Indian travelers applying for a US B1/B2 (tourist or business) visa face varying wait times for interviews, depending on the city. According to the latest data from the US Department of State, Hyderabad offers the shortest wait of approximately 4.5 months. In contrast, Mumbai has the longest delay, with applicants waiting up to 11 months.
Here is the current average wait time across major US consular cities in India:
- New Delhi: 6.5 months average, 11 months next appointment
- Mumbai: 11 months average, 11 months next appointment
- Chennai: 5 months average, 5 months next appointment
- Kolkata: 5.5 months average, 5.5 months next appointment
- Hyderabad: 4.5 months average, 4.5 months next appointment
The average wait time reflects how long applicants waited from paying the visa fee to attending their interview over the past month. This measurement gives a general idea of recent processing speed but may not capture recent changes in demand.
The “next available appointment” shows the earliest booking slot currently open. This can change quickly with new slots or cancellations and is the best estimate for applicants starting the process now.
Tips for applicants:
- Check updated wait times often.
- Figures apply to those who need an interview (not eligible for a waiver).
- Plan early, as wait times vary by location.
Earlier in 2025, Chennai had the longest wait (up to 14 months), while Mumbai and Delhi were around 9.5 and 8 months. By July 2025, wait times dropped across the board—Chennai (8.5 months), New Delhi (4.5 months), and Mumbai/Hyderabad (around 3 months). Still, India remains one of the countries with the lengthiest waits for US visas.
