us tourist visa from india interview waiver

• India Today
• Business Today
• Reader’s Digest
• Harper's Bazaar
• Brides Today
• Cosmopolitan
• Aaj Tak Campus
• India Today Hindi

US waives in-person interview requirements for many visa applicants in India through Dec 31: American diplomat

The united states has waived in-person interview requirements for many visa applicants at its diplomatic missions in india through december 31 this year..

Listen to Story

The United States has waived in-person interview requirements for many visa applicants, including students and workers, at its diplomatic missions in India through December 31 this year, a senior American diplomat has told Indian community leaders.

These applicants eligible for the waiver are students (F, M, and academic J visas), workers (H-1, H-2, H-3, and individual L visas), Culture and extraordinary ability (O, P, and Q visas).

“This is much-needed support to visa applicants. This would be very helpful to our friends and immediate family members and remove a lot of their concerns and remove inconveniences,” Ajay Jain Bhutoria, South Asian Community Leader and US President Joe Biden’s Advisor for Asian Americans, said after his meeting with Assistant Secretary of State for South Central Asia, Donal Lu.

Bhutoria raised the issue of visas during his meeting with Lu in Silicon Valley in the US state of California on Friday.

ALSO READ: Initial registrations for H-1B visas for fiscal year 2023 to start from March 1

Lu informed that through December 31, of this year, the US Department of State is authorised to waive in-person interview requirements for certain applicants and their qualifying derivatives in various non-immigrant visa classifications.

To be eligible for the expanded interview waiver programme, applicants seeking these visa classifications must have previously been issued any category of US visa; have never been refused a US visa and have no indication of ineligibility or potential visa ineligibility.

They also need to be a resident or national of the country in which they are applying; among other, the State Department said.

The US embassy in New Delhi and its consulates in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai will release more than 20,000 additional waiver (dropbox) appointments for Spring 2022 to allow qualified applicants to make use of the new interview waiver authority, according to a notice posted on the website of the US Embassy in New Delhi.

ALSO READ: 5 visa questions students and parents must ask before immigrating to the US

During the meeting, Bhutoria discussed with Lu to increase people-to people relationships between the US and India. He stressed the importance of both the US and India working closely together in South Central Asia.

“Both India and the US are strong democracies and share democratic values and provide leadership in the Asia Pacific region,” he said.

They also discussed the immense contribution made by the Indian American diaspora and their influential role in digital economic growth, startups and establishing businesses and companies, and contributing to the growth of the US economy.

Assistant Secretary Lu, Bhutoria, Indian American Congressman Ro Khanna also met at the afternoon event to discuss with Afghan community leaders, elected officials the Afghanistan refugee resettlement.

During the meeting, Lu highlighted recent immigration changes, recognising the tremendous opportunities that US work and study offer and the important contributions of international visitors to US communities, campuses, and the economy, the Department of State has streamlined visa processes for many applicants while continuing to protect national security, a media release said.

ALSO READ: Wait for visa appointment to be 'significantly' longer, says US embassy Published By: Arjita Mishra Published On: Feb 27, 2022 --- ENDS ---

Subscribe Now! Get features like

• Latest News
• Entertainment
• Real Estate
• Crick-it: Catch the game
• AP SSC 10th Results LIVE
• Reliance Q4 LIVE
• Election Schedule 2024
• Win iPhone 15
• IPL 2024 Schedule
• IPL Points Table
• IPL Purple Cap
• IPL Orange Cap
• AP Board Results 2024
• The Interview
• Web Stories
• Virat Kohli
• Mumbai News
• Bengaluru News
• Daily Digest

These US visa applicants in India are exempt from in-person interview. Details here

The us department of state, through december 31, is authorised to waive in-person interview requirements for certain applicants and their qualifying derivatives in various non-immigrant visa classifications..

The United States has done away with the requirement of the in-person interview for many visa applicants in India through December 31 this year, a senior American diplomat has reportedly told Indian community leaders.

These applicants eligible for the waiver are students (F, M, and academic J visas), workers (H-1, H-2, H-3, and individual L visas), Culture and extraordinary ability (O, P, and Q visas).

“This is much-needed support to visa applicants. This would be very helpful to our friends and immediate family members and remove a lot of their concerns and remove inconveniences,” Ajay Jain Bhutoria, South Asian Community Leader and US President Joe Biden's Advisor for Asian Americans, said after his meeting with Assistant Secretary of State for South Central Asia, Donal Lu, as reported by PTI.

To be eligible for the expanded interview waiver programme, the news agency reported, applicants must have previously been issued any category of US visa; have never been refused a US visa and have no indication of ineligibility or potential visa ineligibility.

To identify such applicants, the US embassy will release more that 20,000 additional waiver (dropbox) appointments for Spring 2022 in New Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai, the report said.

Join Hindustan Times

Create free account and unlock exciting features like.

• Terms of use
• Privacy policy
• Weather Today
• HT Newsletters
• Subscription
• Print Ad Rates
• Code of Ethics

• Elections 2024
• DC vs SRH Live Score
• India vs England
• T20 World Cup 2024 Schedule
• IPL 2024 Auctions
• T20 World Cup 2024
• Cricket Teams
• Cricket Players
• ICC Rankings
• Cricket Schedule
• Other Cities
• Income Tax Calculator
• Budget 2024
• Petrol Prices
• Diesel Prices
• Silver Rate
• Relationships
• Art and Culture
• Taylor Swift: A Primer
• Telugu Cinema
• Tamil Cinema
• Exam Results
• Competitive Exams
• Board Exams
• BBA Colleges
• Engineering Colleges
• Medical Colleges
• BCA Colleges
• Medical Exams
• Engineering Exams
• Horoscope 2024
• Festive Calendar 2024
• Compatibility Calculator
• The Economist Articles
• Explainer Video
• On The Record
• Vikram Chandra Daily Wrap
• PBKS vs DC Live Score
• KKR vs SRH Live Score
• EPL 2023-24
• ISL 2023-24
• Asian Games 2023
• Public Health
• Economic Policy
• International Affairs
• Climate Change
• Gender Equality
• future tech
• Daily Sudoku
• Daily Crossword
• Daily Word Jumble
• HT Friday Finance
• Explore Hindustan Times
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Subscription - Terms of Use

For visitors, travel, student and other international travel medical insurance.

