We write business plans for U.S. and Canadian immigration, and assist entrepreneurs in growth and capital raising.

8 Surefire Ways to Get Your Visa Denied: What NOT to Do

8 Surefire Ways to Get Your Visa Denied: What NOT to Do

At Visa Business Plans, our primary goal is to assist our clients in achieving their dreams of successfully obtaining their visas approved. We've witnessed countless visa approvals over the years, and we genuinely want you to be among the successful applicants. However, we've also seen instances where the process took an unfortunate turn. In this blog, we've compiled a list of eight steps to take if you're looking to ensure your visa petition ends in denial.

(1) Go It Alone Without an Immigration Attorney

The quickest way to sabotage your visa application is to navigate the process without an experienced immigration attorney. Contrary to popular belief, attorneys do much more than fill out forms; they possess the expertise to interpret the law and apply it to your unique case.

When pursuing your dream of obtaining a visa, it's essential to remember that not all immigration attorneys are created equal. We encourage you to choose a legal expert who specializes in business visas, as they possess the knowledge and experience to navigate the unique complexities of L-1A, E-2, E-1, and EB-5 visas effectively.

(2) Craft Your Own Immigration Business Plan

While many professionals may be well-versed in general business planning, creating your own immigration business plan can be a recipe for disaster. The stark difference between a standard business plan and an immigration business plan cannot be underestimated. The latter demands a delicate balance between business realities and immigration expectations, tailored to meet the expectations of adjudication officers.

(3) Maintain Inconsistent Online Presence

Consistency matters, even in your online presence. Ensure that your website and social media align with your immigration intentions. Inconsistencies can raise red flags and potentially derail your visa petition.

(4) Employ Unauthorized Personnel

Hiring personnel not authorized to work in the U.S. is not only illegal but can also spell trouble for your visa application. Compliance with immigration and labor laws is essential.

(5) Run a Business Solely for Personal Employment

The U.S. grants investor visas, in part, to create jobs. Operating a company solely for personal employment can lead to visa denial. It's crucial to demonstrate a commitment to generating employment opportunities beyond your immediate family.

(6) Maintain Excessive Cash Reserves

For E-2 visas, having an abundance of cash on hand in your business account may seem beneficial, but it can give the impression that you're not fully committed to your U.S. venture. Striking the right balance is key.

(7) Rely on Unqualified Professionals

Engaging individuals or companies that aren't immigration attorneys to submit your visa petition can be extremely risky. Visa petitions should be submitted by a licensed attorney, as they are well-versed in the intricacies of the law.

(8) Operate a Business Before Visa Approval

A critical misstep is directly operating a business before your visa gets approved, which is not only ill-advised but also illegal. The sequence is clear: visa approval precedes direct business operation. Failing to adhere to this order can open a can of worms that not only will lead to visa denial but can have other legal consequences as well.

Our aim is to guide you toward a successful visa approval, and knowing what not to do is equally important. By avoiding these eight common pitfalls, you can significantly enhance your chances of obtaining that coveted U.S. visa.


Visa Business Plans is led by Marco Scanu, a certified coach from the University of Miami with a globally-based practice coaching Fortune 1000 company executives, entrepreneurs, as well as professionals in four different continents. Mr. Scanu advises clients on turnaround strategies and crisis management.

Mr. Scanu received a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration (Cum Laude) from the University of Florida and an MBA in Management from Bocconi University in Milan, Italy. Mr. Scanu was also a Visiting Scholar at Michigan State University under the prestigious H. Humphrey Fellowship (Fulbright program) with a focus on Entrepreneurship, Venture Capital, and high-growth enterprises.

At present, Mr. Scanu is the managing partner and CEO at Visa Business Plans, a Miami-based boutique consulting firm providing attorneys and investors with business planning services in the areas of U.S. and Canadian immigration, SBA loans, and others.


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