In an era where social media platforms are increasingly used to share personal experiences and frustrations, a recent incident involving US tourist visa applications has captured attention. Indian professionals and families are voicing concerns about visa rejections, often citing strong financial standing and stable employment as factors that seemingly don’t guarantee approval. Explanations for these rejections are frequently scarce, adding to the unease.
Amidst this, a video surfaced featuring an Indian man speaking with an American YouTuber. In the conversation, the man recounted an experience his friend had with a US Embassy officer. According to the man, his friend, who hails from Delhi and had reportedly never traveled within India, was advised by the embassy officer to first explore his own country before applying for a US visa.
The anecdote, shared by the Instagram user and vlogger Jay, quickly gained traction. In the video, Jay engages with a man who claims to have visited 29 states within India. The man then relays the story about his friend’s visa application, highlighting the officer’s suggestion to prioritize domestic travel.
The incident ignited a flurry of reactions on social media. Many users commented on the beauty and diversity of India, encouraging travel within the country. Others debated the immigration policies, with some agreeing with the idea of prioritizing skilled immigrants while questioning the sentiment behind the “see your own country first” advice. Some found the officer’s supposed statement amusing or even beneficial for Indian tourism, while a few expressed skepticism about the authenticity of the account, likening it to a movie scene.
(Disclaimer: This report is based on user-generated content from social media. Hindustan Times has not independently verified the claims.)