Overcoming a Visa Denial
It is important to understand why the visa was denied. The most common reason for a denial of a nonimmigrant visa is failure to convince the consular officer that the student will return to the home country after the period of stay in the United States.
Although an applicant for an F-1 or J-1 visa must convince the consular officer of his or her nonimmigrant intent, it does not mean that if the applicant's situation or plans change that the individual has committed visa fraud. The Department of State recognizes that plans may change.
Before reapplying for the non-immigrant visa, applicants should consider the reason for the denial:
- How did you explain your overall plan for your education?
- What questions did the consular officer ask?
- What information was provided to answer the officer's questions?
- What was the reason that was given for the denial?
After every visa denial, the applicant is given a form on which the officer has identified the reason for the denial. Focus on overcoming issues that may have been a problem at the first interview. Consular officers often look for information that is materially different from what was posed in the refused application. Many consular officers will say that if there is no material change in the applicant's visa application, then there is no point in reapplying. Material changes include but are not limited to new financial information, a new family situation, or a new proposed area of study. Please consider the following questions before reapplying for the visa:
- Did I explain my situation correctly?
- Did the consular officer overlook something?
- Is there additional information I can present to establish my intent to leave the United States?