US visa delays extend wait time to over one year

The United States is experiencing unprecedented delays in visa processing across all categories, with appointment wait times now exceeding a year in several regions. This development is affecting a broad spectrum of applicants, including tourists, business travelers, and students.

Extended Wait Times and Stricter Policies

According to a report by The Economic Times, visa appointment availability in western regions of India is now stretching to nearly 18 months, with other regions like the North, East, and South facing delays of around one year. In addition to prolonged wait times, the U.S. has implemented stricter policies:

• Applicants who miss their scheduled appointments are now barred from booking a new one for 120 days.
• Since January 1, 2025, the option to reschedule appointments has been limited to once, down from the previous allowance of two reschedules.

These measures have compounded the challenges faced by visa seekers, many of whom are now exploring alternative avenues to obtain their visas.

Applicants Seeking Appointments Abroad

The extended delays have led some applicants to seek visa appointments in other countries where processing times are shorter. For instance, individuals with urgent travel needs are flying to countries like Singapore and Thailand to secure appointments, as these locations offer more timely processing. Himanshu Patil, director of Kesari Tours and president of the Outbound Tour Operators Association of India, noted that applicants are taking such measures due to the lack of timely appointments in India.

Impact on Travel and Business

The delays are not only affecting individual travel plans but also have broader implications for business and education. Kapil Jain, co-founder and CEO of Fly Divine Travels, observed that rejection rates have increased, even for applicants with solid documentation. This trend is causing uncertainty and frustration among those planning to travel to the U.S. for various purposes.

Conclusion

The current state of U.S. visa processing presents significant challenges for applicants across categories. With wait times exceeding a year and stricter rescheduling policies in place, many are compelled to seek alternative solutions, including applying from other countries. These developments underscore the need for prospective travelers to plan well in advance and stay informed about the evolving visa policies.