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Frustrated by year-long delays? Discover how Indian tourists are bypassing lengthy waits for U.S. visas by exploring international consulates. Uncover the fastest routes to your American dream.
Indian travellers planning to visit the United States are facing unprecedented delays in securing visa appointments. With visa wait times exceeding a year at U.S. consulates in India, many applicants are exploring international alternatives where visa slots are available within days.
Current U.S. Visa Wait Times in India
For those applying for B1 (business) or B2 (tourist) visas, the visa wait times at major U.S. consulates in India are alarmingly long:
• Mumbai – 444 days
• New Delhi – 442 days
• Chennai – 436 days
• Hyderabad – 429 days
• Kolkata – 415 days
Given these extended delays, Indian travelers are increasingly opting to apply for their U.S. visas at international consulates where processing times are significantly shorter.
Applying for a U.S. Visa Abroad
Indian travelers aren’t limited to applying for a US visa in India. The advantage? You can schedule your visa appointment at U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, often with much shorter wait times.
If you’re already planning an international trip, consider booking your U.S. visa interview at your destination for a quicker and more convenient process.
Top Destinations for Faster U.S. Visa Appointments
Several U.S. consulates abroad offer visa interview slots within a matter of days, making them attractive alternatives for Indian applicants. Here are some of the fastest options:
• Hanoi, Vietnam – 2 days
• Kuwait – 4 days
• Hong Kong – 7 days
• Phnom Penh, Cambodia – 7 days
• Baku, Azerbaijan – 9 days
• Riyadh, Saudi Arabia – 10 days
• Tokyo, Japan – 11 days
• Seoul, South Korea – 11 days
• Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – 14 days
• Singapore – 15 days
• Frankfurt – 25 days
• Bangkok – 31 Days
However, not all international consulates guarantee quicker processing—Colombo (114 days), Kathmandu (221 days), and Abu Dhabi (433 days) still have extended delays.
Things to Consider When Applying for a U.S. Visa Abroad
Applying for a U.S. visa at an international consulate can be a viable solution, but it comes with its own set of considerations. Here’s what Indian travelers should keep in mind:
1. Eligibility Criteria
• While non-residents can apply for a U.S. visa in a third country, they must justify their choice.
• Consular officers may ask for a valid reason, such as excessive wait times in India.
2. Essential Documents
Ensure you carry the following when applying abroad:
• DS-160 confirmation
• Appointment letter
• Financial proof (such as bank statements or tax returns)
• Supporting travel records (such as past visas or itineraries)
3. Processing Time & Additional Interviews
• Some consulates may require additional processing time, so plan for potential follow-up appointments.
• Be prepared for additional scrutiny, especially if applying outside your home country.
Stay Updated on Changing Visa Wait Times
U.S. visa wait times fluctuate based on demand and staffing levels at consulates worldwide. Before making any travel plans, check the latest updates on the U.S. State Department’s visa appointment website to ensure accurate timelines.
Final Thoughts
While securing a U.S. visa from India is becoming increasingly challenging due to lengthy wait times, international consulates offer a practical alternative for those seeking quicker appointments.
However, travelers must weigh factors like eligibility, documentation requirements, and additional processing times before applying abroad. By planning strategically, Indian travelers can avoid year-long delays and obtain their U.S. visas faster.
Source: https://travelobiz.com/skip-long-us-visa-wait-india-faster-appointments-abroad/
