I wanted to visit my brother in the USA, but my ESTA application has been denied. This denial is due to a previous B1/B2 visa denial that occurred 20 years ago when I was a student. However, I subsequently obtained both a 1-year and a 10-year B1/B2 visa and visited the US 10 times for tourism with no overstays.
I applied for a B1/B2 visa in March, and my interview was scheduled for August. Unfortunately, I had to cancel my trip because I had planned to attend a ceremony in the US in April. Then, in May, I was selected in the DV Lottery. Excited about this opportunity, I submitted the DS-260 form on behalf of my family.
However, my B1/B2 visa application was rejected in August under section 214(b) because I had an ongoing immigration process. I realize now that the timing was not right for this. After the interview and checking all pros and cons my family and I have decided not to move to the United States, however there may still be instances where I need to visit on a B1/B2 visa, possibly for work-related purposes like conferences (B1) or short-term tourism visits (B2) to be with my brother.
What would you recommend in this situation? I am considering formally withdrawing the DS-260 application and applying again for a B1/B2 visa, as I can provide evidence that I have no intention of immigrating to the USA. Is there a formal way for withdrawing? Do you think it is enough as an evidence that I don't have now intention to stay there?
Thank you for your assistance.
