If you are applying for a US visitor visa from Chennai, you are already ahead of the queue. While Mumbai applicants stare down a nine-month wait, Chennai is processing B1/B2 interview slots in around three months, the shortest wait among all major Indian cities, according to the latest data from the US Department of State’s Global Visa Wait Times tracker, published by a section of the media.
The gap is striking. Mumbai currently holds the longest delay in the country, with both the average wait time and the next available B1/B2 appointment sitting at nine months. New Delhi is shorter but still daunting — the next available slot is seven months away.
Hyderabad and Kolkata sit in the middle, according to reports. Hyderabad shows an average wait of 6.5 months, with the next available appointment at eight months. Kolkata lists a next slot of 6.5 months.
The variation matters. Applicants are not bound to their nearest consulate. Those willing to travel to Chennai for their interview could cut their wait time by more than half compared to Mumbai.
The data is updated monthly and reflects interview availability across US embassies and consulates. Officials caution that timelines can shift as new slots are released — and that average wait times do not guarantee an appointment within any specific period. Applicants are advised to monitor official booking systems regularly.
The picture is very different for student and work visas.
Student visa categories, F, M and J, are moving significantly faster. New Delhi shows availability in under half a month. Mumbai has a two-month wait. Hyderabad sits at around 2.5 months.
Work visas covering H, L, O, P and Q categories are also quicker. New Delhi and Mumbai show availability in about one month. Kolkata is at 1.5 months, Hyderabad at three months.
Crew and transit visas remain the fastest of all, with most cities offering appointments within a month or less.
The data points to one clear trend: demand for US visitor visas across India remains high and sustained. For those in no hurry to reschedule, patience is the only option. For those who can be flexible about where they sit for their interview, Chennai is worth a serious look.
Also Read: Flights, Weddings, Emergencies: H-1B Holders In India Face Visa Chaos https://www.vibesofindia.com/flights-weddings-emergencies-h-1b-holders-in-india-face-visa-chaos/