Home » Visas » US Visa India » Non-immigrant Visa Interview Waiver

Non-immigrant Visa Interview Waiver for India

Under US visa interview waiver program, certain repeat travelers do not need to appear for in person interview at the US Consulate/Embassy as long as certain conditions as listed below are met.

Eligibility

The following classes of people qualify for Interview Waiver Program “Drop box” program. You don’t need to visit a VAC for fingerprinting, either.

• You are applying for visa in any of the A1, A2, C2, C3, G1, G2, G3, or G4 categories
• You are over the age of 80 years 
• You have not been previously found ineligible for a US visa 
• You are under the age of 14 years 
• Either of your parents have a valid visa in the same visa category in which you (the child) are applying
• The previous US visa you have/had is in the same visa class as the one you wish to renew. 
• Your previous visa was issued in India. 
• You have no refusals for a visa in any category after your most recent visa issuance. 
• Your most recent visa (in the same visa class for which you are applying) was issued on or after your 14 th  birthday. 
• Your prior visa in the same classification is still valid or expired within last 12 months  Note: Blanket L visa does not qualify. However, Blanket L2 spouses are eligible.
• Your most recent visa (in the same visa class for which you are applying) was not lost or stolen 
• Your prior visa is not annotated “Clearance Received” or “Department Authorization”
• You received your visa after January 1, 2008. 
• You are applying for F visa, and you are continuing as a student at the same school for which the previous visa was issued.
• If you are applying for J visa, the current DS-2019 is issued by the same institution as the institution listed on the previous visa.

Application Procedure

Look at US visa application procedure . 

• Follow steps 1, 2, 3, and 4, which includes determination, application form, create a profile, and visa fees. See more about visa fee payment options in India here .
• Your current  passport  
• Your previous passport, if it contains your current or most recent visa 
• One copy of the submission letter 
• One  photograph  taken within the last six months.  Do not submit the same photograph that appeared on your last visa.
• J2 applicants:  Copy of DS-2019 
• H4 and L2 applicants: Copy of I-797 and primary applicant’s visa 
• C1D applicants: Copy of joining letter and original CDC 
• Child applicants should submit photocopies of either of their parents’ valid visas in the same category in which the child is applying
• Take the “drop box” package along with the second print out of the document check list to one of the  visa application centers . They will check your document checklist before they accept your application for delivery to the US Embassy/Consulate.

In case any additional information is required for processing your application, you will be contacted by email.

If your visa is issued, please look at step 8 at at  US visa application procedure

However, please note that there is no guarantee that a visa will be issued. After reviewing an application, the US Embassy/Consulate may require you to appear in person in some cases.

The average processing time is three weeks.

How useful was this post?

Click on a star to rate it!

We are sorry that this post was not useful for you!

Let us improve this post!

Tell us how we can improve this post?

• Medical Insurance Read/Post Experiences Sample Documents GC/Visa Tracker

Share this article:

Visa Application

U.s. consulates.

• Visitor Visa
• Visitors Insurance
• Read Experiences
• Discussions Forums
• Insurance Resources
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use

immihelp ® .com is private non-lawyer web site. Not affiliated with any government agency.

Copyright © 1999-2024 immihelp ® .com. All rights reserved.

https://www.immihelp.com/visa-interview-waiver-drop-box-for-us-visa-in-india/

This website uses cookies, some of which are essential for the functionality of the website while others are for improving user experience and personalization. By continuing to browse this website, you agree to our use of cookies. For information about your privacy, please read our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use .

• You Are At:

US waives in-person interview requirements for many visa applicants in India through December

The US embassy in New Delhi and its consulates in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai will release more than 20,000 additional waiver (dropbox) appointments for Spring 2022 to allow qualified applicants to make use of the new interview waiver authority.

• The United States has waived in-person interview requirements for many visa applicants.
• These applicants eligible for the waiver are students and workers among others.
• A senior American diplomat has told Indian community leaders of the development on Sunday.

These applicants eligible for the waiver are students (F, M, and academic J visas), workers (H-1, H-2, H-3, and individual L visas), Culture and extraordinary ability (O, P, and Q visas).

“This is much-needed support to visa applicants. This would be very helpful to our friends and immediate family members and remove a lot of their concerns and remove inconveniences,” Ajay Jain Bhutoria, South Asian Community Leader and US President Joe Biden's Advisor for Asian Americans, said after his meeting with Assistant Secretary of State for South Central Asia, Donal Lu.

Bhutoria raised the issue of visas during his meeting with Lu in Silicon Valley in the US state of California on Friday.

Lu informed that through December 31, of this year, the US Department of State is authorised to waive in-person interview requirements for certain applicants and their qualifying derivatives in various non-immigrant visa classifications.

To be eligible for the expanded interview waiver programme, applicants seeking these visa classifications must have previously been issued any category of US visa; have never been refused a US visa and have no indication of ineligibility or potential visa ineligibility.

They also need to be a resident or national of the country in which they are applying; among other, the State Department said.

The US embassy in New Delhi and its consulates in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai will release more than 20,000 additional waiver (dropbox) appointments for Spring 2022 to allow qualified applicants to make use of the new interview waiver authority, according to a notice posted on the website of the US Embassy in New Delhi.

During the meeting, Bhutoria discussed with Lu to increase people-to people relationships between the US and India.

He stressed the importance of both the US and India working closely together in South Central Asia.

“Both India and the US are strong democracies and share democratic values and provide leadership in the Asia Pacific region,” he said.

They also discussed the immense contribution made by the Indian American diaspora and their influential role in digital economic growth, startups and establishing businesses and companies, and contributing to the growth of the US economy.

