Latest news with #DS‑160
Time of India
21-07-2025
- Time of India
How to get a US Visa appointment faster in 2025
Planning to travel to the United States of America for the summer holiday? Updating your passport and packing essentials while keeping the weight of luggage in check might be at the top of your priority list, but there's another point you can't forget – it's scheduling your visa appointment! Now, navigating the US visa appointment process can feel like a marathon, because honestly, it is so! From long wait times, sudden cancellations, to figuring out shifting embassy policies, all of it only makes it quite overwhelming. However, with the right mix of timing, strategy, and up-to-date know-how, you can breeze through this one-of-a-kind tedious procedure. And that's why we're here! From leveraging interview waivers and expedited requests to smart consulate-shopping and technology tools, this carefully curated guide delves into effective methods for booking a visa appointment faster in 2025. Take a look. Book early and secure the first slot This first step is extremely important, so that you don't end up chewing your manicured nails after: BOOK YOUR APPOINTMENT EARLY! Once your DS‑160 form is submitted and the fee is paid, immediately schedule the earliest available visa interview through USTravelDocs. Why the hurry? Although US embassies add new interview slots regularly, the demand remains high. This initial slot activates other options like rescheduling, expedited requests, or interview waivers. Even if it's months away, having that booked gives you flexibility and peace of mind. Activate Interview Waiver (Dropbox) if eligible In February 2025, the Department of State expanded its Interview Waiver rules: renewals within 12 months (or 48 months for some visas), prior visa holders across categories, diplomats, and H‑2 workers may now qualify for a dropbox submission, no interview required. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Ready for a Glow-Up? [Get Your Reading Now] Undo Glow-Up Packages from $15 [Sign Up] Undo Affect Your Future Now! (Book Today) Undo To put it in simpler terms, if you're renewing a visa in the same category and meet eligibility, you might only need to drop off your passport; no interview will be needed. What's more? Dropbox wait times tend to be weeks, not months, much quicker than an interview slot. Monitor for cancellations daily The more you stay vigilant, the better your shots (and slots) are! Slots open frequently due to cancellations. Embassies routinely release appointment slots, and openings are quickly snatched. The internet is a goldmine of guidelines in this case, and insiders recommend checking 2-4 times a day, at random times (e.g., around 12 AM and 12 PM local time), refreshing the calendar constantly, and being ready to click when a slot turns green. This exercise makes it swifter than others to snag earlier slots. However, it is recommended to avoid excessive refreshing, which can lock your account for up to 24 hours. Be flexible with location In other words, get savvy with consulate shopping! Wait times vary significantly by post. How does consulate shopping help? As of June 2025, Kolkata B1/B2 interviews are around 6 months, while Delhi is at 8 months, and Mumbai nearly 9.5 months. So, if you can travel, apply at a less crowded consulate. This consulate shopping strategy is widely used. And don't worry, applying at a less busy consulate is fully legal as well. Submit an expedited appointment request If you have compelling reasons, like a medical emergency, a funeral, an upcoming study program start, or ESTA denial, you can request an expedited appointment. First, book the earliest regular slot, then submit your expedited request with documentation via the embassy system. Approval is discretionary and is granted depending on consular capacity and evidence quality. Follow embassy updates and track slot releases Embassies occasionally release bulk slots ahead of peak seasons. For example, in May 2025, the US Embassy in India added thousands of student appointments in preparation for the academic year. These updates often align with major intake periods. Keep checking embassy websites for similar updates, especially before major intake seasons or global events like the World Cup. So, stay alert to embassy announcements to grab these hard-to-find slots. Use technology smartly Some applicants use browser extensions or scripts that auto-refresh the USTravelDocs calendar, which helps catch openings quickly. Third‑party services, like Telegram bots, and visa forums (like VisaJourney) can send updates on slot availability. However, avoid scams and over‑promised 'agents.' These can lock your account or worse. Prepare for your interview beforehand This one's quite important, as it tends to get lost in the process of packing and panicking! First, visa category matters. B‑1/B‑2 waits differ from F‑1/J, H‑1B, etc. Know yours and check category‑specific timelines. Second, keep all the essential documents well-arranged. Whether you're seeking expedited processing or just moving quickly, ensure DS‑160, passport, fee receipt, and supporting evidence (e.g., school admission letter, medical note), and waiver eligibility proof are firmly in place. Finally, keep an eye out for updates on policy changes. 2025 could bring new pathways: one proposal under review suggests allowing tourist visa applicants to pay a $1,000 premium fee for fast-track processing. Stay informed via the top embassy and US State Department channels. This new paid option may launch later in the year and revolutionize queue-jumping. US Adds $250 Visa Integrity Fee: What It Means For Indian Travelers & Tech Workers | Explained
Time of India
12-07-2025
- Time of India
