In a significant move to address the rising demand for U.S. visas in India, the United States Embassy in New Delhi, along with Consulates in Mumbai, Kolkata, and Hyderabad operated on Saturday, December 7. This initiative, dubbed “Super Saturday,” aims to accommodate applicants requiring in-person visa interviews and represents a broader effort to reduce wait times for first-time visa applicants.
The U.S. Mission to India initially launched Saturday interview days in January 2024 as part of a comprehensive strategy to streamline visa processing. December’s “Super Saturday” marks the fourth such event this year, emphasizing the Mission’s commitment to promoting legitimate travel between India and the United States.
Key Highlights of the Initiative
- Special Interview Days: The U.S. Embassy and Consulates are leveraging additional weekend operations to keep up with the high demand for visas.
- Remote Processing for Interview Waivers: To expedite processing, applicants with prior U.S. visas are benefitting from streamlined, remote case reviews.
- Expanded Staffing: The U.S. Department of State has increased the number of consular officers permanently assigned to Indian posts to meet growing demand.
Mark McGovern, Consul General at the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, noted the substantial progress made this year: “We’ve already processed more than one million visas across India. However, our efforts are not just about the numbers. Each visa issued represents a family reunion, a business opportunity, a new educational journey, or a tourist exploring America for the first time.”
He added, “The people-to-people ties between the United States and India have never been stronger. With demand at an all-time high, we’re working overtime—even on Saturdays—to ensure those ties continue to grow. Knowing the impact we’re making in people’s lives makes this work incredibly rewarding.”
Improved Wait Times and Increased Accessibility
The U.S. Mission to India has made considerable strides in prioritizing legitimate travel. The ongoing efforts have resulted in record numbers of student and employment visas being adjudicated, with wait times across all visa categories now at pre-pandemic levels or lower.
These measures are a testament to the strong bilateral relationship between India and the United States, underscoring the shared commitment to facilitating seamless travel for education, work, and tourism.
Summary
Information on the visa process and procedure to schedule appointment is available on the U.S. Visa Services website.
As immigration practitioners, we recognize the importance of timely and efficient visa processing. Initiatives like “Super Saturday” demonstrate how government agencies can adapt to meet demand while fostering international ties. Attorneys at Murthy Immigration Services are available to clarify any questions about the visa process or for those who require assistance with applications.