Social media platforms were abuzz on Friday with reports of a sudden spike in rejections for US B1 and B2 visitor visas. Numerous applicants from India claimed their applications were turned down in the past few days, often without explicit reasons provided by the consular officers.
Consulate Issues Stern Reminder on Visa Rules
This development coincides with prolonged delays in H-1B visa stamping in India, a situation that began on December 15 with the implementation of enhanced social media vetting. In a clear move to address potential misuse, the US Consulate General in Mumbai issued a public reminder about the proper use of B1/B2 visas. These visas are designated for short-term business or tourism and explicitly prohibit employment in the United States.
The consulate's message stated, "Know the rules before you travel. A B1/B2 visitor visa can be used to conduct business meetings and negotiate contracts but you need a different visa to work. Unauthorized employment can lead to deportation and/or a permanent ban from entering America in the future."
An Applicant's Experience: The Unexpected Question
One detailed account came from a Reddit user who faced rejection at the Mumbai consulate. She explained to the visa officer that her purpose was to attend business meetings with a client and the client's suppliers. However, she was taken aback when the officer asked, "Who are these suppliers?"—a question she was not prepared to answer in detail.
Despite clarifying that she oversees client-supplier relationships for her job, a point already mentioned in her DS-160 form, her application was denied. She received a 214(b) refusal slip, indicating she failed to demonstrate strong ties to her home country or sufficiently justify the purpose of her visit.
Mounting Frustration and Perceived Randomness
This incident has fueled discussions online, with many Reddit users expressing frustration. A common sentiment is that securing a visa has become a "chance game" under the current heightened scrutiny. Some applicants speculate that visa officers are increasingly relying on subjective factors, including an applicant's body language during the brief interview, to make quick judgment calls.
The situation is further compounded by the ongoing, months-long delay in H-1B visa stamping, creating a climate of uncertainty for Indian professionals and visitors seeking to travel to the United States. The consulate's proactive warning suggests a crackdown on any perceived blurring of lines between permissible business activities and unauthorized work on visitor visas.
