Demand continues to far outweigh the supply for U.S. visa appointments in India. Embassy officials recently announced some updates to help individuals prepare. In addition, specifics about F-1 visa appointments are announced, with appointments opening the week of May 15, 2022, for first-time applicants.
- Full capacity will return in mid to late 2023.
- For 2022, an estimated two-thirds of capacity is expected.
- Refreshing the CGI federal website repeatedly will lock the individual out for three days, or 72 hours. Officials state there will be sufficient F1 appointments. Users should check back periodically.
- Individuals should complete a DS-160: Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application prior to the interview with their latest information. SEVIS fees must be paid prior to the interview for F1 applicants.
- Engaging booking agents is not required. Individuals can choose to work with these agents if they prefer. However, the embassy emphasized that any false information is considered fraud and some agents may suggest including false information to complete the booking. The emphasis is on ensuring total compliance.
- For an F-1 visa, individuals should apply where they reside or in their home country.
- Drop box stamping can be expected to take seven days with some processing sooner and some later.
Embassy officials stated new visa offers are being added to U.S. Consulates throughout India. They state capacity is increasing and on track to a return to normal levels.
F-1 visa appointments are expected to open the week of May 15, 2022, for Fall 2022 students. Individuals can monitor the webpage starting then to see when they open. A specific date has not been provided as in the past, systems crashed when overloaded. The second batch of appointments is expected to be available in early June. Embassy officials emphasize the wide availability of F-1 appointments for first-time applicants, providing the highest number of F1 appointments ever given for this year.
Embassy officials urge students to contact their schools and request the I-20 as soon as possible to book and complete their F-1 visa process.
For applicants previously rejected in the current or past year, appointments will be available between August 15 and September 1.
If you have questions about your F-1 visa or any other immigration-related issue, contact us. We work with you for your specific situation and are with you every step of the way.