Most H1B visa holders who are making plans to do their stamping in India are going through a similar scenario – VAC ( biometrics) appointment is possible in one city, but the consular (interview) appointment opens up earlier in another. For instance, obtaining the VAC appointment in Hyderabad, but the interview appointment in Delhi.
This arrangement may be seen as odd but is permissible. America’s visa process in India allows candidates to select various venues for biometric and interview schedules, provided that both are booked in advance.
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Some candidates have already achieved this – obtaining their VAC appointment in one city, and then going to a different city for the interview for a visa. There are no reported problems or rejections due to the mus-match of cities, provided both appointments are available and attended.
The flexibility is convenient, particularly now when appointment slots are few and far between and difficult to find within the same city. But it does add travel planning and expenses, so candidates must be prepared for that.
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For those making their stamping date reservations, this is a convenient option where time is critical. Just ensure that both appointments are booked and have buffer space between the two, particularly where flights or trains are involved.
