A couple from Delhi recently shared their B1/B2 visa interview experience on Reddit, revealing how their application was denied under Section 214(b) despite a carefully planned trip. The Reddit post detailed their October 9, 2025, interview at the US Embassy in Delhi, describing both the process and the disappointment of being refused a visa.
Planned Trip and Smooth Biometric Process
The couple had planned a 12-day US itinerary covering five cities: three days in New York, one day in Washington D.C., three days in Las Vegas, three days in San Francisco, and two days in Los Angeles. According to the post, “The biometric process was smooth, and even the interview process itself was fairly organized. From entry to exit, the entire experience took around 45 minutes.”
The applicant recounted the interview questions: “1. Why do you want to travel to the U.S.? I explained that our purpose was purely tourism. This was our first international trip, and I wanted to gift my wife a special vacation that she could cherish forever. I also mentioned that we had a detailed itinerary and that my leaves were already approved by my employer. 2. How much do you make? I shared my income details, mentioned that I have sufficient funds and good investments in mutual funds and PPF, and that this trip wouldn’t be a financial burden. 3. Who is sponsoring your trip? I informed him that I was sponsoring the entire trip for both of us. 4. Do you have any prior international travel history? I honestly replied that this would be our first international trip.”
Visa Denial and Limited Opportunity to Explain
Despite answering all questions truthfully, the officer handed over a leaflet stating the visa was denied under Section 214(b). The Reddit post noted, “The entire conversation lasted barely one and a half minutes, and I wasn’t given any opportunity to explain more about our background or ties to India.”
The couple highlighted strong family and professional ties in India, explaining, “We have our entire family here — both my parents and my wife’s parents live in India. We were planning to leave our three-year-old son with his grandparents while we travelled. My brother, his wife, and their children also live nearby, and our professional, financial, and emotional roots are deeply anchored here.”
While the experience was disheartening, the applicant emphasized respect for the visa process: “I respect the process and the responsibilities of the visa officers. But this experience made me realize how limited the time and scope are for them to assess someone’s intent — sometimes genuine applicants end up being the ones affected.”
Despite the setback, the couple remains optimistic about future travel. “Nevertheless, this hasn’t shaken our travel spirit. We’ll continue exploring, making memories, and cherishing every journey that comes our way.”