There’s good news for Indians planning for USA visa renewal. The USA is working on a way to smoothen and shorten the visa renewal application process for Indians.
In light of this, from September 1, 2019, onwards, certain Indian citizens can apply for an interview waiver. This will reduce turnaround time for the visas affected significantly. It will also improve customer service in the country.
USA Visa Renewal – Who qualifies for an interview exemption?
The new rule will affect people applying to renew visas to the USA. It is however exempt to certain conditions. Applicants between the age of 14 and 79 years cannot apply for an interview waiver.
In certain cases even the exempted individuals i.e., those below the age of 14 years and those above the age of 79 years, may be called in for an interview.
Interview Waiver – The Process To Be Followed
Individuals who are eligible to apply for an interview waiver must schedule an appointment at the consulate to submit their passport, visa renewal application, and supporting documents.
There are currently 11 locations in India where this can be done. These centers are in:
- Delhi
- Mumbai
- Kolkata
- Chennai
- Chandigarh
- Hyderabad
- Kochi
- Jalandhar
- Ahmedabad
- Pune
Before the passport and documents are accepted, they will be crosschecked against a document checklist. An application for an interview waiver must also be submitted at this time. A response to this application will be sent to the applicant within 7-10 business days.
If the request for an interview waiver is denied, the applicant will be given a date for the interview. This interview will be held at the consulate where the documents were initially submitted.
Visa applicants are free to choose where they want to submit their documents. However, once the documents have been submitted, the post cannot be changed.
Also See
- US Visa Renewal in India – Everything You Should Know
- 3 USA Green Card Replacements For EB 5 Visa
- An Introduction to the Types of Business Visa to USA
- Types of USA Student Visa and How to Apply for them
- Everything You Need to Know Before Applying for a US Tourist Visa
- List Of Countries Indians Can Visit With A US Visa
