If your B1/B2 visa has been revoked under INA § 221(i), especially due to an old or dismissed arrest, you may feel unfairly penalized bu the reality is that even a non criminal or dismissed charge can trigger visa revocation under this section. A revoked visa doesn’t always mean your ability to enter the US is gone forever. We’ve helped many clients restore their travel eligibility with the right legal strategy.
Why This Is Happening More Often
Visa revocations under 221(i) are becoming more frequent as consular officers re-evaluate previously issued visas in light of new data sharing and background checks. Even if a person has not committed any immigration violations, prior contact with law enforcement, even without a conviction, can trigger cancellation. These decisions often happen without prior notice and can disrupt important travel plans.
How We Helped the Client Return to the U.S.
Our client, a respected medical researcher, held a valid B1/B2 tourist visa and was scheduled to deliver an important speech at a prestigious US conference. Just weeks before his planned travel, he was informed that his visa had been revoked under 221(i) with the cited reason being a dismissed domestic violence charge from several years earlier. He had never violated any immigration rules, and the charge had no conviction, but the State Department canceled the visa based solely on the existence of the past arrest.
After receiving notice of the revocation, the client reached out to our office. We immediately assembled a comprehensive legal and factual record showing that the dismissed arrest did not render him inadmissible and that he posed no immigration or security risk. We engaged directly with both the US Embassy and the Department of State, submitting the necessary documentation and legal argument to advocate for the reinstatement of his ability to travel.
As a result of our intervention, we were able to resolve the issue in time for him to enter the US and deliver his speech at the conference as scheduled.
If Your Visa Was Cancelled Over an Old Arrest, We Can Help
A visa revocation under 221(i) can feel like a permanent denial but it doesn’t have to be. With the right legal support, many of these decisions can be reversed or overcome through a new application or direct advocacy with the consulate.
Call our office at (305) 515-0613 or email info@messersmithlaw.com to discuss your case. We’ll help you understand what happened, evaluate your options, and fight to restore your ability to travel to the US without unnecessary delays or penalties.