Hi everyone, I’m looking for some advice on a US B2 visa reapplication. I’m a textile designer based in Lagos and last year I was refused a visa under section 214(b) — the officer basically said I didn’t demonstrate strong enough ties to home.
Since then, I’ve been working hard to push my bold prints into new markets. To show that I am a bona fide traveler, I traveled to Dubai and Singapore for textile expos and returned without issue. My business has grown, and I have a major invitation to a fashion event in New York next month.
My main concerns are:
- Does this recent international travel actually help demonstrate bona fide intent to the US officers, or will they just see it as “tourism”?
- Are there any specific interview tips for a second-time applicant? I want to make sure I don’t freeze up if they bring up the past refusal.
- If anyone has overcome a similar refusal, I’d love to hear what specific changes made the difference for you.
I want to take my culture global, but this visa hurdle is tough. fashionable forward advice appreciated!