This relates to the US visa refusal rate during FY 2018 for all types of nonimmigrant applications such as B1/B2, H1B, F1, J1, C1, K1 etc. And also provides the details of the adjusted US visa rejection rate by country 2018. Accordingly, the post covers the following topics:
- Overview of US immigrant and nonimmigrant visa applications
- US visa rejection rate for all types of NIVs in 2018
- What is the US tourist visa rejection rate by country 2018?
- FAQs relating to US Visa Refusal Rate
Overview of US immigrant and nonimmigrant visa applications
Perhaps, the foreign service posts (i.e. US embassies and consulates) mainly issue nonimmigrant visas, including the border crossing cards. Accordingly, the nonimmigrant visas nearly comprise 95% of the visas issued by US embassies and consulates.
| Immigrant and NIV issued from outside the US | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immigrant visa issued at Foreign Service Posts | 617,752 | 559,536 | 533,557 |
| NIV issued (incl. B1/B2/Border Crossing Cards) | 10,381,491 | 9,681,913 | 9,028,026 |
| B1/B2/Border Crossing Cards | [1,106,723] | [1,073,915] | [1,032,467] |
| Total immigrant and NIV issued | 10,999,243 | 10,241,449 | 9,561,583 |
US nonimmigrant visa (NIV) 2016-18
During FY 2018, a total of 12.76m decisions made at the foreign service posts relating to the US nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applications. And 9.02m NIV issued and 3.73m applications refused. Accordingly, the US visa rejection rate for 2018 was 29.25% for all types of nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applications.
Perhaps, the nonimmigrant US visa rejection rate for 2018 (29.25%) was higher than that for 2016 (26.34%) and 2017 (26.80%). Moreover, the total number of decisions during a fiscal year (FY) is also showing a declining trend during the 2016-18 period. Apparently, the number of decision declined from 14.09m in 2016 to 12.76m in 2018.
US visa rejection rate for NIV 2016-18
| US Nonimmigrant Visa (NIV) Applications | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Issued | 10,381,491 | 9,681,913 | 9,028,026 |
| Refused | 3,711,553 | 3,545,289 | 3,732,314 |
| Total decisions made during the FY (Oct 1 – Sept 30) | 14,093,044 | 13,227,202 | 12,760,340 |
| Waived/Overcome | 747,138 | 762,118 | 794,963 |
| US Non Immigration Visa (NIV) Refusal Rate 2016-18 | 26.34% | 26.80% | 29.25% |
US immigrant visa issuance at the foreign service posts 2016-18
Apparently, the number of US immigrant visas issued at US embassies and consulates declined from 617,752 in 2016 to 533,557 in 2018. Perhaps, this is mainly due to a substantial drop in immediate relatives category. And also due to a slight decrease in the family-sponsored preference category. However, the number of employment-based and diversity immigrant visa categories are showing an upward trend during the period.
| US Immigrant Visa Issued at Foreign Service Posts | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Immediate Relatives – Immigrant | 315,352 | 254,430 | 236,526 |
| Family-Sponsored Preference | 215,498 | 212,155 | 211,641 |
| Diversity Immigrants | 45,664 | 49,067 | 48,578 |
| Employment-Based Preference | 25,056 | 23,814 | 27,345 |
| Special Immigrants | 16,176 | 20,034 | 9,375 |
| Vietnam Amerasian Immigrants | 6 | 36 | 92 |
| Armed Forces Special Immigrants | 0 | 0 | 0 |
| Total US Immigrant Visa Issued | 617,752 | 559,536 | 533,557 |
US visa rejection rate for all types of NIVs in 2018
Perhaps, the US B1/2 visa is the most popular type of US nonimmigrant visa (NIV). Accordingly, during 2018, the total decisions (9.98m) relating to US type-B visa for business and tourism, inclusive of B1/B2 combination border crossing cards for Mexican citizens, approx accounts for 78% of all the NIV decisions (12.76m). Therefore, it is pertinent to mention that when people are talking about the US visa, they are actually referring to the US B1/B2 visa.
US visa refusal rate 2018 for most popular NIV types
| NIV Type | Refusal Rate | Decisions | No. of Refusals |
|---|---|---|---|
| B-type visa and border crossing cards | 31.82% | 9,990,522 | 3,178,644 |
| H-type temporary work visa | 15.50% | 701,963 | 108,772 |
| F-type student visa | 35.09% | 600,164 | 210,585 |
| J-type exchange visitor visa | 16.18% | 455,983 | 73,764 |
| C and D-type transit visa | 9.91% | 345,525 | 34,227 |
| L-type intracompany transferee visa | 15.47% | 181,116 | 28,017 |
| A-type visa for diplomats | 14.73% | 133,488 | 19,668 |
| K-type fiance(e) visa | 41.75% | 49,204 | 20,542 |
| Other nonimmigrant visas (NIV) | 19.21% | 302,375 | 58,095 |
| US visa refusal rate 2018 | 29.25% | 12,760,340 | 3,732,314 |
US B1/B2 business and tourist visa rejection rate 2016-18
All in all, during the preceding three years, a total of 8.07m, 7.43m and 6.81m USA B1/B2 visas issued. And also 3.18m, 3.01m and 3.17m applications refused. Apparently, during the period there has been a marked decrease (approx 1.26m ) in the of B1/B2 visa issuance. However, the total number of refused applications have remained the same. Therefore, the B1/B2 USA visitor visa refusal rate has increased from 28.29% (in 2016) to 31.82% (in 2018).
