Frequently Asked Questions
This guide answers some of the most frequently asked questions about U.S. non-immigrant visas. For additional information please visit the Department of State's web site at www.travel.state.gov, or call the Visa Information Call Center at 4008-872-333 or (021) 3881-4611 if calling from within China or (86-21) 3881-4611 if calling from overseas. Please note that charges for domestic or international long-distance calls are solely the responsibility of the caller.
What is a visa?
Where should I apply?
How long before my planned travel date should I apply for a visa?
How can I request an emergency interview appointment?
Who can cancel my U.S. visa?
Can a third-country national apply in China?
What if I have problems with my PIN number?
Can my wife and I apply for visas together on the same day if I was refused before while she was not?
Duration of Stay: How long can I stay in the United States?
What does the word “Entries” and the letter “M” mean on the visa?
What procedures need I go through upon arrival at the U.S. port of entry?
I have a current visa in an expired passport and a new passport, can I travel to U.S.?
How do you decide whether or not to issue a visa?
Why does the U.S. have such strict visa laws?
What are strong ties?
Why do all the refused applicants get the same letter of explanation as to why they were refused?
Why are the visa interviews so short?
During the interview, I told the officer I would return to China after a short stay in the US. Why didn't the officer believe me?
Is a refusal under Section 214(b) permanent?
How long do refused applicants have to wait before reapplying?
I have a letter (or fax) I would like the officer to read to better understand my situation and my strong ties to China. Can I send it to you so you can read it in advance of my interview?
I brought all my documents, but my application was refused anyway. What else should I bring?
What can I do if I have a complaint about the manner in which my case has been handled?
I have been accepted by a U.S. school and issued an I-20. Isn't that enough for a student visa issuance?
Must applicants take tests such as the TOEFL, SAT, GRE, and GMAT, in order to obtain a student visa?
I am the only son in my family and I need to return to care for my parents. Isn’t that sufficient ties to compel me to return to China?
What if I have more questions on U.S. student visas?
I have letters of guarantee that I will return to China. Why isn't that considered to be enough proof that I actually will return?
If I am refused a visa, would it help to have a high ranking official or an American contact the embassy?
Can an American friend speak on my behalf to an embassy employee about my case or be present during my interview?
Should I use a travel agent or other advisor to help me apply?
Is it better to say that I am going for business in staed of tourim or to see relatives?
Shouldn't I conceal the fact that I have applied to immigrate, and that I have a prior visa refusal?
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
