Mistakes That Caused My US Visa Refusal
Mistakes That Caused My US Visa Refusal – And How to Avoid Them
Last month, my B1/B2 visa interview at US Embassy Abuja ended with “Refused under 214(b)”. I cried all the way home.
But after talking to a visa consultant, I realized: I made 3 avoidable mistakes.
❌ Mistake #1: Weak Ties to Nigeria
I said I work as “freelancer” with no office address. Consular officer thought: “He go run abroad.”
I said I work as “freelancer” with no office address. Consular officer thought: “He go run abroad.”
Mistake #2: Inconsistent Answers
When asked: “Who is paying for your trip?”
I said: “My uncle.”
But in DS-160 form, I wrote: “Self-funded.”
✅ Fix: Your interview answers MUST match your DS-160 100%.
Mistake #3: No Proof of Income
- I brought only one bank statement (₦12,000 balance)
- No employment letter
- No business registration
✅ What to bring: - 6 months bank statements (minimum ₦200k total) - Employment letter with salary - CAC certificate (if self-employed) - Property documents (if any)
💡 Pro Tip: Practice with mock interview. Ask friend to play consular officer. Common questions:
- “Why USA and not UK/Canada?”
- “What will you do there?”
- “When will you return?”
How to Reapply Successfully
- Wait at least 6 months
- Strengthen ties: get full-time job, buy property, or register business
- Save more money (show consistent inflow)
- Write strong cover letter explaining previous refusal
What NOT to Do
- Don’t lie about purpose (“tourism” when you plan to work)
- Don’t bring fake documents
- Don’t argue with officer
Visa refusal no mean say you no go ever get am. Learn, improve, and try again.
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