Waiting for a visitor visa is one of the most important parts of travel. In a recent update, Indian travellers planning a holiday in the United States, the wait for a visa appointment has significantly risen in several cities. As per the US Department of State’s official visa appointment wait-time estimates, waiting periods vary across Indian consulates and can change as new appointment slots become available.As per latest figures, Hyderabad recorded a 12-month wait for the next available B-1/B-2 appointment, while Mumbai has seen an improvement to 11.5 months. Similarly, waiting periods are different for New Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata.Here’s a consolidated US visa appointment wait times in India:City-wise breakdown
Visa appointment shortages, long green-card waits and the H-1B six-year limit are making some Indian professionals ask a difficult question
As per updates, next available B-1/B-2 appointment at the following consulars are:
- Hyderabad12 months
- Mumbai11.5 months
- New Delhi10 months
- Chennai7.5 months
- Kolkata6.5 months
Note: US Department of State, Global Visa Wait Times. The figures are estimates, not guaranteed appointment dates.What does this mean for travellers planning a US holiday?For those hoping to explore the United States, the appointment backlog makes advance planning important. A family planning a wedding, a couple planning a winter vacay in New York, or a photographer wanting to explore the national parks of America in a particular season may need to account for the visa interview schedule well before booking flights and accommodation.Understanding B-1/B-2 visaThe B-1/B-2 visa covers two broad categories of temporary travel.The B-1 category is intended for eligible business visitsThe B-2 covers tourism, holidays, visits to friends and relatives, and certain medical visits.How can applicants check for an earlier appointment?
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The US Department of State says embassies and consulates release additional appointment slots regularly. Applicants who have already scheduled an interview can revisit the appointment system to check whether an earlier date has become available.Some practical steps for travellers:
- Begin early: Start the visa application process much ahead of the intended holiday.
- Check the official wait-time page: Keep checking the official updates for Hyderabad, Mumbai, New Delhi, Chennai and Kolkata
- Monitor the scheduling system: Appointment availability can change as new slots are released.
- Avoid non-refundable bookings: Do not assume that an appointment estimate guarantees a particular travel date.
For now Indian travellers dreaming of an American holiday, the wait might be a little longer. Keep checking the latest official visa appointment updates.
