A Reddit user shared a detailed account of their US B1/B2 visa rejection at the Chennai consulate ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The applicant, a 31-year-old self-employed video marketing specialist with a GST-registered business, had planned to travel with his 29-year-old wife from July 5 to July 15 next year to watch the tournament in Seattle and Los Angeles.
Interview Details Shared on Reddit
According to the post, the consular officer (VO), described as a 35-40-year-old female, asked only a few questions during the interview. “Good morning, passports please,” the VO began, followed by questions about the purpose of travel. The applicant replied: “We are going to watch the FIFA WORLD CUP next year in Seattle and Los Angeles. I had been to the last World cup in Qatar and I want to experience it again this time with my wife.”
The VO seemed uninterested in FIFA knowledge and asked standard questions regarding duration of stay, occupation, and funding. The applicant explained his business and financial preparedness, including a bank balance of around 8 lakhs and mutual funds worth 30 lakhs. His wife explained her current status as a classical dance student.
Visa Denial and Applicant’s Reflections
After fingerprinting, the couple received the dreaded message: “Unfortunately, your visa is not approved this time” (214(b) slip). The Reddit poster reflected that self-employment and lack of clear explanation of home ties may have affected the decision. He noted: “I could have said, I can’t take more than 10 days due to work and family commitments/taking care of parents. Also, I should have kept wife’s status as student instead of ‘not employed.’”
The applicant also shared thoughts on reapplying, suggesting that improving travel history with trips to Japan or Schengen countries or presenting a more detailed explanation of ties to India might help. The Reddit post gained attention for its candid breakdown of what happened during the interview and insights into potential pitfalls for self-employed applicants.
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