When Identical Visa Applications Get Different Results

Identical applications. Different outcomes.

Same job. Same company.

Same evidence. But one approval and one denial.

This happened with a husband and wife who were co-CEOs of an Australian fashion company applying for L-1A visas for a new U.S. operation.

The husband's application was approved without issues. The wife's identical application? Denied.

The official reason:

“Insufficient documentation regarding subordinate employees.”

But here’s what puzzles me: both applications contained the exact same information. Same job titles. Same roles. Same company. Same documentation.

We provided a massive filing—over 1,000 pages of evidence. How could applications for the same role have different outcomes?

They were reviewed by different officers.

After receiving the denial, we quickly re-applied, with additional evidence demonstrating the following:

• Detailed office space information

• Financial projections

• Monthly cash flow analysis

• Comprehensive organizational charts

• Employee resumes and job descriptions

The revised application was approved within weeks.

In my years of immigration practice, this case stands out as a perfect example of the system’s unpredictability.

Two identical cases. Two different officers. Two different outcomes.

This is why I always overprepare every application with relevant, not extraneous, information.

The immigration system isn’t always logical or consistent, because sometimes approval comes down to which officer reviews your case, and how much experience and training they have.

The lesson? When your future depends on a system with this much variability, leave nothing to chance. Learn from adversity and use it to your advantage.

What’s the most unpredictable outcome you’ve experienced in your professional life?

Did your identical visa applications get different results? You’re not alone — and we can help. Our team specializes in overcoming denials and building stronger reapplications. Call (949) 940-6725, or book a consultation online to speak with one of our experienced immigration attorneys.

DISCLAIMER: This post does not constitute legal advice, or make any guarantees as to a potential outcome. Consult with a qualified, licensed immigration attorney about the facts of your case before proceeding.