Assistant Secretary Lu, Bhutoria, Indian American Congressman Ro Khanna also met at the afternoon event to discuss with Afghan community leaders, elected officials the Afghanistan refugee resettlement.

During the meeting, Lu highlighted recent immigration changes, recognising the tremendous opportunities that US work and study offer and the important contributions of international visitors to US communities, campuses, and the economy, the Department of State has streamlined visa processes for many applicants while continuing to protect national security, a media release said.

Also Read:  H-1B visa registrations for FY23 to start from March 1, say US officials

Read all the breaking news live on indiatvnews.com and get latest english news & updates from india.

• visa application
• u.s. visa policy

Weather Update: Heatwave conditions to prevail till April 26 in several regions, predicts IMD

'I am overflowing with joy': Singer Usha Uthup after receiving Padma Bhushan award

Sunil Narine confirms no U-turn from international retirement despite stupendous IPL 2024

Related India News

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: PM Modi to address rally in Chhattisgarh, Priyanka Gandhi in Bengaluru

BJP's Mukesh Dalal wins Surat unopposed: List of LS candidates who have won unopposed till now

Chunav Flashback: What happened in Amethi 1991 election following Rajiv Gandhi's assassination?

Lok Sabha Elections: Congress releases new list of seven candidates, 5 for Bihar, 2 for Punjab

Latest News

'Special assignment': Pakistan's former PM Nawaz Sharif heads to China on 'private visit'

Mukhtar Ansari death: Viscera test rejects 'murder' allegation as no poison found in forensic report

Arvind Kejriwal administered insulin in Tihar jail after rise in sugar level, say sources

• Aap Ki Adalat
• Aaj Ki Baat
• Kurukshetra
• Haqiqat Kya Hai
• Entertainment

Aaj Ki Baat: Where is Congress's vision...where are people's properties?

Haqiqat Kya Hai: Did Modi get guarantee from Rahul's manifesto?

Bike Reporter: Banke Bihari's grace...Hema Malini once again?

Coffee Par Kurukshetra: Why do Hindus and Muslims come during elections?

Lok Sabha Election 2024: BJP's Sukanta Majumdar to face TMC's Biplab Mitra | Balurghat | Hot Seat

• Maharashtra
• Uttar Pradesh
• Madhya Pradesh
• West Bengal
• Jammu & Kashmir
• Chhattisgarh

Congress moves to EC against PM Modi over his 'infiltrator' remarks during rally in Rajasthan

Lok Sabha Election FAQs: What happens if candidate dies after polling of votes and before results?

• Constituencies
• Key Candidates

Lok Sabha Elections 2024: BJP moves EC against Yathindra Siddaramaiah for his 'frivolous' remarks

Rahul Gandhi hostage of Leftist ideology, BJP will sweep Madhya Pradesh: Shivraj Singh | EXCLUSIVE

CSK vs LSG, IPL 2024 pitch report: How will surface at MA Chidambaram Stadium in Chennai play?

CSK vs LSG, IPL 2024 Dream11 prediction: Best picks for Chennai Super Kings vs Lucknow Super Giants

Mumbai Indians long wait for win in Jaipur continues as Yashasvi Jaiswal guides RR to victory

RR vs MI IPL 2024 Highlights: Yashasvi Jaiswal's century guides Rajasthan Royals to clinical win

'Will ignore EU Court's human rights blocking': Sunak as Parliament approves Rwanda deportation bill

Taiwan hit by more than 80 earthquakes in less than 24 hours, several buildings damaged I VIDEO

Trump hush money trial: Prosecutors say former US President corrupted 2016 election I KEY TAKEAWAYS

US: Two students from Telangana die in car crash in Arizona; families seek Centre's help

• Celebrities

Rajneeti to Family Man: 5 Films that proves Manoj Bajpayee's acting prowess | Birthday Special

After Aamir Khan and Ranveer Singh, Allu Arjun falls victim to Deepfake video | WATCH

Ryan Reynolds, Hugh Jackman's Deadpool & Wolverine trailer is OUT now | Watch

Amarjot became aware of Chamkila's first wife after birth of their son, singer's sister reveals

• Live Scores
• Other Sports

Yuzvendra Chahal etches his name in history books, becomes first player in IPL to take 200 wickets

Android 15 to come with NFC-based wireless charging support: All you need to know

Oppo K12 set to launch on April 24: What to expect?

Redmi set to launch affordable 5G smartphone with fast charging and bigger battery

IndiGo soon to launch electric air taxi: Travel from Delhi to Gurugram in 7-minutes

What is Blue Whale Challenge? Know about the reason behind Indian student's death in US

Muizzu's party wins Maldives polls despite geopolitical turbulence: What does this mean for India?

Imbalance between bat and ball? 3 reasons why impact player rule has overstayed its welcome

Iran and Israel: How the two countries went from allies to arch-enemies? History EXPLAINED

What are Israeli PM Netanyahu's options after Iran's unprecedented direct attack? Explained

Is 'dry promotion' in jobs just a resume builder? Know what it is and why it is trending | EXPLAINED

Horoscope Today, April 23: Capricorns to avoid unnecessary thinking; know about other zodiac signs

Horoscope Today, April 22: Luck will favour Pisces; know about other zodiac signs

Horoscope Today, April 21: Stars of fortune high for Taurus; know about other zodiac signs

Weekly Horoscope (April 22-April 28): Aquarius needs to prioritise health; know about your sign

Horoscope Today, April 20: Wonderful day for Libra; know about other zodiac signs

Balanced Diet to Adequate Sleep: 5 simple tips to manage pre-diabetic conditions

Superfood Ginseng: Know THESE 5 benefits of this Herbal Medicine

New shoe insole technology offers hope in diabetic foot ulcer prevention: Study

Here's why heat wave causing dehydration in kids aged 3-15, expert explains

Superfood Bulgur: Know THESE 5 benefits of Daliya

• Relationships

World Book Day 2024: 5 must-read books to master the art of money making

Happy Hanuman Jayanti 2024: Wishes, messages, images, quotes, WhatsApp and Facebook status to share

Green Corner to Waste-Free Lunch: 5 interesting ideas to celebrate the Earth Day 2024 at workplace

Buttermilk vs Lassi: Which dahi-based drink is more beneficial during summer?

