Many Indians are facing a significant challenge when applying for a US tourist vias: securing an appointment. With wait times extending for months, some applicants resort to hiring agents, paying large sums in homes of getting an earlier slot. A couple recently spent INR 30,000 on an agent, only to wait three months for their appointment at the US Embassy in Delhi.
Their biometrics appointment was set for 9.30 AM, but due to Delhi traffic, they arrived ten minutes late. Nevertheless, they were allowed in after waiting an hour outside. Applicants were not permitted to bring phones or bags inside, forcing them to either leave their belongings outside or use paid lockers. The entire process, from fingerprinting to verification, took nearly two hours.
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A week later, they returned to the embassy for their interview, only to encounter another long line. Security was stringent, and electronic devices were not allowed. Inside, a mix-up resulted in one applicant’s passport being lost, leading to further delays and confusion. Applicants had to stand the whole time while officers checked documents and verified information.
The interview began with standard questions, but then the officer asked an unexpected one: “Who is Vivek?” The couple was taken aback, as their agent had provided a random name as their US contact without informing them. The officer also inquired about their travel hostory and finances before ultimately approving their visa.
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Despite the INR 30,000 fee, there was no real benefit in the process. Officially, visa appointments cannot be expedited unless they meet emergency criteria. However, with wait times so long, many continue to take the risk, hoping for a faster resolution.
The process continues to be frustrating and unpredictable, leaving applicants with few options. As more individuals face delays, the core problem isn’t just the lengthy wait times but also the absence of transparency. If the system doesn’t improve, hiring agents may still seem like the only option—even if it doesn’t ensure success.
