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This Indian city has faster US visa slots

TT Editor·Updated: 18 Feb 2026 12:28 pm IST
Read time: 1 min
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Indian applicants for US visitor visas are experiencing significant variations in wait times depending on the city from which they apply. As of February 2026, Chennai has emerged as the most efficient location, offering a mere one-month wait for the next available B1/B2 visa interview. In stark contrast, applicants in Mumbai face an extended wait of up to ten months, while New Delhi and Hyderabad have waits of eight months each. The US Department of State's Global Visa Wait Times portal highlights that, apart from visitor visas, student and work visa categories (F, M, J, H, L, O, P, Q) generally show quicker processing times across various cities. Chennai continues to provide expedient access, with student visas available in just one month, compared to longer waits in other major cities. This disparity suggests that applicants willing to travel to Chennai could significantly reduce their waiting time for US visa appointments. The US Department of State regularly updates these wait times, indicating that embassies and consulates actively manage appointment slots to accommodate the high demand, especially in major urban centers like Mumbai and Delhi.

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