World Earth Day 2024: Date, theme, history, and significance about the blue planet

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

• Business Today
• India Today
• India Today Gaming
• Cosmopolitan
• Harper's Bazaar
• Brides Today
• Aajtak Campus

• Magazine Cover Story Editor's Note Deep Dive Interview The Buzz
• BT TV Market Today Easynomics Drive Today BT Explainer
• Market Today Trending Stocks Indices Stocks List Stocks News Share Market News IPO Corner
• Tech Today Unbox Today Authen Tech Tech Deck Tech Shorts
• Money Today Tax Investment Insurance Tools & Calculator
• Mutual Funds
• Industry Banking IT Auto Energy Commodities Pharma Real Estate Telecom
• Visual Stories

INDICES ANALYSIS

Mutual funds.

• Cover Story
• Editor's Note
• Market Today
• Drive Today
• BT Explainer
• Trending Stocks
• Stocks List
• Stocks News
• Share Market News
• Unbox Today
• Authen Tech
• Tech Shorts
• Tools & Calculator
• Commodities
• Real Estate
• Election with BT
• Economic Indicators
• BT-TR GCC Listing

US waives in-person interview for visa applicants in India

Applicants eligible for the waiver are students (f, m, and academic j visas), workers (h-1, h-2, h-3, and individual l visas), culture and extraordinary ability (o, p, and q visas)..

• Updated Feb 27, 2022, 2:55 PM IST

The United States has waived in-person interview requirements for many visa applicants, including students and workers, at its diplomatic missions in India through December 31 this year, a senior American diplomat has told Indian community leaders.

These applicants eligible for the waiver are students (F, M, and academic J visas), workers (H-1, H-2, H-3, and individual L visas), Culture and extraordinary ability (O, P, and Q visas).

This is much-needed support to visa applicants. This would be very helpful to our friends and immediate family members and remove a lot of their concerns and remove inconveniences, Ajay Jain Bhutoria, South Asian Community Leader and US President Joe Biden's Advisor for Asian Americans, said after his meeting with Assistant Secretary of State for South Central Asia, Donal Lu.

Bhutoria raised the issue of visas during his meeting with Lu in Silicon Valley in the US state of California on Friday.

Lu informed that through December 31, of this year, the US Department of State is authorised to waive in-person interview requirements for certain applicants and their qualifying derivatives in various non-immigrant visa classifications.

To be eligible for the expanded interview waiver programme, applicants seeking these visa classifications must have previously been issued any category of US visa; have never been refused a US visa and have no indication of ineligibility or potential visa ineligibility.

They also need to be a resident or national of the country in which they are applying; among other, the State Department said.

The US embassy in New Delhi and its consulates in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata and Mumbai will release more than 20,000 additional waiver (dropbox) appointments for Spring 2022 to allow qualified applicants to make use of the new interview waiver authority, according to a notice posted on the website of the US Embassy in New Delhi.

During the meeting, Bhutoria discussed with Lu to increase people-to people relationships between the US and India. He stressed the importance of both the US and India working closely together in South Central Asia.

Both India and the US are strong democracies and share democratic values and provide leadership in the Asia Pacific region, he said.

They also discussed the immense contribution made by the Indian American diaspora and their influential role in digital economic growth, startups and establishing businesses and companies, and contributing to the growth of the US economy.

Assistant Secretary Lu, Bhutoria, Indian American Congressman Ro Khanna also met at the afternoon event to discuss with Afghan community leaders, elected officials the Afghanistan refugee resettlement.

During the meeting, Lu highlighted recent immigration changes, recognising the tremendous opportunities that US work and study offer and the important contributions of international visitors to US communities, campuses, and the economy, the Department of State has streamlined visa processes for many applicants while continuing to protect national security, a media release said.

TOP STORIES

• Advertise with us
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions
• Press Releases

Copyright©2024 Living Media India Limited. For reprint rights: Syndications Today

Add Business Today to Home Screen

• Southeast Asia
• North America
• Central & South America
• Australia & South Pacific
• Middle-East
• Solo Travel
• Zodiac Travels
• Wellness & Spas
• Family Travel
• The Conscious Traveller
• Accessories
• Points and Miles
• Manushi Chhillar
• Quick Style
• Rajkummar Rao
• Chefs Himanshu Saini & Neha Mishra
• Poorna Jagannathan
• Guru Randhawa
• Edition 2023-24
• Edition 2022-23
• Edition 2021-22
• T+L Experiences
• Web Stories

US Expands Visa Interview Waiver Process. Find Out Whether You're Eligible

Travellers looking to renew their us visa can breathe a sigh of relief as they will now be able to skip the queue for in-person interviews..

By: Ayushi Anand Published: Apr 28, 2023 02:00 PM IST

Travellers looking to renew their US visa can breathe a sigh of relief as they will now be able to skip the queue for in-person interviews. The US Embassy in India has announced that applicant who has received clearance or department authorisation on their previous visa can apply for a new visa without appearing for an interview.

This expansion of the interview waiver process came after US State Department implemented various steps to reduce the visa appointment wait time , which increased significantly across various categories over the past two years. Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Visa Services Julie Stufft, in an interview, told PTI    that the US has been able to cut visa appointment delays by 60 percent this year.

Things to know for the interview waiver process

Prior to this update,  travellers were required to attend an in-person interview to renew their visas at the US Embassy or consulate. With this change in the application process, travellers will now be able to save time and avoid the hassle of going through the visa application process from the beginning.

