Can I apply for a US Visa with a pending FIR of 498 A

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Your situation involves two separate risk areas: immigration outcome and professional/employment impact. Since there is no arrest, no chargesheet, and no conviction, your case is still at a preliminary stage, which is important for visa analysis. Effect on US L1B visa For an L1B visa, the primary checks are immigration eligibility, employer sponsorship, and background/security screening. A mere pending FIR without arrest or conviction does not automatically disqualify you. However: US visa forms (DS-160) ask about arrests and convictions, not mere FIRs. Since you were never arrested or convicted, technically you may answer accordingly, but facts must be absolutely truthful. During background/security checks, if the case appears (rare but possible), the officer may ask for explanation and documents such as FIR copy, status report, and proof of no arrest. A pending matrimonial case like IPC 498A is generally viewed as a private dispute, not a crime of moral turpitude unless conviction occurs. Therefore, risk of refusal exists but is not very high in absence of arrest/chargesheet/conviction. Timing of application Legally, you can apply now. Many applicants obtain visas with pending matrimonial disputes. However, stronger position arises if: You obtain interim protection (no coercive action / stay) from the High Court, or FIR is quashed, or Chargesheet is not filed for long period If your quashing petition before the Delhi High Court is likely to be decided soon, waiting may slightly reduce risk, but it is not mandatory. Risk to your employment Visa refusal normally does not automatically affect your current job. However practical aspects: If your company is sponsoring L1B, refusal becomes known to employer. Some multinational firms conduct internal background checks; non-disclosure may create HR trust issues if later discovered. A simple refusal under administrative/immigration grounds usually does not harm employment, but concealment of material facts sometimes can. for more details kindly check your WhatsApp I've sent a detailed message. thankyou

Advocate Vaibhav Sangam Mishra LawRato