Renewing an unused B1/B2 US visa
I have a valid 5 years B1/B2 visa that was issued about 4 years ago.
I never used it as I intended to travel to work in a specific project that was cancelled.
Now, There is a similar project scheduled next year. So, I have to renew the visa as it will expire before the project's start date.
Can I renew the visa although it wasn't used (I never traveled to US) ?
Best Answer
Strictly speaking, most visa "renewals" are actually fresh applications for a new visa. That is, the existing visa is not extended, but rather cancelled (if it has not already expired), and a new visa is issued.
There is nothing that requires you to have used your previous visa. It may raise some questions, of course.
When you are asked about the fact that you never used your visa, you can explain that you applied for that visa because of a "specific project," and that the project was cancelled before you used the visa. This is a perfectly plausible story, and I imagine a fairly common one. Unless the consular officer has some reason to doubt you, there should be no problem.
Pictures about "Renewing an unused B1/B2 US visa"
Quick Answer about "Renewing an unused B1/B2 US visa"
Is the applicant re applying to renew a B1 B2 visa that has not been expired for more than 48 months?
For renewing B1/B2 applicants:All applicants are re-applying to renew a B1/B2 visa that has not been expired for more than 48 months. Applicants were at least 14 years old at the time of prior visa issuance.Can you renew B-1 visa?
You must renew your visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. Only diplomatic visa holders and their dependents may renew them in the United States.Can you extend a B1 B2 visa?
B1 Visa Extension and B2 Visa ExtensionYou are allowed to extend tourist visa and extend your business date if you are B1 or B2 holder. The typical amount of time granted to a B visa holder is one to six months. The maximum amount of time you can extend on a B-1 visa is up to 6 months, for a total of 1 year.Can I renew my B1 B2 visa without interview?
The B1 B2 visa renewal without interview is possible though iVisa.com.How to renew US Visa without interview | Appointment free | Michael's Hut
More answers regarding renewing an unused B1/B2 US visa
Answer 2
Tourist (B1/B2) visas can be renewed by mail in most countries, so long as your previous visa was full-validity, and it was not misused. Since you didn't travel on it, there shouldn't be any question over whether it was used properly.
Your nearest U.S. Consulate or Embassy in-country will have instructions on renewal by mail on their website.
Sources: Stack Exchange - This article follows the attribution requirements of Stack Exchange and is licensed under CC BY-SA 3.0.
Images: Stephen Taylor, Arturo Rubio, Roberto Nickson, Dellon Thomas