Valid B1/B2, Indian Still Denied US Business Trip

An Indian traveller faced a major shock when he was denied boarding from Hong Kong to the United States despite holding a valid B1/B2 visitor visa.

Airline Denies Boarding Despite Valid Visa

He shared online that his visa still has eight months of validity left. However, the airline refused boarding, saying there was a “declined to board” order from the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

Traveller Has Clean History

According to him, he has travelled to the US more than 10 times over the past decade using the same visa. He never overstayed, never violated any rules, and never faced legal issues.

Missed Business Meeting in NYC

Cathay Pacific staff gave him a letter from Homeland Security and told him to contact the US embassy. The timing was devastating as he had an important client meeting in New York City. His flight and hotel bookings went to waste.

Financial and Emotional Impact

The business deal he had been working on collapsed due to this sudden denial. In his post, he described feeling blank, helpless, and heartbroken by the incident.

Increasing “Continuous Vetting” Checks

US authorities have been conducting “continuous vetting” of visas even after issuance. Airlines must follow these orders, often leaving passengers stranded without prior warning or explanation.

Possible Technical Triggers

People speculate that even small technical errors or data mismatches can trigger a “do not board” order. Travellers say that cancelling a valid B1/B2 visa without notice is deeply unfair and stressful.