US Issues Over One Million Nonimmigrant Visas to India for Second Consecutive Year

By Advay January 3, 2025
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The United States has issued over one million nonimmigrant visas to Indian citizens for the second consecutive year, highlighting the growing demand for travel to the US for business, tourism, and education. This milestone underscores the strong ties between the two nations and the increasing mobility of Indian visitors to the US.

According to the US Mission to India, the number of Indian visitors has surged, with over two million Indians travelling to the US in the first 11 months of 2024—a 26% increase compared to the previous year. Moreover, more than five million Indians now hold nonimmigrant visas, with thousands more being issued daily.

The Mission successfully piloted a programme this year for H-1B visa renewals within the United States, streamlining the process for Indian professionals. This initiative, which allows renewals without requiring applicants to leave the country, is set to formally launch in 2025.

In addition to nonimmigrant visas, the US Mission facilitated skilled migration and family reunifications through immigrant visas, further contributing to the growth of the Indian diaspora in the US. The Mission also issued over 24,000 passports to American citizens travelling to India and introduced a new version of the Smart Traveler Enrolment Program (STEP) in 2024.

Efforts to enhance visa processing included increasing the handling of interview waiver-eligible applications and optimising global consular resources. These measures significantly reduced wait times for in-person interviews, making the renewal process faster and more efficient for Indian applicants.

The achievements of the US Mission to India reflect its commitment to fostering stronger bilateral ties and supporting the movement of people between India and the United States.

Source: SHIKSHA

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