US B-Type visa refusal rate
| US B-Type Visa | 2016 | 2017 | FY 2018 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decisions | 11,256,892 | 10,451,589 | 9,990,522 |
| Issued | 8,072,189 | 7,432,515 | 6,811,878 |
| Refused | 3,184,703 | 3,019,074 | 3,178,644 |
| Waived/Overcome | 502,154 | 483,261 | 490,329 |
| US B-Type Visa Rejection Rate 2016-18 | 28.29% | 28.89% | 31.82% |
US B1 business visa refusal rate during 2016-18
Evidently, the US B1 business visitor visa rejection rate has slightly increased from 27.15% (2016) to 27.92% (2018).
| US B1 visa | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decisions | 55,053 | 54,964 | 53,700 |
| Issued | 40,105 | 39,712 | 38,705 |
| Refused | 14,948 | 15,252 | 14,995 |
| Waived/Overcome | 7,645 | 7,508 | 6,669 |
| US B1 business visa refusal rate | 27.15% | 27.75% | 27.92% |
US B2 tourist visa refusal rate during 2016-18
Evidently, the US B2 tourist visa rejection rate has also considerably decreased from 59.1% (FY 2016) to 29.54% (FY 2018).
| US B2 visa | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decisions | 106,510 | 99,995 | 46,021 |
| Issued | 43,564 | 42,037 | 32,428 |
| Refused | 62,946 | 57,958 | 13,593 |
| Waived/Overcome | 4,501 | 4,051 | 3,079 |
| US B2 tourist visa refusal rate | 59.1% | 57.96% | 29.54% |
US B1/B2 combination visa refusal rate during 2016-18
Evidently, the US B1/B2 combination visa rejection rate has increased from 28.12% (in 2016) to 32.39% (in 2018).
| US B1/B2 combination visa | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decisions | 9,573,530 | 8,845,755 | 8,443,492 |
| Issued | 6,881,797 | 6,276,851 | 5,708,278 |
| Refused | 2,691,733 | 2,568,904 | 2,735,214 |
| Waived/Overcome | 452,238 | 441,831 | 446,345 |
| US B1/B2 combination visa refusal rate | 28.12% | 29.04% | 32.39% |
US B1/B2/BCC combination cards rejection rate 2016-18
Evidently, the US B1/B2/BCC combination cards rejection rate has increased from 26.58% (in FY 2017) to 29.56% (in FY 2018).
| B1/B2/BCC Combination Card | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decisions | 1,468,041 | 1,403,501 | 1,367,021 |
| Issued | 1,060,390 | 1,030,460 | 962,888 |
| Refused | 407,651 | 373,041 | 404,133 |
| Waived/Overcome | 36,788 | 28,965 | 31,891 |
| US B1/B2/BCC card refusal rate | 27.77% | 26.58% | 29.56% |
B1/B2/BCV combination cards (Lincoln Foil)
Evidently, the US B1/B2/BCV cards (Lincoln Foil) rejection rate has increased from 8.27% (in FY 2016) to 13.34% (in FY 2018).
| B1/B2/BCV (Lincoln Foil) | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Decisions | 53,758 | 47,374 | 80,288 |
| Issued | 46,333 | 43,455 | 69,579 |
| Refused | 7,425 | 3,919 | 10,709 |
| Waived/Overcome | 982 | 906 | 2,345 |
| USA B1/B2/BCV refusal rate | 13.81% | 8.27% | 13.34% |
US visa rejection rate for the H-type work visa 2018
Apparently, during 2018, a total of 701,963 applications decided for US nonimmigrant type-H work and training visa. Accordingly, a total of 593,191 US type-H work visa issued and 108,772 applications refused. Therefore, the US H-type visa rejection rate for nonimmigrant work visa during 2018 was 15.50%. Moreover, during the year, 83,435 decisions waived/overcome. Therefore, the adjusted US visa refusal rate for work visa could be lower than 15.50%. However, as explained earlier, some of the waived/overcome decisions (if not all!) may relate to the preceding years.
US H-Type visa rejection rate 2018
| Type-H | Sub-Class | Refusal Rate | Decisions | Waived |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| H1B | Temporary worker of distinguished merit and ability other than as a registered nurse | 22.24% | 231,033 | 49,418 |
| H1B1 | Free Trade Agreement Professional | 12.55% | 1,713 | 175 |
| H1C | Shortage Area Nurse | 100.00% | 1 | 1 |
| H2A | Temporary worker performing agricultural services | 10.59% | 219,671 | 8,119 |
| H2B | Temporary worker performing other services | 10.87% | 93,992 | 3,533 |
| H3 | Trainee | 24.76% | 1,377 | 252 |
| H4 | Spouse or child of H1B/B1/C, H2A/B, or H3 | 15.15% | 154,176 | 21,937 |
| Total | US Type-H visa refusal rate 2018 | 15.50% | 701,963 | 83,435 |
US F-1 student visa rejection rate in 2018
Apparently, during 2018, a total of 600,164 applications for US student visa and their spouse and children decided. Accordingly, a total of 389,579 US student visas issued and 210,585 applications refused. Therefore, the USA visa refusal rate for F-1 students during 2018 was 35.09%. Moreover, during the year, 73,680 US student visa refusal decisions waived/overcome. Therefore, the adjusted US student visa refusal rate could be lower than 35.09%. However, as explained earlier, some of the waived/overcome decisions (if not all!) may relate to a previous year.
