Non-Immigrant Visas

Frequently Asked Questions

Who will make the decision on my application, and on what basis?

An American consular officer makes the decision. The consul must be satisfied that you have strong ties to your home country and intend only a temporary visit to the USA. You must have enough money to pay for your visit. In addition, you may be ineligible if you have a criminal record or have violated American laws in the past, or been connected with organizations which are dangerous to the security of the United States.

What can I do to make my application as strong as possible?

Fill out the form completely and carefully, and be truthful. It is up to you to present proof that you will come back, so think about your ties here. Do you have a stable job? Do you have rights to an apartment or own a house or land? Do you have a car, a business, farm machinery or other goods? Do you have a spouse or small children at home to whom you must return? It is to your advantage to document as clearly as possible your ties here.

What happens if I am refused the visa?

If the Consul believes you have not proved your eligibility, you will be given a printed notice stating the reason for the refusal. You may apply again in the future if your situation changes and you are better able to establish your eligibility for the visa.

Why are visas refused?

A visa may be refused for a variety of reasons depending on the individual circumstances.  However, the following information regarding requirements for non-immigrant visas that may help explain why we must refuse some requests for visas.

Consular officers who make decisions regarding visa issuance must follow the U. S. Immigration and Nationality Act.  According to section 214b of that law, the consular officer is required to presume that applicants for non-immigrant visas are intending to immigrate permanently, unless the applicants prove they have overseas ties that will compel them to leave the United States at the end of a temporary stay. The law places this burden of proof on the applicant.

Visa applicants who do not have consistent employment, reliable and substantial income, strong family/social ties, documented proof of legal employment and employment history, or who are not engaged in a program of academic study may find it difficult to meet the legal criteria for visa issuance. 

A significant number of Bosnians do not report their employment or income to the government.  In such cases, they usually are unable to obtain a U. S. visa because they lack acceptable proof of employment and income.  Evasion of taxes is a crime in Bosnia and such activity reflects negatively on the credibility of visa applicants who engage in it.

Can I get the $131 fee back if I don't get the visa?

The $131 is a fee for processing the application. It is not refundable.

If my visa is valid for one year does that mean I can stay in the US for a year?

No. The visa is permission to travel to the US port of entry and apply for admission. The U.S. immigration officer at the airport when you arrive decides whether to admit you and how long you may stay. Normally, the maximum time allowed is six months.

Can I accept employment or enroll in school while visiting the USA?

A tourist visa does not permit you to work or attend school. If you intend to enroll in school or accept employment you must apply for the appropriate type of visa prior to your trip to the US.

How far in advance should I apply for a visa?

It is advised to apply once you have made travel plans. Average wait times can be found at travel.state.gov/.

If I am approved for a visa, when can I pick it up?

Approved visas are ready to be picked up on the next business day after 4:00 pm. You should take this into consideration when planning your travel.