U.S. Expands Visa Appointments to Meet Surging Indian Demand

The U.S. has taken a significant step in strengthening its ties with India by adding 250,000 new visa appointments for Indian travelers. This move, which covers tourist, skilled worker, and student visas, comes in response to the growing number of Indians eager to visit the U.S. So far in 2024, over 1.2 million Indian travelers have visited, marking a remarkable 35% increase compared to last year. Currently, about 6 million Indians hold non-immigrant visas, underscoring the robust travel and work connections between the two countries.

The U.S. Embassy announced that the additional appointment slots will allow many Indian applicants to secure visa interviews more swiftly, ultimately simplifying the process for those looking to travel. In 2023 alone, more than 140,000 student visas were issued to Indian nationals, making India the leading country in terms of student visas to the U.S. With 2024 on track to surpass these numbers, the embassy anticipates an even greater influx.

U.S. Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, commended the U.S. consular teams for their efforts in managing the rising demand for visas. He emphasized the commitment of both nations' leadership to improve the visa application experience.

Indian students now represent over 25% of all international students in the U.S., reflecting the deepening relationship between the two nations. This latest expansion of visa appointments further demonstrates the U.S.'s dedication to making travel and study easier for Indian nationals, fostering stronger connections for the future.