US F-Type student visa rejection rate 2018
| Type-F | Sub-Class | Refusal Rate | Decisions | Waived |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| F1 | Student (academic or language training program) | 34.97% | 558,116 | 67,850 |
| F2 | Spouse or child of student | 36.62% | 42,048 | 5,830 |
| F3 | Border commuter academic or language student | N/A | 0 | 0 |
| Total | US Type-F visa refusal rate 2018 | 35.09% | 600,164 | 73,680 |
US visa rejection rate for J-1 exchange visitors 2018
Perhaps, research scholars and professors around the world wish to visit the USA for acquiring expert learning and training. Therefore, in order to enable such individuals, the US offers the J-1 exchange visitor visa for participating in programs that promote cultural exchange, especially to obtain medical or business training in the USA.
Apparently, during 2018, a total of 455,983 applications for the exchange visitors and their spouse and children decided. Accordingly, a total of 382,219 US exchange visitor visa issued and 73,764 applications refused. Therefore, the US visa rejection rate for exchange visitors during 2018 was 16.18%. Moreover, during the year, 44,538 decisions waived/overcome. Therefore, the adjusted US visa refusal rate for exchange visitors could be lower than 16.18%. However, as explained earlier, some of the waived/overcome decisions (if not all!) may relate to a previous year.
US J-Type visa refusal rate 2018
| Type-J | Sub-Class | Refusal Rate | Decisions | Waived |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| J1 | Exchange visitor | 15.58% | 405,872 | 35,298 |
| J2 | Spouse or child of exchange visitor | 21.02% | 50,111 | 9,240 |
| Total | US type-J visa refusal rate 2018 | 16.18% | 455,983 | 44,538 |
US Type-C and D visa rejection rate 2018
The US C visa is for transit and D visa for crewmembers. Perhaps, since the purpose of both these visas is quite similar. Therefore, at times, applicants may be eligible to apply for a C1/D visa, which is a combination of transit/crewmember visa.
Apparently, during 2018, a total of 345,525 applications decided for the transit visa. Accordingly, a total of 311,298 visas issued and 34,227 applications refused. Therefore, the US transit visa rejection rate was 9.91%. Moreover, during the year, 19,075 decisions waived/overcome. Therefore, the adjusted US visa refusal rate for transit visa could be lower than 9.91%. However, as explained earlier, some of the waived/overcome decisions (if not all!) may relate to the preceding years.
US Type-C and D Transit visa rejection rate 2018
| Type-C & D | Sub-Class | Refusal Rate | Decisions | Waived |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| C1 | Person in transit | 28.86% | 13,443 | 699 |
| C1/D | Combination transit/crew member | 9.16% | 318,081 | 17,506 |
| C2 | Person in transit to UN HQs | 50.00% | 8 | 1 |
| C3 | Foreign government official, immediate family, attendant, servant, or personal employee in transit | 5.11% | 6,413 | 217 |
| D | Crew member | 11.75% | 7,580 | 652 |
| Total | US Type-C & D visa rejection rate 2018 | 9.91% | 345,525 | 19,075 |
US L-type intracompany transferee visa refusal rate 2018
Apparently, during 2018, a total of 181,116 applications for US L-type intracompany transferee visa decided. Accordingly, a total of 153,099 L-type visas issued and 28,017 applications rejected. Therefore, the US visa refusal rate for L-type intracompany transferee visa during 2018 was 15.47%. Moreover, during the year, 16,635 intracompany transferee refusal decisions waived/overcome. Therefore, the adjusted US L-type visa rejection rate could be lower than 15.47%. However, as explained earlier, some of the waived/overcome decisions (if not all!) may relate to the preceding year(s).
US L-type intracompany transferee visa rejection rate 2018
| Type-L | Sub-Class | Refusal Rate | Decisions | Waived |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| L1 | Intracompany transferee (executive, managerial, and specialized personnel continuing employment with international firm or corporation) | 18.01% | 90,724 | 8,446 |
| L2 | Spouse or child of intracompany transferee | 12.92% | 90,392 | 8,189 |
| Total | US Type-L visa rejection rate 2018 | 15.47% | 181,116 | 16,635 |
US A-Type visa rejection rate 2018
Apparently, during 2018, a total of 133,488 applications for US type-A visa for diplomats and their family and personal staff decided. Accordingly, a total of 113,820 type-A visas issued and 19,668 applications refused. Therefore, the USA visa refusal rate for type-A visa application was 14.73%. Moreover, during the year, 15,813 decisions waived/overcome. Therefore, the adjusted refusal rate could be lower than 14.73%. However, as explained earlier, some of the waived/overcome decisions (if not all!) may relate to the preceding year(s).
US A-Type visa rejection rate 2018
| Type-A | Sub-Class | Refusal Rate | Decisions | Waived |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| A1 | Ambassador, public minister, career diplomat, consul, and immediate family | 22.14% | 12,658 | 2,504 |
| A2 | Other foreign government official or employee, and immediate family | 13.58% | 119,335 | 12,881 |
| A3 | Attendant, servant, or personal employee of A1 and A2, and immediate family | 44.48% | 1495 | 428 |
| Total | US type-A visa refusal rate 2018 | 14.73% | 133,488 | 15,813 |
US K-type fiance(e) visa rejection rate 2018
Apparently, during 2018, a total of 49,204 applications decided for US K-type fiance(e) visa. Accordingly, a total of 28,662 visas issued and 20,542 applications refused. Therefore, the US visa rejection rate for K-type fiance(e) visa during 2018 was 41.75%, which is quite high! Moreover, during the year, 11,407 decisions waived/overcome. Therefore, the adjusted US visa refusal rate for the US fiance(e) visa could be lower than 41.75%. However, as explained earlier, some of the waived/overcome decisions (if not all!) may relate to the preceding years.
