Background:
I am a dual citizen of Italy and Jordan. I have been a resident of Jordan for the last 10 years, where I also currently work in hospitality. I recently applied for a J-1 Visa (Hospitality Trainee) at the U.S. Embassy in Amman and was refused under Section 214(b). The officer felt I did not demonstrate sufficient ties to Jordan.
The Current Situation:
Since the refusal, I have received a full-time job offer in Bolzano, Italy, as a Chef de Rang. I am planning to move to Italy this month to accept this role. My J1 sponsor has informed me that I can re-apply for the visa in February.
My Questions:
Nationality vs. Residence: As an Italian citizen, can I legally interview at a U.S. Consulate in Italy (Milan/Florence) instead of returning to Amman? The State Department website says "Nationality OR Residence," but I am worried that having a recent refusal in Amman will make an Italian officer see me as a "Third Country National" since I haven't lived in Italy recently.
Significant Change in Circumstances: If I re-apply in Amman, does having a prestigious full-time job in Italy count as a "significant change"? I want to show that my professional future is now in the EU/Italy, which provides a stronger reason for me to leave the U.S. after my program.
Consulate Shopping: Does switching the interview location to Italy right after an Amman refusal look like a red flag (Consulate Shopping), even if I am a citizen of that country?
Residency Ties: If I interview in Italy, will the officer be frustrated that they can't verify my 10-year history in Jordan?
I am trying to determine if it is safer to fly back to Amman for the second try or if my Italian citizenship makes the Italian consulate a better option for someone who has a "European" career path.
Any advice from dual citizens or hospitality professionals who have moved between consulates would be huge. Thank you!
