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Updated November 2023
Embarking on a trip to the United States necessitates meticulous planning and compliance with immigration protocols, with a pivotal phase involving the acquisition of a US visa. One crucial aspect of the visa acquisition process is scheduling an appointment with the US Visa Application Center (VAC) and the US Embassy or Consulate. This appointment serves as a paramount step in facilitating the submission of necessary documents, biometric details, participating in an interview and more.
Read on as Wego helps you learn everything you need to know about scheduling a US visa appointment in India.
Do Indians need a US visa appointment?
Yes, Indian citizens who wish to enter the United States must obtain a visa, for which they would need to schedule an appointment at a US Visa Application Centre (VAC) in India. The visa appointment can be scheduled once the application form is submitted and fees are paid.
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US visa interview waiver
Under certain circumstances, Indian citizens may qualify for an interview waiver. In such a case, they can be eligible for obtaining a visa directly. Interview waivers are applicable for individuals applying for nonimmigrant visas who are either under 14 or over 80 years of age.
It is also applicable for individuals renewing their visas provided they fulfill certain conditions, such as:
- previous visa was issued in India
- no visa refusals post-issuance
- previous visa was issued after 14th birthday
- prior visa still valid or expired within the last 12 months (not annotated “Clearance Received” or “Department Authorization”)
- visa received after 1 January 2008
US visa appointment in India types
The US visas can be categorized as nonimmigrant and immigrant visas.
- Nonimmigrant visas: These visas cater to foreign individuals seeking temporary entry into the United States, encompassing purposes such as tourism, medical treatment, business activities, temporary employment, educational pursuits, and related intentions.
- Immigrant visas: These visas are granted to a foreign individual for establishing permanent residence and employment in the United States. Typically, this sponsorship is initiated by a family member or an employer who files an application with the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) on the individual’s behalf.
US visa appointment in India requirements
Non-immigrant visa
To schedule a US nonimmigrant visa appointment, you must possess the following documents:
- a passport valid for six months beyond your U.S. stay (unless country-specific agreements provide exemptions). If more than one person is included in your passport, each visa applicant must submit an application
- visa application (MRV) fee payment receipt.
- DS-160 confirmation page
- valid e-mail address
- if applicable, required documents based on visa class (such as a petition approval for petition-based visas)
- appointment confirmation page
Please note that additional documents may be required based on the specific visa type. Hence, make sure to consult the Embassy/Consulate or the VAC regarding the accurate list of documents required to attend the US visa appointment.
Immigrant visa
To schedule a US immigrant visa appointment, you must possess the following documents:
- a passport valid for six months beyond your U.S. stay (unless country-specific agreements provide exemptions). If more than one person is included in your passport, each visa applicant must submit an application.
- DS-260 confirmation page
- appointment confirmation page
- one photograph as per US visa specifications if the applicant is below 14 years of age.
- medical examination report
- Police Clearance Certificate (POC) from the Regional Passport Office
Please note that some supporting documents may be required depending on your visa class. You can find out the additional documentation required for specific categories here.
How to schedule a US visa appointment in India?
Applicants for U.S. visas must appear in person for an appointment at the VAC and the visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Most applicants will be required to have an appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC) prior to their appointment at the Consular Sections.
Biometric information, including fingerprints and digital photographs, will be collected at the VAC. You must schedule the VAC appointment at least one day before the interview appointment date.
To schedule a US visa appointment in India, follow the steps given below:
- register as a new user if you do not have an existing account on the US visa scheduling website. Please note that this is the new portal launched for US visa appointment scheduling, replacing the older system. You may also contact the call center for further assistance.
- login using your credentials to USTravelDocs.com with your payment details and access your dashboard.
- click “Schedule Appointment” on the left-hand side menu.
- enter your passport number, visa fee receipt number, and DS-160 barcode. Proceed to select your visa type, provide personal details, add dependents traveling with you, confirm payment, and set your appointment.
Please note that applicants are limited in the number of times they can reschedule their appointments. Make sure to plan accordingly to avoid having to pay another visa application fee.
Where to attend the US visa appointment interview in India?
Here are the different Embassies/Consulates where you can attend an interview for your US visa:
U.S. Embassy in India, New Delhi
Shantipath, Chanakyapuri, New Delhi – 110021
Open Monday to Friday from 8:30 AM to 5 PM
You can contact the Embassy at +91-11-24198000
U.S. Consulate General Chennai
Gemini Circle, Chennai 600 006
Open Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM
You can contact the Consulate at +91-44-2857-4000
U.S. Consulate General Hyderabad
Survey No. 115/1, Financial District, Nanakramguda, Hyderabad, Telangana, 500032
Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 5 PM
You can contact the Consulate at 040-6932-8000
U.S. Consulate General Kolkata
5/1, Ho Chi Minh Sarani, Kolkata – 700071, West Bengal, India
Open Monday to Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM
You can contact the Consulate at +91-33-6827-2400
U.S. Consulate General Mumbai
C-49, G-Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra East, Mumbai 400051
Open Monday to Friday, 8:30 AM to 4:30 PM
You can contact the Consulate at +91-22-26724000
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