US K-type fiance(e) visa rejection rate 2018
| Type-K | Sub-Class | Refusal Rate | Decisions | Waived |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| K1 | Fiance(e) of U.S. citizen | 42.99% | 43,280 | 10,427 |
| K2 | Child of K1 | 32.41% | 5,890 | 973 |
| K3 | Certain spouse of U.S. citizen | 82.35% | 34 | 7 |
| K4 | Child of K3 | N/A | 0 | 0 |
| Total | US K-type fiance(e) visa rejection rate 2018 | 41.75% | 49,204 | 11,407 |
Please note: the US K1-K4 visas are more akin to an immigrant visa. Perhaps, these visa applications are first pre-processed in the immigrant operating system. However, once an application is deemed eligible then it is moved to the nonimmigrant operating system. Accordingly, the data reflects processing actions which occurred in both operating systems.
Other US nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applications
Moreover, during 2018, a total of 302,375 applications decided for other types of US nonimmigrant visa. Accordingly, a total of 244,280 visas issued and 58,095 applications refused. Therefore, the USA visa refusal rate for other nonimmigrant visas during 2018 was 19.21%. Furthermore, during the year, 40,051 decisions waived/overcome. Therefore, the adjusted US visa refusal rate for other types of nonimmigrant visas could be less than 19.21%. However, as explained earlier, some of the waived/overcome decisions (if not all!) may relate to the preceding years.
For details relating to the US visa rejection rate during 2018 for other types of nonimmigrant visa (NIV) applications, please refer to the following table:
| Other NIVs | Sub-Classes | Refusal Rate | Decisions | Waived |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| CW1 | Commonwealth of Northern Mariana Islands transitional worker | 32.83% | 4,469 | 1,258 |
| CW2 | Spouse or child of CW1 | 34.99% | 843 | 256 |
| E1 | Treaty trader, spouse and children | 24.51% | 8,666 | 1,705 |
| E2 | Treaty investor, spouse and children | 24.67% | 54,670 | 8,647 |
| E2C | E2C Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands investor, spouse and children | 40.91% | 66 | 24 |
| E3 | Australian specialty occupation professional | 10.96% | 6,058 | 572 |
| E3D | Spouse or child of Australian specialty occupation professional | 9.15% | 4,778 | 408 |
| E3R | Returning Australian specialty occupation professional | 7.83% | 3,191 | 234 |
| G1 | Principal resident representative of recognized foreign member government to international organization, staff, and immediate family | 27.96% | 7,396 | 1,878 |
| G2 | Other representative of recognized foreign member government to international organization, and immediate family | 18.07% | 19,943 | 2,777 |
| G3 | Representative of non-recognized or nonmember foreign government to international organization, and immediate family | 24.62% | 455 | 101 |
| G4 | International organization officer or employee, and immediate family | 11.95% | 26,823 | 2,921 |
| G5 | Attendant, servant, or personal employee of G1 through G4 and immediate family | 37.89% | 871 | 251 |
| I | Representative of foreign information media, spouse and children | 16.56% | 14,230 | 1,296 |
| M1 | Vocational and other non-academic student | 31.60% | 13,621 | 1,728 |
| M2 | Spouse or child of vocational student | 37.22% | 583 | 97 |
| M3 | Border commuter vocational or non-academic student | 0 | 0 | |
| N8 | Parent of SK3 or SN3 special immigrant | 53.85% | 39 | 5 |
| N9 | Child of N8 or of SK1, SK2, SK4, SN1, SN2, or SN4 special immigrant | 33.33% | 6 | 0 |
| NATO1 | Principal permanent representative of member state to NATO (including any of its subsidiary bodies) resident in the U.S., and resident members of official staff; principal NATO officers; and immediate family | 0.00% | 3 | 0 |
| NATO2 | Other representatives of member states to NATO (including any of its subsidiary bodies), and immediate family; dependents of member of a force entering in accordance with provisions of NATO agreements; members of such force if issued visas | 2.92% | 6,791 | 178 |
| NATO3 | Official clerical staff accompanying a representative of member state to NATO, and immediate family | N/A | 0 | 0 |
