Highlights:
- Consular officer’s comment on language sparked an unexpected exchange
- Applicant clarified intent despite holding an active F-2 visa
- Detailed questions focused on work history and prior U.S. stay
- Consultant emphasized compliance and India-based career plans
- Interview concluded with a smile—and visa approval
A Delhi-based management consultant has shared a rare, candid account of his recent B1/B2 tourist visa interview at the U.S. Consulate in New Delhi, offering a glimpse into how language, intent, and transparency can shape visa outcomes. The applicant requested anonymity, citing privacy concerns, but confirmed he is a frequent international traveler with a documented history of lawful visits to the United States.
The interview took an unexpected turn early on when the consular officer noted the applicant’s birthplace and remarked, “Telugu? I don’t speak Telugu, I can speak Hindi.” Rather than being thrown off by the comment, the consultant responded calmly and confidently: “It’s okay, officer, I speak good English.” The brief exchange set a conversational tone that continued throughout the interview, underscoring how communication and confidence can influence the process.
The officer then moved to the purpose of travel. When the applicant said he intended to visit his wife in the United States—where she is currently studying on an F-1 student visa, the officer suggested, “You should apply for a dependent visa, man.” The applicant clarified that he already holds an active F-2 dependent visa but was applying for a B1/B2 because he did not wish to maintain dependent status for this trip.
What followed was a series of detailed questions aimed at understanding the applicant’s professional background and travel history. He identified himself as a management consultant with nearly a decade of experience. The officer asked about his most recent stay in the United States, prompting the applicant to explain that he had spent 10 months there between 2024 and 2025 while his wife was studying. He noted that the extended stay was possible because he was on a sabbatical from work.
The term itself drew curiosity. “Sabbatical? That’s a big word,” the officer reportedly said, asking for clarification. The applicant explained simply that it meant he was on long-term leave from his job. The officer then asked directly whether he had worked during that time in the United States. After confirming the question, the applicant responded clearly: “No, officer. I know I am not allowed to.”
Questions also turned to future plans. The applicant said his wife intended to return to India after completing her Optional Practical Training (OPT). When the officer pressed, “You sure?”, he reiterated that the decision had been discussed and agreed upon. Asked why he did not consider employment in the United States, the consultant explained that his area of management consulting is tailored to the Indian market and not easily transferable to a US context.
By the end of the interview, the tone had visibly softened. According to the applicant, the officer smiled and said, “You both sound like a dream couple, man. We need people like you. And for that, I’m approving your visa.”
The applicant thanked the officer and exited the consulate with his visa approved, a result he attributes to honesty, clarity of intent, and a respectful, composed demeanor. His experience highlights how straightforward communication and adherence to visa rules can positively influence outcomes, even during closely scrutinized interviews.
