Applicants prove the existence of such residence by demonstrating that they have ties abroad that would compel them to leave the U.S. at the end of the temporary stay. The law places this burden of proof on the applicant. Our consular officers have a difficult job. They must decide in a very short time if someone is qualified to receive a temporary visa. Most cases are decided after a brief interview and review of whatever evidence of ties an applicant presents.
Strong ties differ from country to country, city to city, individual to individual.
Some examples of ties can be a job, a house, a family, a bank account. As a U.S. citizen or legal permanent resident, imagine your own ties in the United States. Each person's situation is different. Our consular officers are aware of this diversity. During the visa interview they look at each application individually and consider professional, social, cultural and other factors.