| NATO4 | Officials of NATO (other than those classifiable as NATO1), and immediate family | 1.94% | 206 | 4 |
| NATO5 | Experts, other than NATO4 officials, employed in missions on behalf of NATO, and their dependents | 3.33% | 30 | 0 |
| NATO6 | Members of a civilian component accompanying a force entering in accordance with the provisions of NATO agreements, and their dependents | 3.89% | 592 | 22 |
| NATO7 | Attendant, servant, or personal employee of NATO1 through NATO6, and immediate family | 0.00% | 2 | 0 |
| O1 | Person with extraordinary ability in the sciences, art, education, business, or athletics | 18.85% | 20,830 | 3,614 |
| O2 | Person accompanying and assisting in the artistic or athletic performance by O1 | 16.33% | 10,078 | 1,233 |
| O3 | Spouse or child of O1 or O2 | 18.40% | 6,033 | 1,009 |
| P1 | Internationally recognized athlete or member of an internationally recognized entertainment group | 14.10% | 28,311 | 2,848 |
| P2 | Artist or entertainer in a reciprocal exchange program | 9.43% | 159 | 14 |
| P3 | Artist or entertainer in a culturally unique program | 21.68% | 13,056 | 1,355 |
| P4 | Spouse or child of P1, P2, or P3 | 18.09% | 1,692 | 219 |
| Q1 | Participant in an International Cultural Exchange Program | 10.37% | 2,228 | 164 |
| R1 | Person in a religious occupation | 26.81% | 6,295 | 905 |
| R2 | Spouse or child of R1 | 37.08% | 2,702 | 465 |
| S5 | Informant possessing critical reliable information concerning criminal organization or enterprise | N/A | 0 | 0 |
| S6 | Informant possessing critical reliable information concerning terrorist organization, enterprise, or operation | 100.00% | 1 | 1 |
| S7 | Spouse, married or unmarried son or daughter, or parent of S5 of S6 | 100.00% | 4 | 2 |
| T1 | Victim of a severe form of trafficking in persons | N/A | 0 | |
| T2 | Spouse of T1 | 28.26% | 92 | 24 |
| T3 | Child of T1 | 28.16% | 412 | 108 |
| T4 | Parent of T1 under 21 years of age | 30.00% | 40 | 9 |
| T5 | Unmarried sibling under age 18 of T1 under 21 years of age | 22.73% | 44 | 9 |
| T6 | Adult/minor child of derivative beneficiary of T1 | 50.00% | 22 | 10 |
| TN | NAFTA professional | 16.07% | 21,386 | 1,842 |
| TD | Spouse or child of TN | 11.86% | 11,617 | 922 |
| U1 | Victim of criminal activity | 65.50% | 371 | 187 |
| U2 | Spouse of U1 | 48.21% | 336 | 152 |
| U3 | Child of U1 | 30.58% | 2,191 | 520 |
| U4 | Parent of U1 under 21 years of age | 64.36% | 101 | 61 |
| U5 | Unmarried sibling under age 18 of U1 under 21 years of age | 40.48% | 42 | 16 |
| Total | US visa refusal rate for other subclasses 2018 | 19.21% | 302,375 | 40,051 |
What is the US tourist visa rejection rate by country 2018?
The table below provides the B1/B2 US business and tourist visa rejection rate by country 2018 during 2016, 2017 and 2018. And also the country-wise breakdown of the number of B-type visas issued during FY 2018. Accordingly, the information indicates that most number of USA B1/B2 visas issued to Chinese nationals. Apparently, during 2018 more than 50% of the total (6.8m) B1/B2 US visitor visa issued to nationals of 4 countries i.e. China (18.26%), Mexico (15.38%), India (9.13%) and Brazil (8.55%).
US B1/B2 business and tourist visa refusal rate by country
| S No | Country of Nationality | 2016 | 2017 | 2018 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | China | 12.35% | 14.57% | 17.00% |
| 2 | Mexico | 23.49% | 22.50% | 24.93% |
| 3 | India | 26.02% | 23.29% | 26.07% |
| 4 | Brazil | 16.70% | 12.34% | 12.73% |
| 5 | Argentina | 2.14% | 1.79% | 1.73% |
| 6 | Colombia | 17.79% | 21.93% | 35.11% |
| 7 | Israel | 4.09% | 4.88% | 5.10% |
| 8 | Ecuador | 29.18% | 27.95% | 31.38% |
| 9 | Nigeria | 41.44% | 44.95% | 57.47% |
| 10 | Philippines | 27.29% | 25.54% | 27.07% |
| 11 | Dominican Republic | 31.88% | 35.78% | 49.54% |
| 12 | Poland | 5.37% | 5.92% | 3.99% |
| 13 | Russia | 9.29% | 11.61% | 14.89% |
| 14 | Vietnam | 29.49% | 24.06% | 26.20% |
| 15 | Peru | 28.61% | 25.97% | 28.53% |
| 16 | Costa Rica | 8.39% | 6.49% | 9.91% |
| 17 | Turkey | 13.62% | 17.86% | 17.49% |
