B1/B2 visa: A Delhi-based management consultant recently opened up about a unique experience at the New Delhi US Consulate while applying for a B1/B2 tourist visa. The applicant, who requested anonymity to protect his privacy, is a frequent traveller with an active F2 visa and a documented history of travel to the United States.
His interview took an interesting turn when the US consular officer noted the applicant’s birthplace. According to the consultant, the officer remarked, “Telugu? I don’t speak Telugu, I can speak Hindi.”
Unfazed by the potential language barrier, the applicant confidently responded, “It’s okay officer, I speak good English.” This candid exchange highlights how language proficiency plays a role in US visa interviews, even when regional languages are mentioned.
Detailed questioning over purpose and background
The officer asked about his travel purpose. “You should apply for a dependent visa man,” the officer remarked when the applicant said he planned to visit his wife in the US, who is on an F-1 visa. The applicant clarified, “I already have an F2 visa, but I do not intend to maintain my dependent status.”
Further questions covered his profession and work experience. “I’m a management consultant,” he said, adding, “Nearly 10 years.” The officer also asked about his last visit to the US. “I was in the US for 10 months between 2024 and 2025 during my wife’s study period. I was on a sabbatical,” he said. The officer seemed surprised, “Sabbatical? That’s a big word. What does that mean?” The applicant explained, “That means I was on long leave for 10 months.”
Reassuring the officer about intentions and career
When asked whether he worked during his US stay, he replied, “Do you mean, while I was in the US?” The officer clarified, “Yes (suspicious face).” He answered, “No officer, I know I am not allowed to.”
Regarding his wife’s plans, he said, “She plans to come back after she makes use of her OPT period.” The officer asked skeptically, “You sure?” He replied, “Yes officer, we spoke about it.” When asked why he did not consider a US job, he explained, “My specific area of management consulting is suited only to the Indian context, so I prefer not to.”
Visa approved after positive interaction
After the interview, the officer smiled, “You both sound like a dream couple man, we need people like you. And for that, I’m approving your visa.” The applicant thanked him, saying, “Thank you very much officer, you have a good day,” before leaving the consulate.