More good news for U.S. visa renewals! Travelers with “clearance received” or “department authorization” on their previous visas can now use the interview waiver process to apply for a new visa. For additional interview waiver criteria, please see our website. pic.twitter.com/SW0X5U5sHa — U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) April 27, 2023

To be eligible for the waiver, applicants should renew their visa in the same category within 48 months of expiration. For travellers applying for F, H-1, H-3, H-4, non-blanket L, M, O, P, Q and academic J visas, consular officers are authorised to waive off the in-person interviews for them provided they apply for a visa in their country of nationality or residence.

Processing time for visa renewal

The visa application centre may take up to three weeks, starting from the time the passport has been accepted at the visa application centre until the time the passport is ready for delivery or pickup. During this period, the applicant can neither withdraw the passport nor put in requests to expedite the process.

Applicants who have a previous refusal that was not subsequently waived or overcome are not eligible for this authorisation. Also, consular officers still have the right to request an in-person interview in case additional information is required from applicants. Make sure to check the embassy or consulate’s website for more information.

(Hero and feature image credit: Vinokurov Kirill/Shutterstock)

Related: Indians To Get Quicker Visa Appointments Under New Rules By The US Consulate

• US Visa Applicants
• US visa from India
• US Visa Rules

Ayushi Anand

A post-graduate in journalism and mass communication, Ayushi is a digital writer who has worked with several Indian media organisations, including Times Internet Limited and Zee Media Corporation Limited, in the news, lifestyle and entertainment space. When she's not on her desk, she can be found dancing, trying new restaurants or packing her bags to .. Read More explore a new destination. Read Less

Related Stories

London Tops List Of The World’s Best Cities For 2024, Singapore Comes In Fifth

By Travel + Leisure

World's Best Airport In 2024 Dethrones Singapore's Changi In Surprise Takeoff

By Priyaja Bakshi

All About The Vrindavan Chandrodaya Mandir, UP's Upcoming Skyscraper Temple

By Pyusha Chatterjee

Dubai Airport Advises Passengers Amid Floods: Come Only If Flight Is Confirmed

By Yashita Vashishth

Travelling To South America? Indians Will Now Need An e-Transit Visa Via Istanbul

A Literature Museum Will Open In Hong Kong This June

By Jianne Soriano

Work From Paradise: Italy Introduces Digital Nomad Visa

Celebrate Spring With Great Wisteria Festival 2024 At Japan's Ashikaga Flower Park

K-Pop, Kimchi & More! Explore Korean Cuisine, Culture At Delhi's Korea Street Fair 2024

Subscribe to our newsletter to get the latest on travel, stay & dining.

You’re all set

Thank you for your subscription.

• Tata Steel share price
• 161.85 0.00%
• HDFC Bank share price
• 1,515.95 0.24%
• Tata Motors share price
• 980.40 0.70%
• NTPC share price
• 345.50 0.71%
• Reliance Industries share price
• 2,954.00 -0.22%

US waives in-person interview requirements for many visa applicants in India, Check details here

The us embassy said that department has also authorized consular officers to waive the in-person interview requirement for certain categories of visa applicants through december 31, 2022..

The US embassy announced that it has resumed visa processing of routine in-person B1/B2 visas appointments in September 2022. It said that these appointments are not placeholder appointments. The department has also authorized consular officers to waive the in-person interview requirement for certain categories of visa applicants through December 31, 2022. 

According to the embassy, this new authorization applies to travelers applying for F, H-1, H-3, H-4, non-blanket L, M, O, P, Q, and academic J visas who were previously issued any type of visa, if they are applying for a visa in their country of nationality or residence. 

This authorization does not apply to applicants who have a previous refusal that was not subsequently waived or overcome, the US embassy said on its website, adding that the applicants who are renewing any visa within 48 months of expiration also continue to be eligible for interview waiver.

Appointment demand for all visa categories is high due to reduced staffing and numerous pandemic-related disruptions since 2020. The embassy also suggested that the wait times for most routine non-immigrant visa appointments, can be lengthy. 

“The consular sections across India are now accepting a limited number of drop box applications for renewals of H, L, C1/D, O, I, F, M, and J visas at our Visa Application Centers. Applicants need to visit the official website----usembassy.gov---to determine whether they are eligible for drop box processing and schedule an appointment for document drop-off," the US embassy said.

It also said that the embassy understand that many visa applicants have paid the visa application processing fee and are still waiting to schedule a visa appointment. Hence, it is working diligently to restore all routine visa operations as quickly and safely as possible.

In the meantime, the US Mission said that it will extend the validity of payments until September 30, 2023 to allow all applicants who were unable to schedule a visa appointment. 

Milestone Alert! Livemint tops charts as the fastest growing news website in the world 🌏 Click here to know more.

Unlock a world of Benefits! From insightful newsletters to real-time stock tracking, breaking news and a personalized newsfeed – it's all here, just a click away! Login Now!

Wait for it…

Log in to our website to save your bookmarks. It'll just take a moment.

You are just one step away from creating your watchlist!

Oops! Looks like you have exceeded the limit to bookmark the image. Remove some to bookmark this image.

Your session has expired, please login again.

Congratulations!

You are now subscribed to our newsletters. In case you can’t find any email from our side, please check the spam folder.

Subscribe to continue

This is a subscriber only feature Subscribe Now to get daily updates on WhatsApp

The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

Us consolidates visitor visa interview waiver appointments in new delhi.

US Embassy in India updates visa procedures, focusing on B-1/B-2 interview waivers in New Delhi. Nonimmigrant B-1/B-2 visas can be processed at multiple centers across India. The US Consular Team processed a record 1.4 million US visas in 2023.

Falling fares and an AI arms race: What travelers can expect in 2024

New York City expects to welcome 3,83,000 travellers from India in 2024

In a first, US introduces 'third gender' option in immigration forms

Read More News on

Amid slackening revenue-growth for IT majors, there is a silver lining

What India’s most powerful investigative agency is about?

India Inc is under-reporting work-related injuries. Why?

A 1 pm mail, two top exits: Is IndiGo heading for a deep restructuring?

Zepto CEO Aadit Palicha doesn’t run the quick-commerce app. Then who does?

