Linkedin-in Youtube
Top 10 Mistakes to Avoid in Your U.S. Visa Application Process
By Cecilia HungIn U.S visaPosted
US visa application

Applying for a U.S. visa application can be a smooth experience — but only when employers and applicants avoid the most common mistakes that lead to delays, RFEs, or even denials. Below are the top errors companies must watch out for when preparing a petition.

1. Incomplete or Inaccurate Forms (Including DS-160 Errors)

Simple mistakes such as incorrect spellings, missing fields, or inconsistencies between forms (including the DS-160, I-129, I-129S, resumes, employment letters, etc.) are among the most frequent causes of delays.
Because U.S. authorities cross-check information across multiple databases, absolute accuracy is essential for any US visa application.

2. Weak or Vague Job Descriptions

A petition must clearly explain the role, its technical requirements, and why the candidate is qualified. Generic job descriptions almost always trigger RFEs.

3. Insufficient Evidence of Eligibility

All claims must be supported by strong documentation: degrees, proof of experience, contracts, payroll records, corporate structure charts, itineraries, and more.

Missing or weak evidence is one of the main reasons USCIS challenges a case.

4. Ignoring Visa-Specific Requirements

Every U.S. visa category—L-1A, L-1B, E-2, H-1B, TN, etc.—has its own standards. Treating all petitions the same leads to avoidable mistakes and unnecessary RFEs.


5. Inconsistencies Between Employer and Employee Information

Discrepancies between employment letters, resumes, internal HR information, public profiles, or past visa history raise concerns about the case’s authenticity.
US authorities often review publicly available information during adjudication.


6. Poor Preparation for the Consular Interview and Visa Appointment

The consular interview (the US visa appointment) is decisive for many applicants.
If the applicant cannot clearly explain their job duties, employer, travel purpose, or project details, they risk refusal or Administrative Processing (221g).

Clear and confident communication is key.


7. Not Verifying Passport Validity

Passport validity rules vary. Some nationalities fall under the “six-month club,” while others require a passport valid for six months beyond the intended stay.
Failing to check this may cause travel disruptions.


8. Overlooking U.S. Employer Compliance

Depending on the visa, the U.S. entity must provide corporate documents such as financial statements, payroll records, evidence of business activity, proof of investment (E-2), or proof of U.S.–foreign relationship (L-1).
Missing or inconsistent documentation frequently causes delays.


9. Rushing the Process

Submitting a petition too close to a project deadline increases the risk of mistakes.
Starting early gives time to gather evidence, solve unexpected issues, and manage potential consular delays—especially during peak seasons.


10. Not Seeking Professional Guidance

U.S. immigration is complex and constantly changing.
Companies often lose time and resources by relying on incomplete or outdated information. Working with specialized advisors helps ensure compliance with USCIS and Department of State standards.

How Corporate Visa Solutions Can Help

At Corporate Visa Solutions, we assist companies throughout the US visa application process—from preparing accurate forms and strong supporting evidence to guiding applicants through their visa appointment and interview preparation.
Our mission is to help employers avoid common mistakes and secure approvals quickly and efficiently.

Looking to explore more strategic US visa options? Take a look at these related insights