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Mistakes to Avoid When Applying for a Visa
Contributor: Van T. Doan
The U.S. issues visas to allow foreign nationals to enter the country and remain here for a particular purpose and specific period of time. There are nonimmigrant visas, for people who wish to travel, study, or work in this country on a temporary basis. There are also immigrant visas that provide a path to lawful permanent residence (green card) and ultimately, U.S. citizenship.
Most immigration matters have the potential to be complex and confusing, with plenty of potential pitfalls. Applying for a U.S. visa is no exception. Mistakes can result in a denial and make the process longer and more stressful, and the stakes can be high, so it is wise to take steps to maximize the chances that your visa application will be accepted the first time around. Here are several mistakes that you should avoid when applying for a visa.
Failing to Be Accurate and Complete When Filling Out the Visa Application
It is critical for every applicable field on your visa application to be complete, and for the information on the form to be accurate. Simple mistakes can result in your application being denied. One of the most common is overlooking a field that requires an answer. As you complete your visa application form, make sure that you have not skipped a box or field.
It is also easy to make typographical errors when filling out the form. While spelling may not count for many things, it does on immigration documents—so reread your application carefully, double-check the spelling of names and places, and have someone you trust proofread your application if possible.
You should also ensure that you are not providing incorrect information on the form. It doesn’t matter whether an inaccuracy is intentional or not. Don’t guess at relevant dates or places; confirm information is correct before including it in your application.
Failing to Provide Required Documentation
You must provide certain documents in support of your visa application. Depending on the type of application, these may include a valid passport that will remain valid for at least six months after the end of your intended stay in the United States: documentation of your current employment status and, if appropriate, salary and approval of vacation time for your trip; financial statements that show you have the financial means to support yourself during your stay in the country; and proof of the reason for your trip, such as a letter of invitation from family or friends.
Providing Inconsistent Information
The visa application process includes the application itself, supporting documents, and an interview. If your answers to questions across various parts of the process are inconsistent, it could raise red flags and cause your application to be denied.
Examples include inconsistent details about the length or purpose of your visit, your financial situation, or your personal details. You should also be careful to include all relevant information each time you encounter a question, such as regarding your financial status.
Providing False or Misleading Information
It should go without saying, but you should never intentionally lie or provide misleading information in your visa application or in your supporting documents or visa interview, and you should never withhold important information with the intention of misleading officials.
Consular officers are trained to detect fraud. If they detect that you are not telling the truth, it is likely that your visa will be denied. If it is determined that you have made a misrepresentation or committed fraud, you may become permanently ineligible for a U.S. visa. Even if you are not permanently barred from entering the United States, there will be documentation of the fraud and misrepresentation. That may mean that you will have a harder time entering the country in the future and may have to provide much more documentation.
If your visa application is family-based, discovery that you committed fraud could also have a negative impact on the visa applications of other family members.
If fraud or misrepresentation is discovered after you have entered the United States your visa will be revoked and you will be removed from the country. You could even face criminal charges. It is simply not worth it to be dishonest in the visa application process.
Failing to Research Visa Requirements
There are many types of visas, and applying for the wrong type or failing to ensure that you are eligible for the type of visa you need can put a roadblock in your path. You should make sure you know what your visa category requires of you, and avoid applying for a visa for which you are not eligible. If you are not eligible for the visa for which you are applying, your application will be denied.
Failing to Monitor the Status of Your Application
It’s possible that you will be asked for additional information to support your application or receive important updates on your application. It is your responsibility to be aware of any updates or requests and to provide supporting documentation or clarification as needed.
You can monitor your application through the U.S. Department of State’s Consular Electronic Application Center (CEAC); if you are applying for an immigrant visa, you will need to provide your case number. You should also check your email regularly, as you may receive requests or updates via email. Failing to take required action during the time allowed will result in the denial of your application, so don’t make the costly mistake of failing to stay informed.
Failing to Get Legal Help When Needed
You may not need an attorney to apply for a U.S. visa, but it is often helpful to have the right legal help and to ensure that the process goes smoothly. An experienced immigration attorney will ensure that your application is complete and accurate with all required supporting documents and no inconsistencies. Your attorney will also help to prepare you for the visa interview if necessary.
To learn more about what to do (and what not to do) when applying for a U.S. visa, or to get help with your visa application, contact our law office to schedule a consultation.
Categories: Immigration Law
