Double Blow for Student: F1 Denied, B1/B2 Revoked

An Indian student has shared a frustrating experience after facing a double setback from the US consulate. He not only had his F-1 student visa rejected but also saw his valid B1/B2 tourist visa cancelled during the same process.

Rejection and Cancellation Shock

The student attended an F-1 interview on October 15 and received a 221(g) slip for administrative processing. When his passport was returned, he was shocked to find a 214(b) refusal notice a common rejection citing “immigrant intent.” Adding to the blow, his tourist visa was also stamped “cancelled without prejudice.”

Link to a Family Member in the US

The student later suspected that the issue was connected to his sister, a US green card holder living in the same city as the university he applied to. During the interview, the consular officer asked about her visa status, which may have raised doubts about his intent to return to India after studies.

Expert Insight on Visa Rules

Visa experts explained that both F-1 and B1/B2 visas require proof of non-immigrant intent. If one is rejected on immigration grounds, the other is usually cancelled as well. Applicants with close relatives permanently living in the US are often viewed with extra scrutiny.

Student’s Frustration

The student expressed disappointment with US visa policies, saying that his future travel prospects are now damaged because of his sister’s residency status. He said the experience felt unfair, as personal ties seemed to overshadow his genuine academic intentions.