The US Embassy in India has announced the opening of 250,000 additional visa appointments for Indian travelers, including tourists, skilled workers, and students. This initiative aims to address the increasing demand for US visas and facilitate timely interviews for applicants.
According to the embassy, these new slots will enhance the people-to-people connections between the US and India. The US Mission has already processed over one million non-immigrant visa applications for the second consecutive year. During this summer’s student visa season, a record number of applications were processed, ensuring that all first-time student applicants received appointments at one of the five consular sections in India.
So far in 2024, more than 1.2 million Indians have traveled to the US, reflecting a 35% increase compared to the same period last year. Additionally, approximately six million Indians currently hold non-immigrant visas to visit the US, with thousands more being issued daily.
US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti remarked, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden set an ambitious goal to improve and expedite the visa process, and I’m proud to say we’ve delivered on that promise. Our consular teams work tirelessly to meet this surging demand.”
The embassy has also implemented various measures to improve service efficiency, including opening on Saturdays to accommodate over 1,000 visitor visa applicants. While some applicants have experienced challenges in scheduling appointments, the increased availability of slots is expected to significantly reduce wait times.
