How Much Time Does It Take to Get a US Visa?

The time it takes to get a US visa varies depending on the type of visa and the applicant's location. Here’s a breakdown:

1. Form Processing Time: After submitting your DS-160 form (for non-immigrant visas) or DS-260 form (for immigrant visas), it takes 1-2 days to receive confirmation.

2. Appointment Wait Time: This varies by location and visa type. For non-immigrant visas, wait times for appointments can range from a few days to several months, depending on the embassy or consulate. For immigrant visas, the wait time is typically longer, often several months to years.

3. Visa Interview: After the appointment, most applicants have their visa interview on the same day.

4. Processing After Interview: If approved, the visa is usually processed and delivered within 5-10 business days. However, if administrative processing is required, it can take weeks or months.

5. Expedited Processing: In emergency situations, expedited appointments may be requested, but approval is not guaranteed.

To check specific wait times, visit the US State Department's Visa Appointment Wait Times website.