Us visa news for indian

Here are some recent updates and news related to US visas for Indians:

Visa Interview Waiver Program (VIWP) for Indian Nationals

• In October 2020, the US Department of State announced the expansion of the Visa Interview Waiver Program (VIWP) to include Indian nationals.
• Under this program, eligible Indian nationals can apply for a non-immigrant visa (NIV) without attending a visa interview at a US embassy or consulate.
• To be eligible, applicants must have a previously approved visa, have a valid electronic system for travel authorization (ESTA) approval, and meet certain other requirements.

Increased Visa Fees for Indian Nationals

• In October 2020, the US Department of State announced a fee increase for certain non-immigrant visa categories, including the H, L, and O visas, which are popular among Indian professionals.
• The new fees took effect on October 13, 2020, and apply to all applications submitted on or after that date.

Changes to the H-1B Visa Program

• In January 2020, the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) announced changes to the H-1B visa program, including a new electronic registration process and a higher minimum salary requirement.
• The changes aim to reduce the number of H-1B petitions filed and to prioritize higher-paid workers.

New Requirements for Indian Nationals Applying for US Visas

• In August 2020, the US Department of State announced new requirements for Indian nationals applying for US visas, including:
  • Biometric data collection: Indian nationals will be required to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints, as part of the visa application process.
  • Social media questions: Indian nationals will be asked to provide social media handles as part of the visa application process.

US-India Visa Agreement

• In October 2019, the US and India signed a new visa agreement aimed at simplifying the visa application process and reducing wait times for Indian nationals applying for US visas.
• The agreement includes provisions for expedited processing, increased visa validity, and improved communication between the two countries.

US Visa Wait Times for Indian Nationals

• According to the US Department of State, the wait times for US visas for Indian nationals have increased significantly in recent years, with some wait times exceeding 12-18 months.
• The wait times vary depending on the type of visa and the specific US embassy or consulate.

Tips for Indian Nationals Applying for US Visas

• Apply early: It's recommended to apply for a US visa at least 3-6 months in advance to ensure timely processing.
• Check the visa requirements: Make sure you meet the eligibility criteria and requirements for the specific visa category you're applying for.
• Prepare required documents: Ensure you have all the required documents, including a valid passport, proof of payment, and any additional documents required for your specific visa category.
• Consider expedited processing: If you need a US visa quickly, consider applying for expedited processing, which can reduce the wait time to 2-5 business days.

I hope this information is helpful!