In order to enter the US for a temporary period of time, you will need to secure a US visa that allows you to request entrance into the United States. When applying for immigrant visas, however, many would be visitors do not realize that under US law, visa applicants are considered to be immigrants until they can prove differently. In fact, most non-immigrant visas are rejected because visitors cannot prove that they intend to return to their country of origin after their stay in the US. When applying for a US visa, it is important to keep in mind that it is up to you to prove this to immigration officials.
US visas are limited and getting a visa denied can be very stressful and can upset your plans for visiting the US. When you need to prove that you will return to your home country in order to secure a visa, however, you do have a number of challenges. The consular official who will review your application and determine whether you are eligible for a US visa will typically have very little time to devote to your case. As well, you will need to show that you have “”strong ties”” to your home country, which can seem challenging. Every person is different and can show ties to a home country in different ways.
The best option for qualifying for US visas is to provide as much evidence of ties to your home land as possible. When applying for your US visa and when speaking with consular officials about your visa, attempt to show as much evidence of your intent to return as possible. Evidence of bank accounts in your home country, a house or home in your country of origin, a permanent job and a family in your home country can all show that you have links back home and intend to return. If you have made any plans for the future in your home country – for example, you have signed up for classes next semester in school – this can also show US consular officials that you intend to return home after visiting the US. When in doubt, bring in more evidence of your times back home, rather than risk being denied for a visa because you have too little documentation to show.
If, despite your best efforts, you are denied for a US visa, there are still things you can do. You can reapply for a US visa or submit additional information and proof of your intention to return to your home country. You can also change your circumstances so that you qualify for a US visa. For example, if you secure a permanent home and job in your home country, you may have an easier time visiting the US on a US visa. You can also have a friend or family member provide a letter of support or a letter of invitation. This acts as added assurance to the consular official that your friend or family member will ensure you meet the terms of your visa.