Making travel plans from India to the US? There have been huge swings in the wait durations for US visa interview appointments in Indian consulates. Find out how long the waits are for the various visa types and whether you are eligible for expedited appointments.
Many people have long wanted to visit the United States, but getting a visa interview appointment in India is now a major challenge. The wait for a US visa interview appointment has reached close to 1,000 days at some Indian consulates.
According to the newest data from the US Department of State-Bureau of Consular Affairs, there is hope for those travelers who can arrange appointments within a week or two.
Differing Wait Times Between Categories:
Visas for B1/B2 categories
The wait period for B1/B2 visa applicants in Chennai is just one calendar day, compared to 16 days in Delhi. While other consulates are reporting a painful 999-day wait, Kolkata has a startling projected waiting period of 440 days.
The fact that the US has expanded the interview waiver facility to additional non-immigrant visa applicants is a positive move. This implies that travelers falling under the B1/B2 categories can now book a visa interview appointment at the US consulate in Chennai within six days.
These visas cater to individuals seeking temporary entry into the US for business (B1) tourism (B2), or a combination of both.
C, D, C1, D Category Visas
Travelers in Hyderabad can schedule appointments in just one calendar day for visas in the C, D, C1, or D categories, which are primarily intended for non-immigrants operating aboard commercial maritime vessels.
Even applicants who need interviews (even those in these groups who qualify for interview waivers) can anticipate getting an appointment the same day.
Student Visas
Visitors on exchange programs and those seeking US student visas must wait in different ways. The waiting time for these candidates is 64 days according to the US embassy in Chennai, whereas it is 325 days at the consulate in Hyderabad.
These wait times are subject to change based on demand and administrative processes. Aspiring travellers are advised to monitor the US Department of State-Bureau of Consular Affairs website regularly for updates.
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US embassy in India working to reduce visa wait times
For all types of applicants, the US embassy in India is aiming to shorten the wait times for visas. The embassy declared recently that it is “committed to providing timely and efficient visa services to all applicants.”
The embassy has taken a variety of actions to shorten wait periods, including boosting the number of interview slots available and staffing levels. In order to shorten wait periods for B1/B2 visa applicants, the embassy has also expanded the interview waiver option to more non-immigrant visa applicants.
Tips for reducing your US visa wait time
If you are planning to apply for a US visa, there are a few things you can do to reduce your wait time:
- Apply early. The earlier you apply, the more likely you are to get an appointment sooner.
- Be flexible with your travel dates. If you are able to travel during the off-season, you are more likely to get an appointment sooner.
- Consider applying at a different consulate. The wait times for visa appointments can vary depending on the consulate. If you are able to travel to a different consulate, you may be able to get an appointment sooner.
- Check the US embassy website regularly for updates on visa wait times and availability.
Conclusion
Depending on the type of visa, there are different wait times for US visas in India. However, the US embassy is making an effort to shorten the wait times for all applicant types. There are a few things you may do to shorten the wait period if you intend to apply for a US visa.
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