How this oil & gas stock found its roar back after years of silence

Find this comment offensive?

Choose your reason below and click on the Report button. This will alert our moderators to take action

Reason for reporting:

Your Reason has been Reported to the admin.

To post this comment you must

Log In/Connect with:

Fill in your details:

Will be displayed

Will not be displayed

Share this Comment:

Uh-oh this is an exclusive story available for selected readers only..

Worry not. You’re just a step away.

Prime Account Detected!

It seems like you're already an ETPrime member with

Login using your ET Prime credentials to enjoy all member benefits

Log out of your current logged-in account and log in again using your ET Prime credentials to enjoy all member benefits.

To read full story, subscribe to ET Prime

₹34 per week

Billed annually at ₹2499 ₹1749

Super Saver Sale - Flat 30% Off

On ET Prime Membership

Unlock this story and enjoy all members-only benefits.

Offer Exclusively For You

Save up to Rs. 700/-

ON ET PRIME MEMBERSHIP

Get 1 Year Free

With 1 and 2-Year ET prime membership

Get Flat 40% Off

Then ₹ 1749 for 1 year

ET Prime at ₹ 49 for 1 month

Stay Ahead in the New Financial Year

Get flat 20% off on ETPrime

90 Days Prime access worth Rs999 unlocked for you

Exclusive Economic Times Stories, Editorials & Expert opinion across 20+ sectors

Stock analysis. Market Research. Industry Trends on 4000+ Stocks

​Get 1 Year Complimentary Subscription of TOI+ worth Rs.799/-​

Stories you might be interested in

We’re sorry, this site is currently experiencing technical difficulties. Please try again in a few moments. Exception: request blocked

The Economic Times daily newspaper is available online now.

Us consulate in hyderabad conducts visa interviews for 1500 applicants in 'super saturday' exercise.

US Consulate Team in Hyderabad conducted a quarterly Super Saturday, processing 1500 visitor visa applicants. Efforts to streamline the process and strengthen US-India connections were highlighted, with a focus on technological advancements and the increasing number of Indian visa applicants.

US consolidates visitor visa interview waiver appointments in New Delhi

Visa fees for international artists to tour in the US shot up 250% in April. It could be devastating

Apply for visas in advance: VFS Global tells travelers as demand spikes

— USAndHyderabad (@USAndHyderabad)

Read More News on

What India’s most powerful investigative agency is about?

India Inc is under-reporting work-related injuries. Why?

A 1 pm mail, two top exits: Is IndiGo heading for a deep restructuring?

Zepto CEO Aadit Palicha doesn’t run the quick-commerce app. Then who does?

How this oil & gas stock found its roar back after years of silence

What makes foreign investors jittery about the Mauritius route suddenly?

Find this comment offensive?

Choose your reason below and click on the Report button. This will alert our moderators to take action

Reason for reporting:

Your Reason has been Reported to the admin.

To post this comment you must

Log In/Connect with:

Fill in your details:

Will be displayed

Will not be displayed

Share this Comment:

Uh-oh this is an exclusive story available for selected readers only..

Worry not. You’re just a step away.

Prime Account Detected!

It seems like you're already an ETPrime member with

Login using your ET Prime credentials to enjoy all member benefits

Log out of your current logged-in account and log in again using your ET Prime credentials to enjoy all member benefits.

To read full story, subscribe to ET Prime

₹34 per week

Billed annually at ₹2499 ₹1749

Super Saver Sale - Flat 30% Off

On ET Prime Membership

Unlock this story and enjoy all members-only benefits.

Offer Exclusively For You

Save up to Rs. 700/-

ON ET PRIME MEMBERSHIP

Get 1 Year Free

With 1 and 2-Year ET prime membership

Get Flat 40% Off

Then ₹ 1749 for 1 year

ET Prime at ₹ 49 for 1 month

Stay Ahead in the New Financial Year

Get flat 20% off on ETPrime

90 Days Prime access worth Rs999 unlocked for you

Exclusive Economic Times Stories, Editorials & Expert opinion across 20+ sectors

Stock analysis. Market Research. Industry Trends on 4000+ Stocks

​Get 1 Year Complimentary Subscription of TOI+ worth Rs.799/-​

Stories you might be interested in

Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents, tourism & visit.

Study & Exchange

Other Visa Categories

U.S. Visa: Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country

Share this page:

Visitor Visa

Visa Waiver Program

Travel Without a Visa

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), for tourism (visa category B-2), or for a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2).

Here are some examples of activities permitted with a visitor visa:

Business (B-1)

• Consult with business associates
• Attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
• Settle an estate
• Negotiate a contract

Tourism (B-2)

• Vacation (holiday)
• Visit with friends or relatives
• Medical treatment
• Participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
• Participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating
• Enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)

Travel Purposes Not Permitted On Visitor Visas

These are some examples of activities that require different categories of visas and cannot be done while on a visitor visa:

• Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience
• Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft
• Work as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media
• Permanent residence in the United States

Visitor visas will also not be issued for birth tourism (travel for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for their child).

How to Apply

There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please consult the instructions on the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate website .

Complete the Online Visa Application

• Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 – Learn more about completing the DS-160 . You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Schedule an Interview

Interviews are generally required for visa applicants with certain limited exceptions below. Consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant.

You should schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate, but be aware that it may be more difficult to qualify for a visa outside of the country where you live. 

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early. Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply: 

Appointment Wait Time

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Note: Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

Prepare for your interview.

• Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee , if you are required to pay it before your interview. If your visa is approved, you may also need to pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below:

Select your nationality to see Issuance Fee

• Review the instructions available on the website of the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.

Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

• Passport valid for travel to the United States – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements ). Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family members listed in your passport.
• Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page.
• Application fee payment receipt, if you are required to pay before your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Additional Documentation May Be Required

Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish if you are qualified. For example, additional requested documents may include evidence of:

• The purpose of your trip,
• Your intent to depart the United States after your trip, and/or
• Your ability to pay all costs of the trip.   

Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may be sufficient to show the purpose of your trip and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all the costs for your trip, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs for your trip.

Note:  Visa applicants must qualify on the basis of the applicant's residence and ties abroad, rather than assurances from U.S. family and friends. A letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a visitor visa. If you choose to bring a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support to your interview, please remember it is not one of the factors used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa.

Attend Your Visa Interview

A consular officer will interview you to determine whether you are qualified to receive a visitor visa. You must establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive a visa.   Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further  administrative processing .  The consular officer will inform you if this required.

After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if applicable to your nationality), and make arrangements for the return of the passport and visa to you.  Review the  visa processing times  to learn more.

Entering the United States

A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. If you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or a paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Learn more about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the CBP website .

Extending Your Stay

See  Extend Your Stay  on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website to learn about requesting to extend your stay beyond the date indicated on your admission stamp or paper Form I-94. 

Failure to depart the United States on time will result in being  out of status . Under U.S. law, visas of individuals who are out of status are automatically voided ( Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ).  Any multiple entry visa that was voided due to being out of status will not be valid for future entries into the United States. 

Failure to depart the United States on time may also result in you being ineligible for visas in the future. Review  Visa Denials  and  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws  to learn more.

Change of Status

If your plans change while in the United States (for example, you marry a U.S. citizen or receive an offer of employment), you may be able to request a change in your nonimmigrant status to another category through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). See  Change My Nonimmigrant Status  on the USCIS website to learn more.

While you are in the United States, receiving a change of status from USCIS does not require you to apply for a new visa.  However, once you depart the United States you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the appropriate category for your travel.

Additional Information

• An individual on a visitor visa (B1/B2) is not permitted to accept employment or work in the United States.
• There is no guarantee you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
• A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States. 

Travel for Medical Treatment

If you are seeking medical treatment in the United States, the consular officer may ask for further documents at your visa interview, which may include:

• Medical diagnosis from a local physician, explaining the nature of the ailment and the reason you need treatment in the United States.
• Letter from a physician or medical facility in the United States, stating they are willing to treat your specific ailment and detailing the projected length and cost of treatment (including doctors’ fees, hospitalization fees, and all medical-related expenses).
• Proof that your transportation, medical, and living expenses in the United States will be paid. This may be in the form of bank or other statements of income/savings or certified copies of income tax returns (either yours or the person or organization paying for your treatment).

Visitor Visas for Personal or Domestic Employees (B-1)

You may apply for a B-1 visitor visa to work in the United States as a personal or domestic employee for your employer in limited situations. You may work in the United States on a visitor visa if your employer is:

• A U.S. citizen who has a permanent home or is stationed in a foreign country, but is visiting or is assigned to the United States temporarily; or
• A foreign citizen who is in the United States on one of the following nonimmigrant visa categories:  B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, or Q.

Learn more about your rights in the United States and protection available to you by reading the Legal Rights and Protections pamphlet.

Visa Renewal

Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your visa, you will use the same application process (please review How to Apply , above). Some applicants seeking to renew their visas in certain visa classes may be eligible for the Interview Waiver (IW) which allows qualified individuals to apply for visa renewals without being interviewed in person by a U.S. consular officer. Review the instructions on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply to determine if the IW is available and if you qualify.

Do I need a visa if I have an ABTC?

Yes, you will still need a visa to travel to the United States, unless you qualify for the  Visa Waiver Program . Having an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC) does not change visa requirements, your visa status, or the visa process for travel to the United States.

How can I use my ABTC when I apply for my visa?

If you have an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC),  you might be able to schedule an expedited visa interview appointment. Review the instructions for scheduling expedited appointments on the website of the  embassy or consulate  where you will apply. 

Visa Annotations for Certain Maritime Industry Workers

Certain foreign maritime workers are eligible to apply for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) once in the U.S. If you, as a maritime industry worker, will perform services in secure port areas, your visa must be annotated “TWIC Letter Received.” Workers whose visas are not annotated will not be permitted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to apply for a TWIC.

In order for your visa to be annotated, you must obtain a letter from your employer explaining the need for a TWIC and that you are a potential TWIC applicant. See a template example of this letter. You must present this letter when you apply for the B-1 visa. You must meet all other eligibility requirements for a B-1 visa. 

Complete information about the TWIC program is available on TSA’s website at  https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic .

Visa Denial and Ineligibility

Review  Visa Denials  for detailed information about visa ineligibilities, denials and waivers.

I was refused a visa, under Section 214(b). May I reapply?

Yes, if you feel circumstances have changed regarding your application. Review  Visa Denials  to learn more.

Misrepresentation or Fraud

Attempting to obtain a visa by the willful misrepresentation of a material fact, or fraud, may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States.

Review  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws .

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not require visas to enter the United States, for visit, tourism and temporary business travel purposes. For more information see  U.S. Embassy Ottawa website ,  U.S. Consulate Hamilton website  and  CBP website .

Additional resources for Canadian visitors to the United States can be found on the U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites in Canada.

Citizens of China

In accordance with the agreement signed between the United States and China to extend visa validity, beginning on November 29, 2016, Chinese citizens with 10-year B1, B2 or B1/B2 visas in Peoples’ Republic of China passports will be required to update their biographical and other information from their visa application via a website every two years, or upon getting a new passport or B1, B2, or B1/B2 visa, whichever occurs first.  This mechanism is called EVUS - Electronic Visa Update System.

