I've tried really hard to avoid replying in this thread as I have some further thoughts on the matter, but I'm going to keep it limited.
Originally Posted by
Ghoulish
that wouldn't have been the case in less than 2 days
But unfortunately "what would have been the case in less than 2 days" doesn't matter. Its the regulations that are in effect on the specified date/time, not what it's going to be. Do we also say to the airlines "well this fare in less than 2 days after I want to fly is $500 cheaper, so just give it to me on the day I want?" or "in less than 2 days I don't need a VISA, so just let me fly today without showing I've obtained a VISA"
Originally Posted by
prestonh
It still seems like the visa was not authentic, which is why I asked if you verified it before travel. The immigration officer said as much on your arrival.
And the OP already told us where they have already identified where fault lies for this situation
Originally Posted by
donjo
I have asked her to look into it, and she replied that the visa was appropriately filled out but she had not filed it with the correct authorities.
So that being said, I'm really confused why this is related to United at all, continues to be discussed in the UA forum and whether they were right or wrong in the situation, beyond the fact that they were the carrier who was transporting the passenger. This is ultimately a VISA/immigration issue and the situation would have been the same regardless if it was UA, AA, DL or even ANA who transported the passenger. Except they might have actually charged the passenger the cost of the airfare for the return. If anything OP should be grateful they didn't have any more out of pocket expenses for what was a massive mistake, as they have indicated, by their tour agency.