B1/B2 Application

[Techsol 0]

Is it true that if I apply for a B1/B2 visa and it is denied that I can no longer enter the US? I read a few places that I would not be able to? Thx

[KULtoATL 1,552]

You can only enter the US as a tourist with a B2 visa if you're not from a VWP country. Without it, you cannot enter.

 

Upon a denial, you can re-apply again provided that your circumstances have changed to address the initial denial reason.

[Dashinka 26,010]

I have heard of several stories of people applying for a visitor visa multiple times, being denied most of the times, and then getting an approval.  Also, denied visitor visas generally have no effect on applications for other visas assuming there is no misrepresentations at the B1/B2 interviews.  Therefore, the answer to your question is no you cannot enter the US legally if you don't have a valid visa, but a B1/B2 denial, does not mean a ban for life.

[Techsol 0]

Thanks all. I have been to the US many times for short trips, 1-2 weeks and last year 90 days on a road trip, next year we want to shoot for 6 months so should apply for a 6 month visa, but if that visa should be denied then will I still be able to apply for an esta to travel in the US, not 6 months of course, just short trips?

[KULtoATL 1,552]

Just now, Techsol said:

Thanks all. I have been to the US many times for short trips, 1-2 weeks and last year 90 days on a road trip, next year we want to shoot for 6 months so should apply for a 6 month visa, but if that visa should be denied then will I still be able to apply for an esta to travel in the US, not 6 months of course, just short trips?

There's no such thing as a 6-month tourist visa. A B2 is generally issued for 10 years, allowing multiple entries. At a US POE, a CBP officer will generally grant up to 6 months per entry. 

 

As for ESTA, I'm not able to answer since I don't come from a VWP country 

[Mollie09 1,543]

If your B2 is denied, you cannot apply for ESTA, at least not for a while.

[Unlockable 7,322]

If you are from a VWP country then, yes, a denied B2 can jeopardize your ESTA status.

 

Best to stick with the "bird in your hand" you have now (privilege of the VWP program). Can you change your plans to reduce it to less than 90 days?

 

 

[Fr8dog 439]

Having a current ESTA, being from a VWP country and having traveled several times to the USA without overstaying are all good things when applying for a B1/B2. But do not underestimate the process.

Should you decide to apply, have the required documents for proofing ties to your country ready. Also have a good explanation for why you need the visa. Bring financial proof to show that you can afford to be in the USA for 6 months without income and have enough to take the trip.

Should you be generating income while in the USA be aware that this may be viewed as working in the USA and that is not allowed.

 

So it is definitely an option to get the visa (I did it), but do not underestimate it. You may want to turn to the local topics and embassy reviews for more information.

Edited July 1, 2017 by Fr8dog

[Boiler 47,705]

6 hours ago, NuestraUnion said:

If you are from a VWP country then, yes, a denied B2 can jeopardize your ESTA status.

 

Best to stick with the "bird in your hand" you have now (privilege of the VWP program). Can you change your plans to reduce it to less than 90 days?

 

 

Agree

 

You have to update ESTA and roll the dice.

[June2017UK 430]

Speaking from experience, I was denied a B2 visa which in turn has scuppered my ESTA. I think it was because I'm self employed and a part-time student, single female, no kids. The interview was over within 90 seconds. The CO kindly mentioned it was something to do with my employment but gave me no other details.

 

I'm now engaged and on the K1 visa journey but if anything happened to my fiancé (God forbid) I can't even enter the US to be by his side right now. It's an awful feeling and position to be in and so I highly recommend you cut your trip down to 89 days max and travel on an ESTA if you're from a country on the VWP. 

Happy travels.