2025 US Visa Changes: Shorter Wait Times for Indian Applicants Under New Appointment System

US (The Uttam Hindu): Starting January 1, 2025, the US Embassy in India will introduce new rules to simplify and expedite the process of scheduling and rescheduling non-immigrant visa appointments. This move aims to significantly reduce the long wait times that have plagued Indian applicants in recent years. The new system will allow applicants to reschedule their visa appointments once without incurring additional fees. However, if the rescheduled appointment is missed or needs to be changed again, applicants will have to book a new appointment and pay the application fee once more.

This announcement follows closely on the heels of a separate measure by the US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to modernize the H-1B visa program. The changes set to take effect on January 17, 2025, will speed up the visa approval process enabling US employers to fill critical job vacancies more efficiently. The reforms also provide more flexibility for employers to retain skilled workers particularly benefiting Indian applicants, who represent the largest group of H-1B visa holders. Both the new appointment system and the H-1B visa overhaul are seen as positive moves for Indians seeking to work and travel in the US, aiming to address the current long wait times.

Currently, the wait times for B1/B2 visitor visas in major Indian cities are staggering with Mumbai at 438 days, Chennai at 479 days, Delhi at 441 days, Kolkata at 436 days, and Hyderabad at 429 days. Student visa wait times are also significant, ranging from 106 to 193 days depending on the city. The new appointment rules, however, are expected to make the process faster and more efficient. The US Embassy emphasized that applicants should attend their scheduled appointments to avoid delays.

In addition, the new H-1B rules will benefit Indian students on F-1 visas by easing their transition into the H-1B program further facilitating their opportunities to stay and work in the US. The dual announcements are being hailed as a major step forward in addressing the challenges faced by Indian applicants and streamlining the US visa process for both visitors and workers.