What 214(b) means
In U.S. immigration practice, 214(b) generally refers to a nonimmigrant visa refusal based on failure to qualify for the visa classification. Exact use can vary by agency, form, and case posture.
Why 214(b) matters
- 214(b) can affect eligibility, deadlines, status, travel, work authorization, court strategy, or consular processing.
- Ask where 214(b) appears: a USCIS notice, EOIR filing, visa refusal sheet, form instruction, or lawyer memo.
- Do not assume 214(b) means the same thing in family, employment, humanitarian, and court contexts.
Question to ask about 214(b)
If 214(b) appears in your immigration paperwork, ask what agency uses the term and what deadline or evidence issue it creates.