visit the United States was thwarted in less than a minute during his B1/B2 visa interview at the US Embassy in New Delhi. The applicant, identified by the Reddit username "nobody01810," shared his experience on the platform, seeking insights into the swift rejection he faced.
During the interview, he was asked three questions: the purpose of his trip to the US, his international travel history, and whether he had any family or friends in the country.
He responded truthfully, stating he intended to vacation in Florida, had no prior international travel experience, and had a girlfriend residing in Florida.
Despite his honesty, the consular officer issued a 214(b) refusal, indicating the applicant did not sufficiently demonstrate strong ties to his home country to overcome the presumption of immigrant intent.
The applicant turned to Reddit for advice, inquiring whether mentioning his girlfriend in the US might have contributed to the rejection.
One user responded, "You're a textbook denial, unfortunately. You have zero travel history, especially to Western countries. Plus, a girlfriend in the States? That's a strong tie to the US.
" Another commented, "It's hard to prove you won't overstay when your application is weak due to no travel history outside India and you have a GF in US, whom they probably are assuming you haven't ever met."
Under Section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, applicants must demonstrate strong ties to their home country to qualify for a nonimmigrant visa.
The US Department of State advises that applicants can reapply if they can provide additional evidence to overcome the basis for the refusal. However, without significant changes in circumstances, reapplication may result in a similar outcome.
The applicant now faces the challenge of reapplying, potentially strengthening his case by demonstrating stronger ties to India, such as employment, property ownership, or family obligations, to alleviate concerns about his intent to return after a temporary stay in the US.