| 18 | Hong Kong S. A. R. | 4.61% | 3.45% | 4.25% |
| 19 | Saudi Arabia | 4.04% | 5.26% | 7.47% |
| 20 | Indonesia | 11.19% | 10.99% | 12.81% |
| 21 | South Africa | 6.83% | 6.44% | 7.31% |
| 22 | Egypt | 28.61% | 34.24% | 32.15% |
| 23 | Pakistan | 46.43% | 49.40% | 47.89% |
| 24 | Jamaica | 35.64% | 46.78% | 54.46% |
| 25 | Thailand | 17.82% | 20.15% | 22.17% |
| 26 | Ukraine | 40.83% | 34.54% | 40.97% |
| 27 | El Salvador | 57.12% | 52.97% | 51.49% |
| 28 | Romania | 11.43% | 11.76% | 10.44% |
| 29 | Malaysia | 3.65% | 3.93% | 4.94% |
| 30 | Guatemala | 48.68% | 47.14% | 53.62% |
| 31 | Honduras | 42.76% | 40.35% | 60.32% |
| 32 | Great Britain and N Ireland – VWP | 20.42% | 20.15% | 20.29% |
| 33 | Panama | 12.05% | 11.61% | 11.71% |
| 34 | Jordan | 40.34% | 40.06% | 42.62% |
| 35 | Haiti | 64.52% | 71.44% | 67.59% |
| 36 | Trinidad and Tobago | 22.70% | 22.46% | 19.28% |
| 37 | Uruguay | 3.14% | 3.19% | 4.11% |
| 38 | Germany – VWP | 7.25% | 5.91% | 7.40% |
| 39 | Venezuela | 40.25% | 42.87% | 74.28% |
| 40 | Lebanon | 25.41% | 31.75% | 25.22% |
| 41 | Bolivia | 14.36% | 18.08% | 22.19% |
| 42 | Kenya | 26.60% | 33.17% | 41.59% |
| 43 | Kuwait | 4.56% | 8.32% | 2.71% |
| 44 | Belarus | 14.87% | 21.69% | 23.26% |
| 45 | Bangladesh | 62.82% | 60.88% | 40.05% |
| 46 | Ethiopia | 38.13% | 50.30% | 41.74% |
| 47 | Nepal | 49.54% | 46.42% | 51.53% |
| 48 | Korea, South – VWP | 8.65% | 9.05% | 7.96% |
| 49 | United Arab emirates | 4.02% | 5.80% | 3.75% |
| 50 | Ghana | 65.70% | 56.18% | 49.35% |
| 51 | Algeria | 36% | 43.96% | 39.26% |
| 52 | Bulgaria | 16.86% | 14.97% | 11.32% |
| 53 | Kazakhstan | 27.55% | 32.81% | 39.38% |
| 54 | Albania | 35.95% | 40.45% | 41.92% |
| 55 | Croatia | 6.78% | 5.10% | 5.92% |
| 56 | Serbia | 18.77% | 22.33% | 25.93% |
| 57 | France – VWP | 7.30% | 7.43% | 10.11% |
| 58 | Australia – VWP | 15.38% | 17.18% | 17.99% |
| 59 | Paraguay | 7.47% | 6.83% | 8.02% |
| 60 | Nicaragua | 44.54% | 43.28% | 46.75% |
| 61 | Barbados | 11.24% | 8.72% | 7.07% |
| 62 | Bahamas, the | 9.35% | 9.32% | 12.51% |
| 63 | Morocco | 26.77% | 36.99% | 42.88% |
| 64 | Sri Lanka | 21.69% | 26.19% | 33.61% |
| 65 | Italy – VWP | 10.86% | 12.54% | 14.83% |
| 66 | Cameroon | 36.84% | 47.29% | 52.27% |
| 67 | Netherlands – VWP | 16.62% | 9.65% | 9.56% |
| 68 | Iraq | 51.71% | 60.71% | 56.95% |
| 69 | Burma | 13.02% | 17.88% | 23.12% |
| 70 | Congo, Democratic Republic of the | 46.55% | 49.94% | 52.23% |
| 71 | Armenia | 45.88% | 51.87% | 53.83% |
| 72 | Uzbekistan | 57.09% | 50.29% | 61.76% |
| 73 | Uganda | 41.53% | 42.38% | 42.29% |
| 74 | China – Taiwan – VWP | 5.36% | 5.42% | 6.80% |
| 75 | Spain – VWP | 15.09% | 17.26% | 14.04% |
| 76 | Azerbaijan | 14.83% | 27.63% | 28.45% |
| 77 | Palestinian Authority Travel Document | 40.64% | 50.98% | 53.87% |
| 78 | Mongolia | 43.63% | 53.62% | 56.51% |
| 79 | Cote d’Ivoire | 37.38% | 33.72% | 33.81% |
| 80 | Zimbabwe | 22.88% | 26.32% | 26.60% |
| 81 | Japan – VWP | 8.12% | 8.47% | 9.76% |
| 82 | Angola | 48.52% | 36.01% | 51.76% |
| 83 | Tunisia | 15.92% | 19.53% | 27.67% |
| 84 | Qatar | 3.50% | 7.48% | 8.34% |
| 85 | Tanzania | 23.05% | 18.36% | 19.87% |
| 86 | Sweden – VWP | 12.78% | 13.92% | 15.20% |
| 87 | Cyprus | 2.03% | 1.69% | 2.38% |
| 88 | Suriname | 10.86% | 11.44% | 8.57% |
| 89 | Cuba | 81.85% | 77.17% | 50.97% |
| 90 | Cambodia | 35.62% | 41.05% | 32.63% |
| 91 | Kosovo | 41.48% | 37.92% | 35.97% |
| 92 | Guyana | 25.76% | 37.92% | 70.62% |
| 93 | Macedonia | 33.84% | 28.69% | 31.29% |
| 94 | Georgia | 62.82% | 61.09% | 62.35% |
| 95 | Oman | 1.93% | 3.46% | 4.87% |
| 96 | Sudan | 36.59% | 51.37% | 59.83% |
| 97 | Bahrain | 6.26% | 9.53% | 6.96% |
| 98 | Montenegro | 28.69% | 26.41% | 35.35% |
| 99 | Bosnia and Herzegovina | 19.70% | 16.37% | 23.50% |
| 100 | Switzerland – VWP | 5.20% | 5.89% | 5.50% |
| 101 | Belize | 35.21% | 30.91% | 34.55% |
| 102 | Senegal | 52.46% | 56.85% | 59.18% |
| 103 | Macau S.A.R. | 7.71% | 5.38% | 7.79% |
| 104 | St Lucia | 27.46% | 22.34% | 21.90% |
| 105 | Fiji | 20.23% | 26.59% | 41.74% |
| 106 | Iran | 45.02% | 58.66% | 87.66% |
