When you interview for a visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate, a consular officer decides if they will accept or deny your application. If they deny your application, you have the right to ask:

• Why your visa application was denied.
• If you are eligible for a waiver on the grounds of inadmissibility (if the waiver is approved, you may be issued a visa)

1. Review the Denial Reason

The U.S. consulate or embassy typically provides a written explanation for the rejection, indicating the section of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) under which you were found ineligible. Common reasons include incomplete documentation, insufficient financial proof, prior immigration violations, or security-related concerns.

2. Understand if Ineligibility is Temporary or Permanent

Some refusals are temporary, requiring additional information or documentation, while others are permanent and require waivers to overcome. If you were denied due to a lack of documentation or insufficient information (commonly a “221(g)” refusal), you may reapply or submit missing documents without starting the application over.

3. Consider a Waiver of Ineligibility

If you are permanently ineligible under certain grounds, you may apply for a waiver. Waivers are available for some cases, like minor criminal violations, certain health-related issues, or overstays. The waiver process can be complex and might require the assistance of an immigration lawyer.

4. Consult a Qualified Immigration Attorney

For complex cases, an immigration attorney can offer guidance on potential waivers, eligibility, and future visa applications.

5. Reapply if Possible

If your denial was based on factors that you can address, such as lack of documentation or financial proof, you may reapply. Note that you will need to pay the application fee again.

6. Appeal or Seek Administrative Review

For specific visas, such as non-immigrant worker visas, a rejection can sometimes be appealed. However, for most visa types, there’s no formal appeal process; instead, you may need to reapply or provide additional information as requested.