Student visas on high priority; don't see numbers going backwards in our lifetime, says US

The United States Embassy and Consulates are prioritising student visa applications in India while also working to cut wait times for other visa categories.

In a recent interview at the American Center, US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, highlighted the United States' commitment to expediting the visa process for Indian students. This reflects a broader strategy to strengthen people-to-people ties, recognizing their significance in fostering long-lasting relationships between the two nations.

Garcetti noted that US President Joe Biden instructed him to reduce visa wait times for Indians, underscoring the high priority given to this matter. "It's the first time, I think, in American history that a President has told an ambassador to get those visa waiting times down," Garcetti remarked. The US Mission is working to ensure that more Indian students can pursue education in the US, anticipating an increase in visa applications this year.


In 2022, the US consular team in India issued over 140,000 student visas, more than any other country. This record-breaking number is expected to increase as more Indian students seek academic opportunities in the US. Garcetti described the efforts to accommodate this surge as a "heroic" endeavor, with consular staff working weekends and organizing special days for student visa processing to meet demand.

Beyond student visas, Garcetti emphasized the broader impact of people-to-people connections, stating, "These are bonds that last a lifetime." He pointed out that such relationships transcend political or economic shifts, reinforcing the importance of fostering these ties. The American universities' appeal to Indian students lies in their vibrant communities, excellent research opportunities, and esteemed faculty.

The US is not only focused on student visas but also on reducing wait times for other visa categories. The Ambassador noted that the waiting period for tourist visas has been cut by 75%, with an average wait time now well below 250 days. This reduction is part of an ongoing effort to improve the visa application process and strengthen connections between the US and India.

Despite the challenges, Garcetti is optimistic about the future of India-US relations, with student exchanges playing a key role. As more Indian students choose American universities for their education, the ties between the two countries will continue to deepen, fostering a long-lasting relationship that benefits both nations.