Indian travellers dreaming of the American experience are facing an uphill battle when it comes to securing a US visa. Despite a record number of visas issued in 2023, processing times at many Indian consulates have skyrocketed, leaving hopeful visitors and business travellers in a state of uncertainty.
Kolkata Consulate: A Beacon of Hope
For Indian travellers eyeing a U.S. visa, Kolkata has become the most efficient option, offering a significantly shorter wait time than other U.S. consulates in India. While other consulates are grappling with delays that extend to nearly 477 days, Kolkata stands out with a processing time of just 24 days for B1/B2 visa appointments.
Efforts to Tackle Visa Delays Show Results
Over the past year, the U.S. has taken steps to address rising visa wait times. Despite the challenges, these measures have led to noticeable improvements.
In 2023, a record 1.4 million visas were issued to Indian applicants, contributing to a substantial 75% reduction in visitor visa appointment wait times. Yet, inconsistencies remain across different U.S. consulates in India.
Understanding B1/B2 Visas
To clarify, a B1 visa is for business travellers, while a B2 visa is for tourists, visitors, and those seeking medical treatment. The commonly issued B1/B2 visa allows holders to engage in both business and leisure activities during their US stay.
B1/B2 Visa Wait Times Across India
Visa wait times for B1/B2 visas still vary significantly across U.S. consulates in India. As of now, the wait times are as follows:
Kolkata’s 24-day waiting period offers a significant advantage to both business and leisure travellers. Meanwhile, Chennai’s prolonged wait of 477 days is the longest in the country, followed closely by Mumbai, Hyderabad, and Delhi.
H-1B Lottery: Second Chance for Aspirants
In a separate development offering some relief to visa hopefuls, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has announced a second lottery selection process for H-1B visas for the fiscal year 2025. This decision comes after the initial lottery in March failed to meet the quota
While this is good news for many H-1B applicants, it’s important to note that the second lottery will only be for the regular cap and not the advanced degree exemption.
A Challenging Visa Landscape
The combination of long visa wait times and the complexities of the H-1B lottery highlights the challenges faced by those seeking to travel or work in the United States. As the situation evolves, travellers and businesses alike are closely monitoring developments and adjusting their plans accordingly.
