Permanent Visa Ban Possible for False Information in Interview

The US Embassy in Dhaka has warned visa applicants against providing false or misleading information during visa interviews.
In a warning posted on social media on Saturday (October 3), the embassy said concealing information, providing misleading information or using fake documents could lead to visa refusal. In serious cases, applicants could face a permanent ban on obtaining a US visa or entering the country.
The embassy said consular officers are aware of applicants’ previous violations of immigration laws. It advised applicants to answer every question truthfully and accurately during visa interviews.
According to the US Department of State, applicants can be permanently ineligible for a visa under Section 212(a)(6)(C)(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act if they deliberately misrepresent a material fact or commit fraud to obtain a visa or other immigration benefit. Such ineligibility can apply to future visa applications as well. However, a waiver may be available in certain cases under US law.
Similar warnings appear on visa application forms. The Department of State’s instructions for the DS-160 form state that providing false or misleading information may result in permanent visa refusal or ineligibility to enter the United States. Applicants must also confirm the accuracy of the information provided during the interview.
However, not all visa refusals result in a permanent ban. The Department of State says a refusal under Section 214(b), for example, applies to that particular application. An applicant may apply again if there is a significant change in circumstances. By contrast, some grounds of ineligibility, including fraud or willful misrepresentation of a material fact, can be permanent.
The embassy also urged applicants to answer all questions truthfully during their visa interviews and avoid concealing information, providing misleading statements or submitting fake documents.
Under US visa rules, consular officers consider an applicant’s purpose of travel, financial circumstances, ties outside the United States and other relevant factors. Each application is reviewed individually.
The US Embassy in Dhaka has therefore stressed the importance of providing accurate information in both visa applications and interviews rather than concealing information or misrepresenting personal circumstances in an attempt to obtain a visa.