US Embassy India has announced some great news for travellers looking to renew their US visa
Good news for travelers looking to renew their US visa! The US Embassy in India has announced that those with “clearance received” or “department authorization” on their previous visas can now use the interview waiver process to apply for a new visa. This new update is part of the Department of State’s ongoing efforts to make the visa application process more efficient and streamlined.
To be eligible for the interview waiver process, applicants must be renewing their visa in the same category within 48 months of expiration. Additionally, consular officers are authorized to waive the in-person interview requirement for travelers applying for F, H-1, H-3, H-4, non-blanket L, M, O, P, Q, and academic J visas, who were previously issued any type of visa, provided they are applying for a visa in their country of nationality or residence.
However, this authorization does not apply to applicants who have a previous refusal that was not subsequently waived or overcome. Adjudicating consular officers may also request an in-person interview if additional information is required from applicants.
For those applying through the interview waiver process, it is important to note that it may take up to three weeks from the time a passport has been accepted at the Visa Application Center until the passport is delivered or they are notified that the passport is ready for pickup. During this period, it will not be possible to withdraw the passport or expedite the processing under any circumstances.