nattythreads

I've held a series of O1 Visas over a twenty year period. I lived primarily in Los Angeles. I still have a son over there who is an American citizen. Before lockdown really hit, I applied in haste for a B1 Visa to allow me to get back. It got refused at the Embassy and they cancelled my ESTA. it was a moment of madness but I wanted to get back to my girlfriend and not have to leave after a couple of months.

I have a sponsor for a new O1. But I'm wondering whether there is any chance they might reinstate my ESTA so I can complete application in the US? Its been fourteen months since I left. I have never overstayed a Visa.

Any thoughts would be most welcome.

Thanks x

Noorah101

All you can do is apply for ESTA again to see if it gets approved. It won't be "reinstated", it will be a new one.

Rene

Noorah101

And if this is a new O-1 visa, it can't be completed from within the USA. Only an embassy outside the USA can issue a visa to the USA.

Rene

nattythreads

Thanks Rene. I really appreciate that. I understand it would be a new ESTA - I'm just wondering what the likelihood is that they'll entertain it? I'd hate to get refused again for fear it might interfere with O1. I know that you're also allowed to stay in US during application and after approval for O1, although you can't get officially approved until visit to London US Embassy. We didn't actually return home as a family between 2009 and 2015 at one point.

I would appreciate any guidance you all have.

Thanks much to all x

Noorah101

Even if the ESTA is denied, it shouldn't prohibit an O-1 approval. Different visa, different purpose.

Rene

nattythreads

That's what I was told but I'm really nervous, Rene1 I just don't want to give another "Have you ever been denied...?" on my application. I just want to get an idea if after 14 mths they might turn round and say no. Plus I'd quite like to se my girlfriend and kid in next few months if at all possible. Thanks for replies. x

scrubbedexpat099

How would anybody on here know?

You apply and find out.They can always come and see you.

CR1 may be a better option.

nattythreads

Maybe someone who's had their ESTA application refused again? Rough guess...

scrubbedexpat099

How would they be able to compare their situation you yours or know what the factor is that resulted in their refusal?

FlameAura

You will have to answer yes to that question for the rest of your life, so it really does not matter that much anymore.

Apply for the ESTA, answering yes to that question, and see what the result is. There's nothing else anyone can do or advise.

nattythreads

Look I'm not here for an argument, mate. Just some advice.

nattythreads

OK. Thanks. Fairly brutal on here

Noorah101

You already have to say it anyway... so you won't be saying it "again". Also, remember that ESTA is not a visa. So it depends how the question is worded.

It's possible, yes.

The only way to accomplish that is to risk applying for ESTA.

Rene

nattythreads

OK. I was wondering if anyone else had been in this position. Obviously no.

nattythreads

Thanks for your help.