The US B1/B2 non-immigrant visa interview at the US Embassy in Colombo is short — typically two to five minutes at the consular window. In that time, a consular officer will assess whether you meet the legal standard for issuance: that you intend a temporary visit and will return to Sri Lanka. What you say, how you say it, and whether your documents support your answers all matter.
The following twelve questions are drawn from the direct experience of our senior consultants who have prepared and accompanied clients through hundreds of US visa consultations. They are not guaranteed to appear in this order or wording — consular officers vary — but they represent the themes that consistently determine outcomes.
1. "What is the purpose of your visit to the United States?"
This is almost always the first question. You need a clear, honest, specific answer. "Tourism" alone is weak. Describe what you actually plan to do: the states you will visit, specific attractions or events, whether you are visiting family or friends.
Good answer: "I'm travelling to New York and Washington D.C. for two weeks to visit the museums and historical sites. I have family in New Jersey I'll spend the last few days with." Weak answer: "Sightseeing and to see America."
2. "How long do you plan to stay?"
State a specific number of days or weeks, consistent with your itinerary and return ticket. Vague answers like "a few weeks" or answers that contradict your booking documents raise concern. The officer is checking whether your stated duration matches your supporting documents and seems realistic for your stated purpose.
Good answer: "I'm planning 18 days — my return flight is booked for 14 March." Weak answer: "Maybe three weeks, I'm not sure yet." Uncertainty about duration signals uncertainty about returning.
3. "Do you have any family or relatives in the United States?"
Answer honestly. Having family in the US is not a disqualifier, but undisclosed family is a serious problem if it comes to light. If you have a relative there, state the relationship and explain that they are a citizen/resident and you are visiting them before returning to Sri Lanka.
The concern an officer has about US-based family is that you may intend to overstay and seek to remain. Counter this by emphasising your strong ties at home — your job, your property, your family responsibilities in Sri Lanka.
4. "What do you do in Sri Lanka?"
This question establishes your ties to home. A stable employment or business situation is your strongest asset. Have your employment letter or business registration in hand. If self-employed, explain your business briefly and clearly. If a student, explain your institution and when you graduate.
5. "Who is paying for your trip?"
If you are funding the trip yourself, say so — and be prepared to confirm that your bank statements show sufficient funds. If a sponsor is paying (employer, family member), identify them and have their sponsorship letter and financial evidence ready. Inconsistency between your answer and your documents is a red flag.
6. "Have you travelled to the United States before?"
If yes, state when and for how long. If you overstayed previously, this is a very serious issue that requires specialist advice before you apply — do not attempt to conceal it. Prior compliant travel to the US or any developed country strengthens your application considerably. You can check current visa eligibility and processing information on the US Department of State official visa page.
7. "Have you ever been refused a US visa or any other visa?"
You must answer this honestly. Prior refusals are already in the system and the officer can see them. Attempting to deny a refusal that appears in the record is treated as misrepresentation — a far more serious problem than the original refusal. If you have a prior refusal, explain briefly what has changed in your circumstances since then.
A prior refusal addressed with genuine improved evidence — better financials, new employment, a clearer application — does not prevent approval. Concealment almost certainly does.
8. "Where will you be staying?"
Have your hotel booking confirmations ready, or the name and address of the family/friend you are staying with along with their contact details. The officer is checking that you have a concrete plan, not just a vague intention to "sort it out when I get there."
9. "Do you have a job offer or any plans to work in the US?"
For a B1 business visa or B2 tourist visa, the answer must be no — you cannot accept employment on either. If travelling on a B1 for a specific business activity (meetings, conferences, training), explain the limited, temporary nature of that activity. Expressing any ambiguity about work will very likely result in refusal.
Good answer: "No, I'm visiting purely as a tourist. I have a job in Colombo I'm returning to." Dangerous answer: Any mention of freelance, remote work, or "maybe if I find something." Work intent on a B1/B2 — even implied — is grounds for immediate refusal.
10. "What property or assets do you have in Sri Lanka?"
Property ownership, a vehicle, a business, savings — these all demonstrate ties to Sri Lanka and reasons to return. If you own property, bring the deed or a summary document. The officer is looking for evidence that you have something material to come back to.
11. "Are you married? Do you have children?"
Family dependants in Sri Lanka are strong ties. If your spouse and children are remaining in Sri Lanka, say so clearly. Bring your marriage certificate if relevant. This is one of the most effective responses to the underlying "will you return?" concern.
12. "Why do you want to visit the US specifically — why not another country?"
This question is more common than applicants expect. Have a genuine, specific answer. Perhaps it is specific landmarks, a cultural interest, family in the US, or a particular event. Vague or uncertain answers at this point suggest the true purpose of the trip may be different from what is stated.
Good answer: "I've wanted to visit the Smithsonian and the national parks since I was a student. I also have a cousin in New Jersey I haven't seen in six years." Weak answer: "It's a nice place, I've always wanted to go." Specificity signals genuine tourist intent.
How to Perform Confidently in Your US B1/B2 Visa Interview
- Be brief and direct. The interview is short. Officers are trained to assess confidence and clarity, not length of answer.
- Do not volunteer information beyond what is asked. Answer the question, then stop.
- Complete your DS-160 carefully before the appointment. The consular officer will have your DS-160 responses in front of them. Any discrepancy between what you said on the form and what you say at the window is an immediate problem. Review the DS-160 form on the official CEAC portal well in advance.
- Bring all supporting documents organised and accessible — bank statements, employment letter, itinerary, hotel bookings, return ticket.
- Dress professionally. A professional appearance signals that you take the process seriously.
- Answer in English if you are comfortable doing so. If not, a translator can be arranged, but note that Colombo officers generally speak English fluently.
Most B1/B2 refusals at the Colombo Embassy come down to one failure: not convincingly demonstrating ties to Sri Lanka and a clear intention to return — not genuine ineligibility. The officers are not looking to refuse you; they are assessing whether the evidence you present answers that single question. If it does, you leave approved. For a full overview of requirements before you reach the interview stage, see our US visitor visa guide for Sri Lankans.