Why Was My K1 Visa Denied?
Why was my K1 Visa denied? What did I do wrong? How do I fix the problem? These might be some of the questions running through your head if you get that dreaded letter of denial. It is almost impossible to explain all the reasons why someone might be denied a K1 Visa. What I am going to talk about here are the most common ways a couple can be denied.
The first way is incomplete information in the application and failure to correct the missing documentation. It is hard to believe, but this is the most common way to be denied. What many couples do not realize, is they only have a short period of time to get the information requested back to the USCIS. Now for those that go about it on their own, they are directly notified and have a way to respond, but for those that use an attorney, that request may sit on the attorneys desk for months without someone opening the letter to address the USCIS concerns. When that happens the time to respond expires and the application is denied.
The second way is not being prepared for the interview. If you fiance/fiancee is not prepared for the interview, they can easily be denied the visa. Coming prepared for the interview dressed in business casual attire, the right paperwork and ready to talk about the relationship is crucial to getting a visa approval.
The third way which is hard to prove is mannerisms. Now you might not believe me about this one, but based on a number of stories I have heard, there is strong proof that this is one is true. Let me take you through the scenario. You will better understand this one if I tell it in story form.
You and your potential spouse have submitted all the right documentation, you answered all the questions. You have the application acceptance in hand and you have the embassy acceptance letter. Your fiance/fiancee has all the required documentation for the interview, but there is one thing missing. The interview coaching is missing.
There are some countries where the mannerisms and behaviors are rather course in the eyes of an American. In that country and environment it may be accepted as everyday life, but in a U.S Embassy where the officers are U.S Citizens (Americans), this kind of mannerisms and behavior can be a big strike against the interviewing fiance/fiancee. This is even more apparent if the officer is having a bad day. It is very important for your fiance/fiancee to understand that they must be gracious, polite and pleasant to the officer. This coaching should be part of an everyday exercise. That officer holds your future in her or his hands. They can literally make up any excuse to deny you. Don't give them anymore reason to deny your fiance/fiancee other than lack of proof of the relationship or lack of documentation. Something as simple as coaching your fiance/fiancee can do a lot for the success of the interview.
Those are the three most common denial situations that I hear about more often than others. Of course there are many more, but those are more specific to a certain situation then to a common mistake. If you follow just what I mentioned above you should have no issues going through the entire process. Stay focused on the process and reply immediately to the USCIS if more information is needed. Talk to your fiance/fiancee and ensure they know exactly what must be taken to the interview. Coach your fiance/fiance everyday on how to conduct their behavior in the interview.
