By Grace Q. Bryant
The U.S. Embassy’s Deputy Consular Chief Nick Worden has revealed that Liberia ranks 11th globally in the highest overstay rate among visa holders, with 20% representing Liberian athletes who received U.S. visas in 2023 but failed to return to Liberia.
During an interview on the Super Morning Show on ELBC on January 8, Worden warned that this concerning trend results in increased scrutiny of Liberian visa applicants.
The overstay rate includes individuals who either remained in the U.S. past their visa expiration or never left the country at all.
Worden explained that such statistics create significant challenges for consular officers when evaluating new visa applications.
“This is an exceptionally high number for any country, and it directly impacts how we assess each Liberian applicant. We must account for the risk posed by individuals who have overstayed, making it harder for subsequent applicants,” he noted.
He outlined the visa application process, which includes creating an account on the U.S. Visa website, completing the DS-160 form, paying the US$185 fee, and scheduling an interview.
The Consular officers assess applicants’ ties to their home country, economic stability, and the credibility of their travel purpose. Applicants must prove their intent to return to Liberia.
“The U.S. immigration system assumes that everyone applying for a visa intends to stay in the U.S. It’s up to the applicant to prove they’ll return home,” Worden emphasized.
He also advised applicants to be honest and transparent about their travel plans. “Lying during the interview can result in a permanent denial of future visa applications,” he cautioned.
While each visa application is considered on its own merits, Worden highlighted that applicants from Liberia face added scrutiny due to the country’s high overstay rate.
He noted that officers take various factors into account, such as job stability, income, family ties, and previous international travel experience.
Applicants should clearly explain the reasons for their trip to the U.S. and ensure that these reasons align with their background. “It’s like a job interview. If your travel reason doesn’t match your history, it could raise doubts,” Worden said.
He stressed the importance of adhering to visa terms, warning that failing to return to Liberia on time can lead to serious consequences.
“The U.S. laws are clear. If you’re issued a tourist visa, you must leave the U.S. when your visa expires. Noncompliance hurts your chances of future visits,” he stated.
Worden also discussed the steps involved in the application process, including the payment instructions and preparation for interviews.
He clarified that it’s possible to reapply after a visa denial, but applicants should wait three to six months before doing so.
“This period gives applicants time to demonstrate a change in their circumstances that might affect the outcome,” he said.
He urged Liberians to follow the law and improve their country’s reputation for visa issuance.
“If the overstay rate starts to decrease, we can consider adjusting the visa process. When Liberians prove they respect the terms of their visas, it improves the chances for future applicants,” Worden said.
Worden reiterated the importance of honesty and preparation in the visa process to ensure the best chance of approval.
He cautioned that no one can guarantee visa approval, and anyone who claims otherwise is likely attempting to scam applicants.
The process involves submitting an application, paying the fee, and attending an interview, with all details available on the official website.
Worden also addressed questions about the application process for individuals wishing to bring relatives to the U.S. saying applicants must be at least 21 years old to petition for family members. While processing times can vary, the U.S. Embassy is working to reduce wait times.
Applicants facing urgent situations, such as medical emergencies, may request expedited processing, though approval is not guaranteed.
Applicants can be denied for various reasons, such as failing to meet requirements, submitting an incorrect application, or attempting to fabricate relationships. Worden stressed the importance of being honest and following all instructions carefully.
“There is no fixed timeline for visa processing, as each case is unique. However, the embassy is addressing long wait times and increasing the number of interviews conducted monthly. Once processed, passports are returned through DHL, which will contact applicants directly for pickup,” he explained.
“If a person has traveled to the U.S., returned on time, and followed the visa terms, it can positively influence their chances of receiving another visa. The U.S. Embassy considers travel history in their decision-making process,” he added.
He said, “For travelers already in the U.S. who face unforeseen circumstances, such as medical emergencies, extensions or status changes can be requested but such applicants must follow the correct process, as failing to comply with immigration rules could result in violations.”
According to him, the U.S. Embassy determines the validity of the visa, while the U.S. immigration officer at the border decides how long a traveler can stay, usually up to six months.
