Latest US Visa Updates
Stay up to date with the latest news and changes from the US Embassy, State Department, and official visa authorities relevant to Indian applicants.
Last updated: June 2026 · Sources: US Embassy India, US State Department
Disclaimer: The updates below are curated from official sources for informational purposes. Always verify with the official US Embassy website before making any visa decisions. VisaBandhu is not affiliated with any government body.
Recent Updates
Intermittent Technical Issues on US Visa Appointment Scheduler (usvisa-info.com)
The US Visa appointment scheduling portal (usvisa-info.com) has been experiencing intermittent login errors, session timeouts, and slot-loading failures affecting applicants across India. If you are unable to log in or see available slots, try clearing your browser cache, switching to Chrome or Edge, or attempt access during off-peak hours (early morning or late evening IST). Do not create duplicate profiles and contact the helpline if login issues persist beyond 24 hours.
FIFA World Cup 2026: Special B1/B2 Visa Processing for Indian Ticket Holders
The US Embassy and Consulates in India have announced dedicated appointment slots and expedited processing for Indian nationals holding valid FIFA World Cup 2026 match tickets. Applicants must provide proof of ticket purchase (official FIFA confirmation email), intended travel dates, and a valid accommodation itinerary. Applications must be submitted at least 30 days before the first match date. B1/B2 visas issued under this category are single or multiple entry and are valid for the duration of the tournament. Contact VisaBandhu for help preparing your FIFA visa application.
US Consulate Mumbai: Improved Appointment Slots Available
The US Consulate in Mumbai has opened additional interview slots for B1/B2 visa applicants, reducing average wait times from 400+ days to approximately 60-90 days for eligible applicants.
DS-160 Form: Updated Questions on Social Media
The US State Department has updated the DS-160 non-immigrant visa application to include mandatory disclosure of social media usernames for all platforms used in the past 5 years. Ensure you fill this section accurately.
MRV Visa Application Fee Remains $185 for B1/B2
The US Machine Readable Visa (MRV) fee for B1/B2 non-immigrant visas remains at $185 USD for Indian applicants. Fees are non-refundable even in case of rejection. Ensure payment is made through the official US Visa Service Provider only.
Interview Waiver Program Extended for Renewal Applicants
The US Embassy in India has extended the Interview Waiver Program (IWP) for eligible visa renewal applicants. If your previous B1/B2 visa expired within the last 48 months and you meet other eligibility criteria, you may qualify to renew without an in-person interview.
Chennai Consulate Resumes Full B1/B2 Processing
The US Consulate in Chennai has resumed full processing of B1/B2 non-immigrant visa applications following temporary reductions. Applicants based in Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Karnataka should book appointments at the Chennai consulate.
ESTA Not Available for Indian Passport Holders
As a reminder, India is not part of the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Indian passport holders cannot use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and must obtain a valid B1/B2 visa before traveling to the United States.