US Visa Wait Times Surge to 14 Months: What Indian Travel Agents Must Know in 2025

Planning US Travel in 2025? Brace for Record-High Visa Delays

For Indian travellers and B2B travel agents, the process of securing a US visa in 2025 has become significantly more complex. Wait times for visa appointments are now stretching beyond a year in many major cities, and recently introduced rescheduling restrictions add a fresh layer of urgency for those planning business, tourism, or academic trips to the United States.

Current Wait Times for US Visa Appointments in India

The U.S. B1/B2 visa (business and tourism) wait times vary by region, and the numbers are sobering:

• Chennai: ~14 months

• Mumbai: ~9.5 months

• New Delhi: ~8 months

• Hyderabad: ~7 months

• Kolkata: ~6 months

The delays are primarily caused by a post-pandemic surge in demand and limited processing capacity at consulates.

Student and Work Visa Wait Times Slightly Better

Applicants seeking student (F, M, J) or petition-based employment visas (H, L, O, P, Q) are seeing shorter delays — typically between 1.5 to 3 months — but those in western India are reporting booking slots well into late 2026.

2025’s Tougher US Visa Rescheduling Rules – What’s Changed?

Starting January 2025, the U.S. Embassy has tightened its policies for rescheduling visa appointments:

◾ One-Time Free Reschedule

Applicants are now allowed only one free appointment change. This applies across all categories — from B1/B2 to student visas.

◾ Second Reschedule = New Fee

A second rescheduling will require full repayment of the visa fee, scrapping the earlier rule that allowed two free changes.

◾ Missed Your Interview? Get Locked Out for 120 Days

Failing to show up for your appointment without cancelling will lead to a 120-day lockout from booking any new slot.

Tips for Travel Agents to Guide Clients Through the Delays

Whether you’re assisting students, families, or business travellers, here’s how to prepare your clients:

• Apply Early: Start visa applications 8–12 months in advance of the intended travel date.

• Monitor Consulate Websites: Appointment availabilities update often — check regularly.

• Avoid Missed Appointments: Set reminders and prepare documents well in advance.

• Reschedule Smartly: Make sure new dates are final to avoid paying another visa fee.

• Double-Check Documents: Errors or missing items can delay or deny a visa.

• Interview Prep Matters: Prepare clients for detailed questioning, especially first-timers.

• Use Dropbox Option if Eligible: If renewing in the same visa category, the Interview Waiver Program (IWP) could save time.

What This Means for B2B Travel Professionals

The current visa climate demands strategic planning and hands-on support from travel professionals. Consolidators and corporate planners should preemptively warn clients about long delays and fewer rebooking options. Business travellers in particular — often booking closer to departure — must now adopt a long-lead timeline similar to students.

Final Takeaway

As the U.S. tightens visa scheduling and rescheduling policies, Indian travel agents must adapt quickly. With wait times at record highs and stricter rules in effect, being proactive is no longer optional — it’s essential. Travel professionals who keep clients well-informed and prepared will stand out in this increasingly complex landscape.

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