US Embassy Announces New Changes for B-1/B-2 Visa Interview Waivers

In a recent update, the US Embassy in India has announced significant changes to its visa appointment procedures, particularly concerning B-1/B-2 interview waiver appointments in New Delhi. This move aims to streamline the visa processing system for nonimmigrant B-1/B-2 visitor visas.

What are B-1/B-2 Visas?

B-1/B-2 visas are nonimmigrant visas for individuals intending to temporarily enter the United States for specific purposes. The B-1 visa is for business-related visits, such as meetings or conferences, while the B-2 visa is for tourism or medical treatment.

Applicants can also apply for a combination of both visas (B-1/B-2) to accommodate various travel needs, including both business and leisure activities.

Changes in Procedure

Previously, applicants could schedule their B-1/B-2 interview waiver appointments across various locations. However, the US Embassy has now consolidated these appointments exclusively in New Delhi. This consolidation is part of an ongoing effort to enhance efficiency in visa processing.

How to Submit Applications

Applicants can still submit their application forms at any of the five Visa Application Centers free of cost. Alternatively, they have the option to drop their documents at any US Document Dropoff Center in Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Chandigarh, Cochin, Jalandhar, or Pune for a fee of 850 rupees per application.

Assurances from the Embassy

The Embassy assured eligible applicants that interview waiver appointments would be readily available in New Delhi. However, due to this consolidation, limited interview waiver appointments will be available for visitor visas in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai.

Nonetheless, applicants need not worry as appointments remain accessible in New Delhi for those eligible for the interview waiver process.

Minimal Disruption for Applicants

Addressing concerns about additional travel, the Embassy clarified that applicants will not be required to travel to New Delhi unless they are later found ineligible to use the interview waiver process.

Record Visa Processing Numbers

Highlighting the surge in visa processing, the US Consular Team in India processed a record 1.4 million US visas in 2023, marking a significant increase. This achievement has led to a reduction of visitor visa appointment wait times by 75 per cent.

Growing Demand from Indian Applicants

The Embassy and Consulates in India emphasized the growing number of Indian visa applicants. In 2023 alone, they processed a record-breaking 1.4 million US visas. Demand across all visa classes surged, with Indians representing one out of every ten US visa applicants worldwide.

Improved Processing Times

Visitor visas (B-1/B-2) have rebounded, constituting the second-highest number of applications in the US Mission’s history, exceeding 700,000. Improved processes and increased staffing have significantly reduced appointment wait times for visitor visas from an average of 1,000 days to just 250 days nationwide, with minimal wait times across all categories.

With these changes, the US Embassy aims to enhance the efficiency and accessibility of visa services for applicants across India, ensuring a smoother experience for those planning to visit the United States for various purposes.