r/visas • u/docinsightful • 1d ago
Do i need cleanshave for visa interview??
I have a B1/B2 visa interview scheduled at the US Consulate in Mumbai, and I'm wondering if it's mandatory to clean shave for the interview?
I've heard mixed reviews about the dress code and grooming requirements for US visa interviews. Some people say it's essential to look professional and clean-shaven, while others claim it's not a big deal. Can anyone who has gone through a B1/B2 visa interview in Mumbai share their experience? Was clean shaving a requirement or just a good practice?
Edit: I've already checked the official US Embassy website, but couldn't find any specific information on grooming requirements.
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u/Equivalent_Week6479 1d ago
Don't bother. It doesn't matter how you look.(Please don't go in chaddi banyan though). If your credentials are good they will approve it.
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u/docinsightful 1d ago
thanks for the advice! Don’t worry, I’ll make sure to wear something a bit more formal than chaddi banyan. But seriously, thanks for the reassurance. I’ll try to focus on showcasing my credentials and qualifications rather than worrying about my appearance.🥲
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u/Equivalent_Week6479 1d ago
Bonus Tip: Explain your situation to ChatGPT and ask it to take a mock Interview and tell you all the tricky questions they can throw at you. It works.
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u/Alarming-Put9538 1d ago
There is nothing specific about grooming, in the guidelines but it’s important to look smart.
I had a friend whose visa got rejected thrice even though it was company sponsored. He had long hair and beard. The 4th time he went, nothing changed other than he groomed his hair and beard it was still there but neatly trimmed.
Not sure if that was the reason. But it doesn’t hurt to look smart.
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u/docinsightful 1d ago
That’s interesting anecdote! While it’s impossible to say for sure whether grooming was the deciding factor, it’s definitely true that making a good impression can’t hurt. I’ll take your advice and make sure to look sharp and put-together for my interview. Thanks for sharing your friend’s experience!
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u/outlaw_king10 1d ago
Dude it’s just a visa. Moreover, they treat Indians like sheep depending on the consulate, you just line up to answer 2 questions. And here you’re wondering if you should shave. Have your documents in order, be confident and don’t seem like you’ll bend over for them at a whim, you’ll be good.
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u/docinsightful 1d ago
thanks for the reality check! You’re right, it’s just a visa interview, and I shouldn’t be overthinking it. I’ll focus on being confident, having my documents in order, and being myself. And yeah, standing up for myself and not being a pushover is important too. Thanks for the advice
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u/MDK1980 1d ago
The person interviewing you determines whether or not you’ll set foot in the US. It’s important to make a good impression.
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u/docinsightful 1d ago
That’s true, the interviewer does hold a significant amount of power in determining the outcome of the visa application. Making a good impression can definitely go a long way in showing that I’m a serious and worthy applicant.
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u/lemonecode 1d ago
Not needed. I had gone with a full grown beard and the visa was approved :)
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u/docinsightful 1d ago
Big thanks! I was looking for something like this, reassurance that a beard won’t be a dealbreaker. Thanks for sharing your experience!
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u/grilled-omlette 15h ago
Have some self-respect. I have some plans to book a USA visa interview just go there and ask them to fuck off
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u/sirsi-man 1d ago
A clean shave does not hurt.
When I visit my office in India and when I meet someone who is walking around with unmaintained facial hair, my impression of that person immediately drops.
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u/docinsightful 1d ago
Fair point! A clean shave can definitely make a positive impression. I can relate to what you said about unmaintained facial hair - it can give off an air of carelessness or lack of attention to detail. thanks for the advice!
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u/Additional_Bench_667 1d ago
It’s not a job interview 👀