The EVUS website is now open to the public for enrollments at www.EVUS.gov .  CBP will not collect a fee for EVUS enrollment at this time. CBP anticipates the eventual implementation of an EVUS enrollment fee, but does not have a time frame. Until the implementation of a fee, travelers can enroll in EVUS without charge.  The Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will keep visa holders informed of new information throughout the year. For further information, please visit  www.cbp.gov/EVUS .‎

根据美中双方签署的延长签证有效期的协议，自2016年11月29日起，凡持有10 年 期B1，B2 或 B1/B2签证的中华人民共和国护照持有人需要每两年或在获取新护照或最长有效期的B1、B2或B1/B2签证时时（以先到者为准），通过网站更新他们签证申请上的个人资料及其它信息。这个机制我们称之为EVUS –签证更新电子系统。

EVUS的登记网站 www.EVUS.gov 现已开放接受登记。美国海关和边境保护局（CBP）目前不会收取登记费用。美国海关和边境保护局预期EVUS登记收费最终会实施，但目前尚未落实执行时间。在收费实施前，旅客可以免费完成EVUS登记。美国国土安全部海关和边境保护局将在今年及时向签证持有人公布最新的信息。获取更多的信息，请访问 www.cbp.gov/EVUS 。

Citizens of Mexico

Citizens and permanent residents of Mexico generally must have a nonimmigrant visa or Border Crossing Card (also known as a "Laser Visa"). For ease of travel, the B-1/B-2 and the Border Crossing Card have been combined into one document (DSP-150). Select  Border Crossing Card  to learn more about this card.

Please visit  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  websites for more information regarding applying for a visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulates in Mexico.

Further Questions

• Case-Specific Questions - Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling your visa application for status information. Select  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  for contact information.
• General Questions - review  Contact Us .

Visa Waiver Program  (VWP)

Tourist or business travelers who are citizens of participating countries may be eligible to visit the United States without a visa. Visits must be 90 days or less, and travelers must meet all requirements.

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not need visas for tourism and visits.

More Information

A-Z Index Legal Rights & Protections Lost/Stolen Travel Documents Denials Fraud Warning Visa Expiration Date Automatic Revalidation Nonimmigrants in the United States–Applying for Visas in Canada or Mexico Visa Applicants - State Sponsors of Terrorism Border Security/Safety Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Customer Service Statement

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

• International
• Today’s Paper
• Mumbai News
• Chandigarh News
• Bangalore News
• Lucknow News
• Ahmedabad News
• Chennai News

EU eases norm to offer Indians multiple entry Schengen visa with longer validity

European union's ambassador to india herve delphin described the new visa regime as another step towards enhancing people-to-people contact between the two sides..

In a major reprieve for Indian travellers seeking to visit Europe during the upcoming holiday season, the European Union will now offer multiple entry Schengen visas with longer validity. As EU eases the visa norms, frequent Indian travellers will now be able to apply for five-year multiple entry visas, which puts them at par with “visa-free nationals”.

As per a statement issued by the European Union on Monday to this effect, Indian nationals can now be issued long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after having obtained and used two visas in the past three years. “The two-year visa will normally be followed by a five-year visa, if the passport has sufficient validity remaining,” the readout said.

European Union’s ambassador to India Herve Delphin described the new visa regime as another step towards enhancing people-to-people contact between the two sides. “Travel to Europe made easy,” Delphin remarked.

“On April 18, the European Commission adopted specific rules on the issuing of multiple entry visas to Indian nationals, which are more favourable than the standard rules of the visa code that applied to date,” said the EU statement.

“According to the newly adopted visa ‘cascade’ regime for India, Indian nationals can now be issued long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after having obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years,” it said.

“The two-year visa will normally be followed by a five-year visa, if the passport has sufficient validity remaining. During the validity period of these visas, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals,” it said.

The changes in the visa norms came in the context of “strengthened”relations under the EU-India common agenda on migration and mobility, which seeks comprehensive cooperation on migration policy between the two sides, it added.

During the holiday season, Indian travellers typically face inordinate delays in securing visa appointments to countries under the Schengen region, sometimes lasting up to two to three months. This became particularly worse during the pandemic, when the visa appointment times extended up to several months.

Even as Schengen visas — along with the US visas — are the most sought-after among Indian travellers, while the US offers a 10-year visa to Indians seeking B1/B2 category (visit and tourism visas), the Schengen countries typically offer travel date-specific visas.

Schengen visas allow the holder to travel freely in the Schengen area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. The visas are not purpose-bound, but they do not grant the right to work.

The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries of which 25 are EU states. These include Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

Divya A reports on travel, tourism, culture and social issues - not necessarily in that order - for The Indian Express. She's been a journalist for over a decade now, working with Khaleej Times and The Times of India, before settling down at Express. Besides writing/ editing news reports, she indulges her pen to write short stories. As Sanskriti Prabha Dutt Fellow for Excellence in Journalism, she is researching on the lives of the children of sex workers in India. ... Read More

K S Eshwarappa, former deputy chief minister of Karnataka, has been expelled from the Bharatiya Janata Party for 6 years. This comes after he announced his decision to contest as an Independent candidate from the Shivamogga Lok Sabha constituency, following his son's denial of a BJP ticket from Haveri.

• MP Board 5th 8th Result 2024 Live Updates: RSKMP to declare results at 11:30, scorecards at 12:30 at rskmp.in 34 mins ago
• Donald Trump Trial Live Updates: Trump tried to 'corrupt' the 2016 election, prosecutor alleges 7 hours ago
• NEET UG 2024 City Intimation Slip Live Updates: NTA city slip soon at neet.ntaonline.in 9 hours ago
• MP Board Result 2024 Live Updates: MPBSE 5th, 8th results tomorrow 29 mins ago

Best of Express

Buzzing Now

Apr 23: Latest News

• 01 Actor Ranveer Singh files police complaint over his deepfake video
• 02 Lok Sabha polls: Ex-CM Antulay’s son-in-law joins Ajit Pawar-led NCP
• 03 Hearing date for Ola, Uber license permits postponed to June 18
• 04 Colour coding for polling booths will help citizens reach polling centres hassle-free: Mumbai Collector
• 05 TB drugs shortage: Pune to get supply in 3-4 days
• Elections 2024
• Political Pulse
• Entertainment
• Movie Review
• Newsletters
• Gold Rate Today
• Silver Rate Today
• Petrol Rate Today
• Diesel Rate Today
• Web Stories
• Premium Stories
• Express Shorts
• Health & Wellness
• Board Exam Results