Several outlets report that US tourist (B1/B2) visa processing for Indian applicants has become significantly slower, with interview wait times reaching around 9.5 months in major Indian consular areas. Business Standard and Times of India both cite long queues affecting applicants in Hyderabad and Mumbai, describing the delays as worsening for Indian citizens seeking to travel to the United States for tourism.
Times of India adds that the backlog places Indians among the world’s longest waiting periods for tourist visa interviews, making last-minute travel plans difficult. It also notes a contrast with other visa categories, saying student and work visas are seeing comparatively faster processing.
Both reports reference efforts to address demand through potential expedited appointment options. Times of India specifically mentions a pilot program that may offer faster interview scheduling for a fee, but it says the scope and whether it will cover Indian consulates remains unclear. Overall, the reporting indicates that applicants must plan well ahead to account for current interview delays for tourist visas.