| 107 | Moldova | 36.35% | 49.12% | 61.10% |
| 108 | Chile – VWP | 11.43% | 13.87% | 11.34% |
| 109 | Liberia | 70.23% | 64.98% | 64.36% |
| 110 | Austria – VWP | 5.93% | 5% | 5.39% |
| 111 | Denmark – VWP | 11.74% | 13.18% | 12.38% |
| 112 | Antigua and Barbuda | 22.11% | 20.50% | 19.07% |
| 113 | Zambia | 22.26% | 21.72% | 22.45% |
| 114 | New Zealand – VWP | 15.45% | 22.02% | 19.97% |
| 115 | Norway – VWP | 21.96% | 17.36% | 12.40% |
| 116 | Belgium – VWP | 7.33% | 6.96% | 9.77% |
| 117 | Ireland – VWP | 15.48% | 17.89% | 21.77% |
| 118 | Portugal – VWP | 8.97% | 11.06% | 7.28% |
| 119 | Grenada | 35.71% | 26.94% | 26.44% |
| 120 | Mali | 57.58% | 59.43% | 50.60% |
| 121 | Rwanda | 43.79% | 52.17% | 44.51% |
| 122 | Mauritius | 5.53% | 8.29% | 6.49% |
| 123 | Saint Vincent and the Grenadines | 28.31% | 20.38% | 19.77% |
| 124 | Cabo Verde | 45.89% | 50.70% | 54.22% |
| 125 | Kyrgyzstan | 51.68% | 55.58% | 58.90% |
| 126 | Greece – VWP | 16.37% | 13.14% | 16.93% |
| 127 | Czech Republic – VWP | 7.82% | 6.81% | 10.37% |
| 128 | Syria | 59.77% | 59.11% | 77.31% |
| 129 | Laos | 62.37% | 63.66% | 64.06% |
| 130 | Burkina Faso | 65.35% | 75.74% | 71.16% |
| 131 | St. Kitts and Nevis | 27.16% | 26.66% | 24.98% |
| 132 | Mozambique | 10.29% | 26.18% | 10.22% |
| 133 | Dominica | 31.63% | 28.74% | 37.13% |
| 134 | Benin | 38.01% | 42.10% | 47.74% |
| 135 | Afghanistan | 73.80% | 72.14% | 71.39% |
| 136 | Guinea | 63.53% | 64.59% | 66.16% |
| 137 | Togo | 54.39% | 59.88% | 59.61% |
| 138 | Malawi | 14.52% | 26.49% | 28.20% |
| 139 | Sierra Leone | 61.25% | 47.30% | 60.56% |
| 140 | Madagascar | 12.12% | 11% | 11.77% |
| 141 | Congo, Republic of the | 45.63% | 48.47% | 50.56% |
| 142 | Hungary – VWP | 15.48% | 13.04% | 10.53% |
| 143 | Tajikistan | 55.24% | 51.84% | 53.39% |
| 144 | Namibia | 5.56% | 6.31% | 8.40% |
| 145 | Gabon | 21.29% | 26.10% | 40% |
| 146 | Niger | 31.14% | 30.65% | 43.33% |
| 147 | Tonga | 31.58% | 32.85% | 51.33% |
| 148 | Botswana | 18.97% | 17.94% | 18.67% |
| 149 | Samoa | 28.44% | 40.32% | 26.26% |
| 150 | Finland – VWP | 7.72% | 11.78% | 15.05% |
| 151 | Burundi | 61.33% | 75.55% | 74.39% |
| 152 | Turkmenistan | 32.95% | 40.60% | 52.93% |
| 153 | Iceland – VWP | 7.69% | 7.46% | 7.14% |
| 154 | Equatorial guinea | 17.75% | 18.21% | 21.29% |
| 155 | Eritrea | 50.49% | 71.69% | 69.54% |
| 156 | Gambia, the | 69.87% | 70.27% | 64.22% |
| 157 | Singapore – VWP | 15.10% | 13.74% | 14.29% |
| 158 | Slovakia – VWP | 12.28% | 13.30% | 16.21% |
| 159 | Chad | 42.53% | 51.65% | 60.80% |
| 160 | Yemen | 48.85% | 60.76% | 82.50% |
| 161 | Papua New Guinea | 10.56% | 9.34% | 6.84% |
| 162 | Eswatini- previously Swaziland | 8.03% | 12.59% | 8.49% |
| 163 | Bhutan | 69.78% | 52.43% | 59.63% |
| 164 | Lithuania – VWP | 22.36% | 22.54% | 17.29% |
| 165 | Mauritania | 71.45% | 67.30% | 61.58% |
| 166 | Canada | 47.93% | 41.14% | 38.98% |
| 167 | Latvia – VWP | 13.45% | 12.83% | 15.24% |
| 168 | South Sudan | 43.89% | 47.52% | 41.29% |
| 169 | Slovenia – VWP | 10.43% | 19.22% | 12.33% |
| 170 | Djibouti | 47.09% | 74.80% | 82.96% |
| 171 | Estonia – VWP | 20.74% | 21.16% | 26.73% |
| 172 | Lesotho | 21.20% | 35.97% | 21.94% |
| 173 | Libya | 40.58% | 45.50% | 73.73% |
| 174 | Central African Republic | 35.12% | 44.24% | 36.03% |
| 175 | Malta – VWP | 8.38% | 4.81% | 9.59% |
| 176 | Seychelles | 9.66% | 13.14% | 11.64% |
| 177 | Luxembourg – VWP | 7.69% | 5.74% | 5.19% |
| 178 | Maldives | 47.56% | 27.74% | 39.88% |
| 179 | Solomon Islands | 4.28% | 16.79% | 3.57% |
| 180 | Comoros | 53.73% | 48.45% | 69.46% |
| 181 | Vanuatu | 16.67% | 13.51% | 38.31% |
| 182 | Kiribati | 5.81% | 5.13% | 25.33% |
| 183 | Guinea – Bissau | 71.88% | 71.61% | 76.09% |
| 184 | Timor-Leste | 26.67% | 7.02% | 8.16% |
| 185 | Somalia | 63.89% | 75.50% | 90.16% |
| 186 | Marshall Islands, Republic of the | 29.41% | 5.88% | 17.39% |
| 187 | Brunei – VWP | 13.51% | 3.70% | 4.35% |
| 188 | Sao Tome and Principe | 24.14% | 14.81% | 26.09% |
| 189 | Tuvalu | 20.13% | 15.38% | 34.78% |
| 190 | Liechtenstein – VWP | – | – | – |
| 191 | Nauru | 13.33% | 20.97% | 21.43% |
