US Mission To India Expands Visa Appointments By 250,000 To Boost Travel For Indians - All You Need To Know

In a significant move to address the growing demand for U.S. visas in India, the U.S. Mission has opened an additional 250,000 visa appointments for Indian travellers.

This increase in availability will benefit a wide range of applicants, including tourists, skilled professionals, and students, by ensuring timely interview opportunities.

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US Mission To India Expands Visa Appointments

The expansion highlights the strong people-to-people ties that continue to strengthen the U.S.-India relationship. For the second consecutive year, the U.S. Mission to India has processed over one million nonimmigrant visa applications, reflecting a surge in interest from Indian travellers.

This summer saw a record number of student visas processed, with all first-time student applicants able to secure appointments at one of the five U.S. consular sections in India. The focus now is on reuniting families, supporting business connections, and promoting tourism.

In 2024 alone, over 1.2 million Indians have travelled to the United States, marking a 35% increase compared to the same period in 2023. Currently, more than six million Indians hold valid nonimmigrant visas, and the U.S. Mission issues thousands more daily to meet the rising demand.

U.S. Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, emphasized the importance of this effort, stating, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden set an ambitious goal to enhance and expedite the visa process, and I'm proud to say that we have delivered on that promise. Our consular teams across the embassy and four consulates are working tirelessly to meet the surging demand."

This expansion of visa services underscores the growing ties between India and the U.S., as both countries continue to facilitate easier travel for students, professionals, and families alike.