Q&A

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  • Q
    The U.S. visa denial rate is relatively high, averaging around 30%. What are the common reasons for visa denial?
    A
    1) Failing to adequately demonstrate that the purpose of your trip is not immigration-related during the visa interview. This can occur if you answer questions incorrectly, appear uncertain, or exhibit a lack of clarity.
    2) Errors in the submitted documents or evidence of document tampering.
    3) Missing crucial documents or incomplete information on the application.
    4) A history of illegal stays in the U.S. or potential issues related to U.S. security, economy, or health.
    5) For individuals who might require financial support from the U.S. government during their stay, there is a higher likelihood of denial.
    6) Health-related reasons, such as contagious diseases, mental health issues, or substance abuse, can also lead to denial.

  • Q
    What should you do if your U.S. visa is denied?
    A
    When a visa application is denied, you will receive a written notice of refusal. The color of the visa denial letter indicates the reason for the denial, and your response should vary accordingly:

    - Green letter: Indicates that required documents were not submitted. If you provide the missing documents and reapply, your chances of getting a visa are higher.
    - Yellow letter: Suggests that there is a perceived intent to immigrate to the U.S. In this case, reapplying for a visa is unlikely to succeed. However, the denial is not permanent, and you may reapply within 12 months from the date of the denial.-
    - Immigration and Nationality Act (INA): Allows applicants denied due to specific ineligibilities to apply for a waiver of those ineligibilities.

  • Q
    What are the most common questions in a U.S. visa interview?
    A
    During an embassy interview, the most frequently discussed questions typically focus on the following three areas:

    1) Document and Eligibility Requirements: Ensuring you have all necessary documents and meet the qualifications for the visa. It is crucial to thoroughly prepare and verify your documents and eligibility.
    2) Social and Economic Ties in Korea: Demonstrating your social and, particularly, economic ties to Korea is important. Specifically, showing proof of financial support indicates your ability to cover expenses during your stay.
    3) Intention to Return: The visa is issued with the assumption that you will return to Korea. The interview will assess whether your stated purpose aligns with your actual intentions, particularly regarding long-term stay in the U.S.

  • Q
    Common Mistakes Koreans Make at U.S. Airport Immigration
    A
    U.S. immigration checks are typically brief and focus on key questions, so most people are approved without issue. However, minor mistakes can sometimes lead to entry denial. Here are some common pitfalls:

    1) Prohibited Items: Ensure that you are not carrying any prohibited items in your luggage.
    2) Cash Declaration: If you are carrying $10,000 or more in cash, you must declare it to Customs and Border Protection (CBP).
    3) ESTA Restrictions: ESTA allows for a stay of up to 90 days for tourism without a visa. However, working on ESTA is illegal and can result in a 5-year ban from entering the U.S.
    4) Secondary Inspection: If the officer suspects further investigation is needed, you may be subject to a Secondary Inspection. Remain calm, cooperate fully, and you should be approved if there are no significant issues.
    5) One-Way Ticket: If you have only a one-way ticket and cannot provide a satisfactory reason for not having a return ticket, you may be denied entry.
    6) Travel to Terrorist-Sensitive Countries: If you have visited countries designated as state sponsors of terrorism (Iraq, Syria, Iran, Sudan, Libya, Somalia, Yemen) for business, you cannot use ESTA. Instead, you must apply for a B1/B2 visa to enter the U.S.
  • Q
    What are the differences between the F-1 and J-1 visas?
    A

    The F-1 visa is a student visa issued to international students studying in the U.S. It is required for studying at a U.S. school for more than three months. The visa is typically valid for up to five years, assuming the student continues their studies, and is issued based on the school’s Form I-20. To obtain an F-1 visa, you must undergo an interview in Korea, where you need to demonstrate financial stability, a clear plan to return to Korea, and a genuine intent to pursue your studies.


    In contrast, the J-1 visa is a cultural exchange visa. It is used for programs like exchange student programs or visiting scholar positions. For exchange studies under the J-1 visa, you can attend U.S. public or private schools for up to one year. However, the J-1 visa is not suitable for long-term studies. It is more appropriate for short-term educational experiences before applying for a longer-term F-1 visa. During a J-1 visa stay, children can attend U.S. public schools. You need to be interviewed at the U.S. Embassy in Korea and receive a Form DS-2019 for admission approval.


    In summary, the F-1 visa is intended for long-term academic pursuits, while the J-1 visa provides opportunities for cultural exchange and shorter-term educational experiences.