US-India Relations Strengthen as Visa Processing Speeds Up

Indians applying for US visas can sigh with relief as US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti has pledged to swifter processing of visa requests. The US Mission in India is now processing more visas than ever before, according to a statement issued by Garcetti, and it anticipates issuing 1 million visas to Indian citizens this year.

“We know that Indians have a strong desire to travel to the United States, and we are committed to making the visa process as smooth and efficient as possible," Garcetti said. "We are working hard to reduce wait times and increase the availability of appointments."

Many Indians who have been waiting months for their visa applications to be approved are relieved by the announcement. The US government's endeavor to strengthen ties with India includes expediting the processing of visa applications. The US is also considering recognizing India as a "major defense partner," granting India access to more sophisticated US military equipment.

Additional updates:

Due to operational constraints and local conditions, the US Embassy and Consulates in India are only now accepting appointments for all types of visas.

All immigrant visa services at the US Consulate in Mumbai are once again available. The U.S. Embassy in New Delhi and the consulates in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai still only offer a few routine nonimmigrant services.