B2 visa denied: Applicant claims no docs checked

A recent B2 tourist visa denial at the U.S. Consulate in Kolkata has drawn attention after the applicant alleged that the consular officer rejected the application without reviewing any supporting documents. The case highlights concerns over the transparency and consistency of the U.S. visa interview process, particularly under Section 214(b) of the U.S. Immigration and Nationality Act.

The applicant, a data engineer, had applied for a tourist visa to visit his brother in Seattle. He reported that despite carrying all relevant documents—including an invitation letter, employment proof, and financial statements—the officer based the decision solely on a brief verbal exchange.

“The officer asked about my job, salary, and travel history, then said, ‘Sorry, under this circumstance we cannot process your visa,’” the applicant stated in a detailed account shared online.

According to standard U.S. visa protocol, consular officers assess whether applicants demonstrate strong ties to their home country that would ensure their return after visiting the United States. These ties can include stable employment, family responsibilities, property ownership, or long-term financial obligations.

While supporting documents can be important, officers are trained to evaluate the applicant’s intent based on their overall profile, including responses during the interview. In many cases, officers make quick judgments within minutes, and they are not obligated to examine documents if they believe the applicant has not sufficiently demonstrated non-immigrant intent.

Immigration experts note that denials under Section 214(b) are common and non-appealable. However, applicants are permitted to reapply with additional evidence or clearer articulation of their ties to their home country.

The incident reflects the need for better public understanding of U.S. visa procedures and reiterates the importance of preparing both documentation and a strong, consistent personal narrative when attending visa interviews.