Mumbai: In a remarkable achievement, the US embassies across India have granted more than 1.4 lakh visas to Indian citizens this year, surpassing last year’s numbers. Although the exact figures have not been fully disclosed, the visa issuance in 2023 has set a new record for the US.
The US embassy has announced the opening of 2.5 lakh additional visa appointments for Indian travellers, including tourists, skilled workers, and students. This increase in appointments aims to meet the growing demand from Indians aspiring to travel, study, or seek medical treatment abroad. The new visa slots will help more people secure visa interviews and continue their travel plans to the US.
On 30 September 2024, the US embassy commented, “During our student visa season this (2024) summer, we processed record numbers, and all first-time student applicants were able to obtain an appointment at one of our five consular sections around India.”
US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, expressed his pride in the team’s efforts, stating, “Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden set an ambitious goal to improve and expedite the visa process and I’m proud to say that we have delivered on that promise.” He also highlighted the tireless work of the US consular teams across embassies and consulates, ensuring that the surge in demand is met efficiently.
US visas in 2023
In 2023, the US consular team in India issued a record 1.4 lakh visas, more than any other country in the world. The visa processing centres in Mumbai, New Delhi, Hyderabad, and Chennai are among the top four globally in terms of volume, reflecting the massive demand for US visas from Indian students, workers, and tourists.
Indian students, in particular, form a significant proportion of the international student community in the US, making up a quarter of all international students pursuing graduate studies. This trend continues to strengthen the educational and cultural ties between India and the United States, with US visa appointments catering to this ever-growing demand.
With the increase in visa appointment slots and the record-breaking issuance of visas, the US embassy has ensured smoother processing for Indian travellers, offering new opportunities for students, skilled workers, and tourists to explore the United States.
US embassies in India set a new record by issuing over 1.4 lakh American visas in 2023. The embassy has opened an additional 2.5 lakh visa appointments to meet the rising demand from Indian students, workers, and tourists. Biz News Business News – Personal Finance News, Share Market News, BSE/NSE News, Stock Exchange News Today