U.S. Department of State visa and passport guidelines

The U.S. Department of State provides specific guidelines regarding visa validity and the reapplication process following a denial. For B1/B2 visitor visas, denials under section 214(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act occur when an applicant fails to demonstrate sufficient ties to their home country. While there is no limit on the number of times a person can reapply, officials recommend presenting new information or a significant change in circumstances to avoid the same outcome.

In cases of denial under section 221(g), which typically involves incomplete documentation or the need for administrative processing, applicants may submit required information within one year of the denial for reevaluation.

Regarding expired travel documents, a U.S. visa remains valid even if the passport it is attached to has expired. To travel, individuals must present both the new, valid passport and the old passport containing the valid visa. It is critical that the visa is not removed from the original passport, as doing so will void it. Customs and Border Protection officers will review both documents upon arrival and record admission in the new passport.