The US Embassy in India announced on Monday that it has opened 250,000 new visa appointments for Indian travelers, including tourists, students, and skilled workers.
“The new slots will allow Indian applicants to schedule timely interviews, enhancing travel that strengthens US-India ties,” the US Mission to India stated. The mission noted that it has surpassed one million nonimmigrant visa applications for the second year in a row.
Record Visa Processing and Travel Growth
During the recent student visa season, the US processed a record number of applications, ensuring all first-time students got appointments at consular sections across India. The mission is now focused on reuniting families, facilitating business, and boosting tourism. More than 1.2 million Indians have traveled to the US in 2024, marking a 35% increase from the same period in 2023.
According to the US Embassy, six million Indians already hold nonimmigrant visas, and thousands more are issued daily.
Strengthening US-India Relations
The Embassy emphasized that the US-India partnership is stronger than ever. The US Senate has designated September 30 as “US-India Partnership Day” to recognize the two nations’ growing ties. US Ambassador Eric Garcetti noted that visa processing improvements reflect goals set by Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden.
During his recent US visit, Modi announced India will open new consulates in Boston and Los Angeles.
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