| 192 | Andorra – VWP | 28.57% | 0% | NA |
| 193 | Republic of Palau | 53.33% | 83.33% | 71.43% |
| 194 | Monaco – VWP | – | – | – |
| 195 | San Marino – VWP | NA | NA | 25% |
| 196 | Federated states of Micronesia | 25% | 100% | 100% |
| 197 | USA visitor visa b1/b2 from Vatican City | NA | 36.36% | NA |
| 198 | Korea, North | 15% | 54.55% | 100% |
| 199 | Western Sahara | N/A | 100% | NA |
| 200 | * USA visitor visa b1/b2 Non-nationality based issuances | 28.92% | 35.61% | 40.27% |
US visa rejection rate by type and country 2018: FAQs
During 2018, a total 9.5 m US immigrant and non-immigrant visas (incl. B1/B2/Border Crossing Cards) issued.
In 2018, 12.7 m decisions made on US NIVs and 9 m NIVs issued, including 1 m B1/B2/Border Crossing Cards issued at the US foreign posts from outside the USA. And 3.7 m NIV applications refused. Accordingly, the US visa refusal rate for all types of NIV applications from outside the USA was 29.25% during 2018.
During 2018, 3.17 m US B1/B2 visa applications refused and the refusal rate is 31.82%.
During 2018, the most number (1.24m) of US B1/B2 tourist and business visas issued to Chinese nationals. However, the US B1/B2 business and tourist visa rejection rate from China is showing an uptrend during the preceding 3 years. Accordingly, the adjusted US B1/B2 tourist and business visa rejection rate by country 2018 from China for 2018 was 17.00%. Perhaps, the US refusal rate from China in 2018 (17.00%) was higher than that during 2016 (12.35%) and 2017 (14.57%).
Evidently, the US visa rejection by country 2018 from Mexico was 24.93% for B1/B2 visa applications. Perhaps, the US visa denial rate from Mexico in 2018 (24.93%) was slightly higher than that during 2016 (23.49%) and 2017 (22.50%).
Evidently, the USA visa rejection rate by country 2018 from India was 26.07% for B1/B2 visa applications. Perhaps, the US visa denial rate from India in 2018 (26.07%) was higher than that during 2016 (26.02%) and 2017 (23.29%).
Evidently, the USA visa rejection rate by country 2018 from Brazil was 12.73% for B1/B2 visa applications. Perhaps, the US visa denial rate from Brazil in 2018 (12.73%) was lower than that in (16.70%).
Evidently, the USA visa rejection rate by country 2018 from Argentina was merely 1.73% for B1/B2 visa applications. Perhaps, the US visa denial rate from Argentina in 2018 (26.07%) was lower than that during 2016 (2.14%) and 2017 (1.79%).
Evidently, the USA visa rejection rate by country 2018 from Colombia was merely 35.11% for B1/B2 visa applications. Perhaps, the US visa denial rate from Colombia in 2018 (35.11%) was much higher than that during 2016 (17.79%) and 2017 (21.93%).
Evidently, the USA visa rejection rate by country 2018 from Israel was merely 5.10% for B1/B2 visa applications. Perhaps, the US visa denial rate from Israel in 2018 (5.10%) was higher than that during 2016 (4.09%) and 2017 (4.88%).
In 2018, 108.7K H-type temporary work visa refused and the denial rate is 15.50%.
In 2018, 600K decisions made on F-type student visa and 210.5K applications denied. Therefore, the USA F-type student visa refusal rate is 35.09%.
During 2018, 455.9K decisions made on J-type exchange visitor visa and 73.7K applications denied. Therefore, the US J-type exchange visitor visa refusal rate is 16.18%.
In 2018, 345.5K decisions made on C and D-Type transit visa and 34.2K applications denied. Therefore, the US transit visa rejection rate is 9.91%.
During 2018, 181K decisions made on L-type intracompany transferee visa and 28K applications denied. Therefore, the US L-type intracompany transferee visa refusal rate is 15.47%.
In 2018, 133.5K decisions made on A-type visa for diplomats and 28K applications denied. Therefore, the US A-type visa refusal rate is 14.73%.
During 2018, 49.2K decisions made on K-type fiance(e) visa and 20.5K applications denied. Therefore, the US K-type fiance(e) visa refusal rate is 41.75%.
During 2018, 302.3K decisions made on Other types of non-immigrant visas (NIVs) and 58K applications denied. Therefore, the US visa denial rate for other types of NIVs is 19.21%.
