Denied for a US Visa

Updated: Oct 14, 2022  | Tags: Denied for US Visa

Has your US visa application been recently denied? While the vast majority of visa applications are approved, there are cases where visa case officers don't have enough information or there exist circumstances that make an applicant ineligible.

This video explains why visa rejections happen and what you can do next in the event you are rejected for US visa application. There are a number of ineligibilities that can be overcome, yet other ineligibilities are permanent, unless a written waiver is provided by the US Department of Homeland Security.

Denied for a US Visa

What can I do if my U.S. visa application is refused?

Visa application refusals or rejections can cause distress and disappointment. However, U.S. embassies are helpful in providing information on the reasons for a visa refusal. The key reasons are usually stated on the decision letter or email sent to the primary applicant. Rejected applicants are advised to review this information to better understand the reasons for a refusal.

What is the difference between a visa rejection or a visa refusal?

Visa application rejections occur when an applicant has made a fundamental mistake on the form which makes it impossible to process either automatically or manually. Visa refusals occur after an application has been reviewed and a decision to deny approval has been reached regarding the issuance of a U.S. visa

Can I reapply again for the same U.S. visa after a refusal?

Yes, applicants can reapply for the same visa after a refusal. However, without any changes to their underlying circumstances which were the reason for refusal, any subsequent application will be unlikely to succeed. Applicants should consider using the services of an experienced immigration attorney to assist them with their applications.

Will my previous denial affect future U.S. visa applications?

Usually, the answer to this question is no. However, in the event an applicant has been caught lying or misleading an embassy or consulate representative during the interview or on the DS-160 form, then it is likely that such an action may result in additional scrutiny.

Will I need to pay the DS-160 application fee again?

Yes, when reapplying for a U.S. visa applicants will need to pay the application fees again.

Will I need to attend another embassy appointment?

Yes, applicants will need to attend another embassy appointment if reapplying. However, applicants can also select a different embassy to submit their DS-160 and attend an embassy appointment, so long as the embassy location is in their country of citizenship or residence.