Travel Visa Denial: Common Reasons

Introduction 

In 2024, the US Department of State refused 2,497,104 B1/B2 Visa applications.

Are you planning to travel to the US on a B1/B2 visitor visa but unsure what to expect? It is normal for you to feel lost while finalising your travel plans to the US. The US government rejects millions of B1/B2 travel visa applications annually. However, you can significantly reduce the chances of your visa getting rejected by understanding the reasons for travel visa rejection and avoiding the most common mistakes. 

What are the Common Reasons for Denial of Travel Visas?

Here’s a list that we have compiled of the most common reasons and mistakes that lead to the denial of travel visas:

Mistakes in your DS-160 

Form DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, is the first step of applying for a B1/B2 visa. While completing the form, keep your passport, travel itinerary, and dates of your last five visits to the US with you. Make sure your responses are true and correct. 

Financial Issues

Attach and submit as many financial documents as possible to assure the Department of State (DOS) that you can financially support yourself and pay for your flight and accommodation. This will prevent a denial of your travel visa. 

Improper Filing Fee

The fee involved in the travel visa process is subject to periodic change. Before making any payment, make sure you check the latest fee schedule. 

Applying From a Country with High Visa Denial Rates

Some countries, with a history of political instability, economic hardship, low development levels, or visa violations, face higher denial rates than others. If you are a citizen of any of these countries, you may find it more difficult to get a travel visa. To maximise your chances of approval, ensure that your application is complete and without mistakes.

Invalid or Expired Passport

Your passport should be valid for at least six months after you enter the US. If needed, get your passport renewed before making your travel plans. 

Not Providing a Clear Travel Itinerary

Provide a clear and detailed travel itinerary to explain why you want to travel to the US, such as where you will be going, how long you will be staying, and what you plan to do.

Insufficient Ties to Home Country

A B1/B2 travel visa is a single-intent non-immigrant visa. Generally, you cannot use this to immigrate to the US and get a green card. In your application, mention that you have sufficient ties to your home country and plan to return after your trip. 

Previous Immigration Violations

If you have a history of visa overstays, visa denials, or other immigration violations, your travel visa application may not be approved. You may apply for any inadmissibility waivers (if applicable) and ensure that you prevent making any mistakes in your present application. 

Visa Interview Gone Wrong

With your travel visa application, you are laying the groundwork. However, the travel visa interview at the US Embassy/Consulate is the final and most important step in your application process. Be well prepared on the interview day and confidently answer all questions. 

Inconsistent Information

A common reason for travel visa denial is not being consistent in your responses or answers. Answer accurately and truthfully at all steps of the application process. 

Peak Visa Demand

Though it is not your fault, another reason for travel visa denials is when many tourists apply for the same visa during peak demand. Avoid filing your first-time applications during tourist seasons or the holidays.   

How Can FileRight Help You? 

Each travel visa application is different. At FileRight, we understand that and provide unique, tailored advice for what suits you best. Our error-free application software minimizes the chances of errors in your application and gives you a unique checklist so you don’t forget to attach any essential documents.

Book a consultation with our expert travel visa lawyers to get your application reviewed by an experienced lawyer!