- US updates visa wait times: Mumbai tops delays at 9.5 months, while Chennai is quickest at 1.5 months.
- New data shows major variation in US visa wait times across metro cities, with big gaps between centres.
- Planning a US trip? Updated visa wait times reveal how long applicants in India’s metros are waiting.
Planning a US trip this year? For many Indian travellers headed there for tourism, business or to meet family, the biggest challenge often starts long before the flight: getting a visa interview slot. The US Department of State has released its latest Global Visa Wait Times update, giving a clearer idea of how long applicants in major Indian cities are waiting right now. If you're applying for a B1/B2 visa, here's what the new numbers mean and how to understand the “average wait time” shown in the official data.
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What Does “Average Wait Time” Mean?
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Before looking at the numbers, it is important to understand the terminology. The “average wait time” refers to how long applicants waited, on average, from the date of fee payment to the date of their interview in the previous reporting period. It does not necessarily reflect the next available appointment slot. Appointment availability can fluctuate based on cancellations, additional slots released by the consulate, staffing levels and seasonal demand. In short, it is a historical average, not a guaranteed timeline.
Average US Visa Interview Wait Times In Indian Cities
As per the latest update published by the U.S. Department of State Bureau of Consular Affairs on its Global Visa Wait Times page, last updated on 13 February 2026, here are the average wait times for B1/B2 (visitor) visa interviews in major Indian cities:
New Delhi – 6.5 months
Mumbai – 9.5 months
Chennai – 1.5 months
Hyderabad – 7.5 months
Kolkata – 2.5 months
Among the five, Mumbai currently has the longest average wait time at 9.5 months, while Chennai has the shortest at 1.5 months.
Also Read: Which Countries Can Indian Passport Holders Visit Visa-Free With A Valid US Visa?
What This Means For Travellers
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Recent travel reports have highlighted how wait times have fluctuated over the past year, especially as US consulates worked to clear pandemic-era backlogs. Although the situation has improved compared to peak delays seen earlier, demand remains high in certain metropolitan centres.
If you are planning a US trip in 2026, it is advisable to factor in these average timelines well in advance. Since appointment availability can change, applicants should regularly check the official portal and plan their travel dates only after securing a confirmed interview slot. For the most accurate and updated information, always make sure to refer to the official Global Visa Wait Times page maintained by the US Department of State.
