Visitor Visa - B2

Hi all! I just want to share my crazy experience to give HOPE to anyone out there.

I applied for the tourist visa in July. I was denied. The first interview went as followed:

VO: Hi. Passport please.
- Have you traveled outside of India?
ME: Yes, I've been to Sri Lanka.
VO: (Smiling) Wow! that's great. Why do you want to visit the US?
ME: Friends have invited me for the holidays, so I want to celebrate with them.
VO: What do you do?
ME: I just graduated from college and am helping my dad in his business.
VO: Who will pay for your trip?
ME: Myself.

Then I was denied.

I realized I should have said my father will sponsor my trip, but I wanted to be true to the answer I put on the application - because BELIEVE it or NOT - They follow the application thru the whole process. Anyway, I was pretty bummed. Everyone told me to wait until next year to try again.. until I could have a steady income and build better ties to my country.

BUT - I decided to try again.

Nothing about my circumstances changed, other than I went to Sri Lanka for a 2nd time. ;) I secretly booked a new appointment and didn't tell my family.

I went this morning fully thinking I was wasting my time. I reached the counter.. time for interview #2.

VO: Passport Please.
ME: gave passport and said good morning.
VO: Why do you want to go to US?
ME: To celebrate christmas with friends in the US.
VO: Your dad owns a clothing store? (he was reading my application form)
ME: Yes.
VO: How many employees does he have?
Me: 5
VO: How do you know the friends you will visit?
Me: My dad is also a pastor and works for an NGO. So many Americans come to volunteer here, and that is how I have made a few American friends.
VO: Looks in my passport... and asks if I have been outside of India?
ME: Yes I have been to Sri Lanka.

He typed in the computer for what felt like 5 minutes. I have been told they are in contact with people in the US this whole process during the typing...

Finally! The special words "You're visa is approved. Have a great holiday!"

I was so shocked. I jumped away without even asking when to pick up my passport. haha.

I just wanted to write this to encourage you guys... my circumstances didn't change. The ONLY thing I changed on my new form was that my dad will sponsor the trip and not myself. I do believe that made a difference. I had all papers to prove my dad can afford everything, property letters, invitations from friends - but of course they didn't ask to see it.

I am fresh out of college. Newly working. Not married. No kids. I have been to Sri Lanka - which didn't seem special to me but that is the only thing I had in my favor!! AND all this within 2 months of applying before... If it can happen for me.. it can happen for you! Just be confident. Dress nicely. Know the answers. Now I can plan for my first trip abroad!! yea!!