Relief For U.S. Visitors: New Visa Slots in 3 Cities

It is the holiday season, and many families would want to fly to the US to enjoy the lights and sounds and, of course, a white Christmas. In a move to facilitate easy travel, the American consulates in India have opened a number of slots for B1/ B2 visa applicants. However, it is useful for those who are eligible for interview waivers for December in Mumbai, Delhi, and Chennai.

The US Embassy has tweeted asking people to book now in time for holiday visas. As of now, the wait time for an appointment is 233 days in Delhi, 297 days in Mumbai, and 171 days in Chennai. However, the applicants can opt for an interview waiver if they are renewing any visa, including B1/B2, within 48 months of expiration.

On the other hand, for first-time applicants, the wait time is now almost three years, especially for those who are not eligible for an interview waiver. To address growing backlogs, the US has made applicants eligible for interview waivers, sending dropbox cases abroad for adjudication, and getting temporary staffers.

Meanwhile, a top priority is being given to students, expediting dropbox cases for skilled workers, repeat B1/ B2 visa seekers, and crew. However, despite the measures, it is likely to take several months for interview wait time to drop.