Understanding When and Why Your U.S. Visa Could Be Cancelled

Visas to the United States can be canceled or revoked at any time and for various reasons. This article will explore the most common causes of visa cancellations and provide insights into navigating these situations.

What “Cancelled Without Prejudice” Means for a U.S. Visa

The U.S. government may cancel a visa due to minor or inconsequential paperwork mistakes. In such cases, the U.S. embassy or consulate stamps the ticket as “Cancelled Without Prejudice.” This means that the applicant must correct the error before obtaining visa approval. The “without prejudice” aspect indicates that the cancellation does not impact the person’s overall eligibility for the visa or other immigration benefits.

Visa Cancellations Resulting from Violating Visa Terms

Every U.S. visa has specific terms and conditions that the holder must follow. For instance, visa holders should not engage in activities beyond the visa’s scope, such as working while on a tourist visa, and they must leave the United States within the required time frame.

Visas can be canceled anytime if the holder fails to comply with their terms before, during, or after their stay in the United States.

In some cases, a visa may be canceled before a person begins their trip, as the U.S. government may find evidence of the visa holder’s intention to use the key for a different purpose than initially stated, such as planning to stay in the U.S. permanently rather than making a short visit. Alternatively, a permit may be revoked if a consular officer discovers the person misused their old visa while applying for a new one.

However, visa cancellation can also occur for administrative reasons, such as when a consular officer must cancel an old visa before issuing a new one.

U.S. Visa Cancellations Due to Overstaying in the United States

A common reason for visa revocation is when the holder overstays in the United States. Many visitors mistakenly believe they can stay until the visa’s expiration date. However, that date only marks the last day the visa holder can use the document for U.S. entry.

The visitor’s Form I-94 Arrival/Departure Record indicates the departure date. Overstaying even one day past that date without applying for an extension or status change will automatically cancel the visa.

Consequences of Visa Cancellation

If your U.S. visa is canceled, you must either leave the United States immediately or delay your travel plans until you successfully apply for a new passport in another country. However, depending on the reasons for the visa cancellation, you may be denied future entry visas.

Consulting an Immigration Lawyer

If your visa has been revoked or you believe you might be at risk of overstaying or visa cancellation, contact an experienced U.S. immigration attorney. A lawyer can help you assess your situation, possibly investigate why your visa was canceled, and ensure you have the best possible success when applying for a U.S. visa.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does “Cancelled Without Prejudice” mean on a U.S. visa?

“Cancelled Without Prejudice” means that the U.S. government canceled the visa due to a minor mistake in the paperwork. The applicant must correct the error before obtaining visa approval. The “without prejudice” aspect indicates that the cancellation does not impact the person’s overall eligibility for the visa or other immigration benefits.

When can the U.S. visa be canceled due to violating its terms?

A U.S. visa can be canceled anytime if the holder fails to comply with its terms, whether before, during, or after their stay in the United States. This includes engaging in activities beyond the visa’s scope, such as working on a tourist visa and not leaving the United States within the required time frame.

What happens if I overstay my U.S. visa?

If you overstay your U.S. visa by one day without applying for an extension or status change, your visa will automatically cancel. You must leave the United States immediately or delay your travel plans if you’re in another country until you successfully apply for a new U.S. visa. Overstaying may also result in the denial of future entry visas.

Should I consult an immigration lawyer if my U.S. visa has been canceled?

Yessupposeif your U.S. visa has been revoked, or you believe you might be at risk of overstaying or visa cancellation. In that case,n, it is advisable to contact an experienced U.S. immigration attorney. A lawyer can help you assess your situation, investigate why your visa was canceled if needed, and ensure the best possible success when applying for a U.S. visa.