Asked in Immigration Law

Q: Have you ever been refused a U.S Visa, or been refused admission to the United States or withdrawn your application for?

I have been refused F1 visa for my first interview in Ghana. I am going for another interview at Abidjan and filling another DS-160. My question to question should be?

Related Topics:
1 Lawyer Answer
James L. Arrasmith
PREMIUM
James L. Arrasmith pro label Lawyers, want to be a Justia Connect Pro too? Learn more ›
Answered
  • Immigration Law Lawyer
  • Sacramento, CA

A: I understand you were previously refused an F-1 student visa when you applied in Ghana and are now applying again in Abidjan. When filling out the DS-160 application again, it's important to answer that question honestly.

For the question "Have you ever been refused a U.S. Visa, or been refused admission to the United States, or withdrawn your application for admission at the port of entry?", you should select "Yes".

There will likely be a follow-up question asking for details about the prior visa refusal. In that section, concisely explain the circumstances of your prior F-1 visa application and refusal in Ghana. Mention the approximate date and U.S. consulate location.

It's okay that you were refused before - many applicants are refused but then approved on a subsequent application. The important things are:

1) Answering all questions on the DS-160 truthfully, including disclosing the prior refusal

2) Being prepared to explain what has changed since your last application that makes you a stronger candidate now

3) Demonstrating strong ties to your home country and that you intend to depart the U.S. after completing your studies

4) Having all required documents and evidence of financial support organized for your visa interview

Wishing you the best in the visa process this time.

Justia Ask a Lawyer is a forum for consumers to get answers to basic legal questions. Any information sent through Justia Ask a Lawyer is not secure and is done so on a non-confidential basis only.

The use of this website to ask questions or receive answers does not create an attorney–client relationship between you and Justia, or between you and any attorney who receives your information or responds to your questions, nor is it intended to create such a relationship. Additionally, no responses on this forum constitute legal advice, which must be tailored to the specific circumstances of each case. You should not act upon information provided in Justia Ask a Lawyer without seeking professional counsel from an attorney admitted or authorized to practice in your jurisdiction. Justia assumes no responsibility to any person who relies on information contained on or received through this site and disclaims all liability in respect to such information.

Justia cannot guarantee that the information on this website (including any legal information provided by an attorney through this service) is accurate, complete, or up-to-date. While we intend to make every attempt to keep the information on this site current, the owners of and contributors to this site make no claims, promises or guarantees about the accuracy, completeness or adequacy of the information contained in or linked to from this site.