sealing arrest record got denied, will that affect f1 visa renewal?

[aoringo]

Hi,

I am a F1 Chinese student on my 4th year of PhD in California. In early April this year, I had a fight with my girlfriend and our neighbor called the police due to the noise. Later the police came and arrested me for domestic battery because my girlfriend admitted that I pushed her once during our fight. Later the case was discharged by the DA. Also, after the case was discharged, I had a sealing company to seal my arrest record, Unfortunately, today I was told that the court denied to seal my arrest record due to lack of evidence proving my innocence. 

I am planning to go back to China in late April and need to get my F1 student visa renewed. My questions are:

1) will the denial of sealing my arrest record will negatively affect my F1 visa renewal?

2) When I go to the f1 visa renewal interview at the embassy, will the office be able to see the record that the judge denied to seal my arrest record?

Thanks a lot!

[pontevecchio]

You have to mention arrests and the disposition. Was the charge dismissed? Did you have a Lawyer? In any case discuss the matter with the firm of Murthy or any of your choice before you leave.

[JoeF]

Even if it was sealed, it is NEVER sealed for immigration.

It could affect things.

You need to discuss your particular situation with a good immigration lawyer.

[jairichi]

Whether sealing of record is successful or not it is always possible for immigration officials to see all your past records. Carry all your court documents when you go for interview and answer truthfully.