US Visa Rejection: Rs 50 L Savings Didn’t Help

An Indian family’s rejection for a US tourist visa despite strong financial stability, extensive global travel history, and secure employment has gone viral online, raising concerns about fairness and transparency in the American visa process.

The Case

According to reports, the family — including a 36-year-old IT operations head and his parents — had over ₹50 lakh in savings, valid employment, property ownership, and prior travel to destinations such as the UK, France, Switzerland, Dubai, and Singapore. Despite these credentials, their applications were rejected under Section 214(b) of the US Immigration and Nationality Act, which presumes all applicants have immigrant intent unless proven otherwise.

Interview Concerns

The family alleged that the visa officer asked no questions regarding their jobs, travel history, or ties to India. A confusion over translation for the mother reportedly led to a sudden shift in the officer’s demeanor before the visas were denied on the spot.

Public Reaction

The incident, shared on Reddit, quickly gained traction, sparking a heated debate over the arbitrary nature of US visa decisions. Many questioned why financially secure applicants with strong ties to India were rejected, while others pointed to the unpredictability of consular assessments.

Broader Context

Visa refusals under Section 214(b) are common, with decisions often based not only on documents but also on the officer’s perception of an applicant’s intent to return. Experts warn that even minor inconsistencies can trigger a rejection.

The case has reignited calls for greater transparency and accountability in the US visa process, especially for genuine travelers and families.