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Updated July 2023
In the US, there are various visa options available, such as visitor visas, study permits, and work permits. Each visa category has its own unique processing time for both the overall application and the scheduling of interview appointments. These processing times can vary significantly between different visa categories.
If you’re planning to travel to the US, knowing the processing time is crucial. It helps you plan your trip, schedule appointments, and have realistic expectations. Here, the Wego team discusses the processing time for US visas.
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US visa processing time 2023
The processing time for a US visitor visa can vary based on multiple factors, including the specific type of visa being applied for and the location of the embassy or consulate where the application is submitted. These variables contribute to unique processing times for each individual case.
However, the processing time for a US visa application usually falls within the range of 3 to 5 weeks. After the processing period, applicants may receive either a positive or negative response to their application, depending on the evaluation by the consulate. If approved, the consulate will proceed with delivering the visa document, which typically takes an additional two workdays.
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US visa processing time after interview
Once your visa application is approved during the US visa interview, the processing time usually takes around 5 – 7 working days. It is recommended to allow for an additional 2 – 3 workdays to account for the delivery of your approved visa document. Please note that these timeframes may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your application and the location where it is processed.
Moreover, suppose you meet the criteria for the “Interview Waiver Program” and opt to submit your visa application through courier without attending an interview. In that case, the processing time is approximately 21 workdays from the date the Embassy receives your application. It is advisable to allocate an additional 2 – 3 workdays for the return of your passport.
US visa appointment processing times
The processing time for a US visa interview appointment is influenced by various factors, including the type of visa and the applicant’s country of application. It’s been reported that the median wait time for a US tourist visa interview appointment worldwide is approximately two months.
It should be highlighted that individuals who have urgent travel requirements and meet specific criteria have the option to request an emergency appointment, which is typically granted within a few days. It is essential to consider these timeframes and possibilities when planning your visa application and travel arrangements.
To determine the interview processing time for the nonimmigrant visa you are applying for, please follow the steps provided below:
- visit the US Bureau Consular Affairs website
- select the city of your US embassy or consulate
- click on ‘Go’
The wait time for obtaining a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a US embassy or consulate is subject to variation based on workload and staffing, and it can change from week to week. It is important to note that the information provided is an estimate and does not guarantee the availability of an appointment, as stated by travel.state.gov.
