U.S. Embassy in Korea: "Be Honest When Applying for Visa or ESTA... 'False Information' May Lead to Entry Ban"

by Son Seonhee

Published 21 Apr.2025 16:35(KST)

The U.S. Embassy in Korea on April 21 urged, "Honesty is the best policy when applying for a U.S. visa or filling out an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) application," warning that "providing false information may result in being banned from entering the United States." This repeated visa-related notice from the embassy comes as the Trump administration's second term pursues policies to block illegal immigration and promote anti-immigration measures.

U.S. Embassy in Korea. Photo by Moon Honam

On the same day, the embassy announced via social media platform X, "Even minor offenses or any criminal record can result in visa denial or even a permanent ban from entering the United States." The embassy further stated, "Consular officers will review your criminal history, including any past violations or arrest records," adding, "Please ensure that all answers on your application and during your interview are truthful."

Previously, on April 14, the embassy posted a notice stating, "If you overstay your authorized period of stay in the United States even once, you may be permanently barred from traveling to the U.S., or even if you previously qualified for the Visa Waiver Program, it may become difficult to obtain a visa in the future." The embassy emphasized, "Consular officers and immigration authorities can verify whether you have overstayed your permitted period," and stressed, "It is your responsibility to comply with the regulations."