US visa can be revoked even after approval, warns embassy: 5 mistakes that can get F‑1 students deported
US Visa laws: 5 mistakes that can get F‑1 students deported The US Embassy in India has issued a stern advisory: Even after you've secured a visa, your stay is neither guaranteed nor untouchable. They confirmed that visa monitoring continues post‑approval —and rule‑breaking can lead to revocation and deportation. This warning comes amidst a crackdown on immigration and tighter scrutiny of student activities, including academic enrolment, social media use, and any run-ins with the law. Here are five key mistakes that can cost students their US visa. Skipping classes or leaving your course without notifying If you drop out, skip classes, or quit your programme without alerting your school, your F‑1 status can be terminated—which means your visa can be revoked and future US visas denied. Tip: Stay enrolled full‑time. Keep in close contact with your Designated School Official (DSO) if your plans change. Violating US laws—even 'minor' ones You might think a traffic fine or minor arrest isn't a big deal. Think again. In 2025, several Indian students were deported over misdemeanours such as driving without a licence or DUI incidents. Even a parking ticket may trigger SEVIS termination. Tip: Follow all local laws carefully. Remember that interactions with law enforcement—even over trivial matters—can jeopardise your visa. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Đây có thể là thời điểm tốt nhất để giao dịch vàng trong 5 năm qua IC Markets Tìm hiểu thêm Undo Social media missteps—old accounts tracked You must list all social media usernames and handles from the last five years on the DS‑160 form. Omitting accounts increases the risk of rejection or future ineligibility. Worse, posting politically sensitive content—like pro‑Palestinian views—can trigger visa revocation under new 'catch and revoke' policies. Tip: Disclose every account. Make your profiles review-ready, and remove or archive any politically charged posts. Engaging in political activism or protests In early 2025, numerous student visas were revoked after peaceful campus protests—mainly about Gaza—under alleged terrorism/security grounds. Prominent cases also involved travel by masked immigration officials to arrest activists at havens like Columbia and Tufts. Tip: Avoid campus protests or public dissent. Stay aware of evolving rules about campus expression. Overstaying your permitted time Even slight overstays matter. Reports suggest more than 4,700 student visas were revoked in early 2025, with many associated with overstays or unlawful presence. A rise in revoked SEVIS records led to fear, court filings, and uncertainty among students. Tip: Track your I‑20 and SEVIS dates. File early for extensions and consult your DSO if your plans shift. The bigger picture Student visa approvals have plunged by about 27% between March and May 2025, with only 9,900 F‑1 visas issued to Indians compared to nearly 15,000 in 2023. US universities could lose up to US$1 billion in revenue due to these policy changes and declining enrolments. The trend reflects a larger 'privilege‑not‑right' doctrine under the Trump administration's second term—putting student travel and stay under continual scrutiny . TOI Education is on WhatsApp now. Follow us here . Ready to navigate global policies? Secure your overseas future. Get expert guidance now!
Time of India
24-06-2025
- Sport
- Time of India
Can you get a US tourist visa in time for the 2026 World Cup? Here's the wait time in your city
Indian football fans planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the US face varying visa wait times. Applying for a B1/B2 visitor visa is essential, with Chennai experiencing the longest delays at 14 months. Kolkata offers the shortest wait at 6 months. Exploring visa options in nearby countries like Doha and Colombo could expedite the process. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Mumbai : 9.5 months : 9.5 months New Delhi : 8 months : 8 months Hyderabad : 7 months : 7 months Kolkata : 6 months : 6 months Chennai: 14 months Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Fill out the DS‑160 online. Pay the visa fee (USD 185). Book an appointment at the US Embassy or Consulate. Prepare your documents and attend the interview. Date Match No. Venue City / Region June 12, 2026 4 SoFi Stadium Los Angeles (Western) June 13, 2026 5 Gillette Stadium Boston (Eastern) June 13, 2026 7 MetLife Stadium East Rutherford / NYC (Eastern) June 13, 2026 8 Levi's Stadium Santa Clara (Western) June 14, 2026 9 Lincoln Financial Field Philadelphia (Eastern) June 14, 2026 10 NRG Stadium Houston (Central) June 14, 2026 11 AT&T Stadium (as 'Dallas Stadium') Arlington / Dallas (Central) June 15, 2026 13 Hard Rock Stadium Miami (Eastern) June 15, 2026 14 Mercedes‑Benz Stadium Atlanta (Eastern) June 15, 2026 15 SoFi Stadium Los Angeles (Western) June 16, 2026 17 MetLife Stadium East Rutherford / NYC (Eastern) June 16, 2026 18 Gillette Stadium Boston (Eastern) June 19, 2026 29 Lincoln Financial Field Philadelphia (Eastern) June 19, 2026 30 Gillette Stadium Boston (Eastern) June 19, 2026 31 Levi's Stadium Santa Clara (Western) June 19, 2026 32 Lumen Field (Lumen Field) Seattle (Western) June 22, 2026 41 MetLife Stadium East Rutherford / NYC (Eastern) June 22, 2026 42 Lincoln Financial Field Philadelphia (Eastern) June 22, 2026 43 AT&T Stadium Arlington / Dallas (Central) June 22, 2026 44 Levi's Stadium Santa Clara (Western) June 25, 2026 57 AT&T Stadium Arlington / Dallas (Central) June 25, 2026 59 SoFi Stadium Los Angeles (Western) June 27, 2026 67 MetLife Stadium East Rutherford / NYC (Eastern) June 27, 2026 68 Lincoln Financial Field Philadelphia (Eastern) June 27, 2026 69 Arrowhead Stadium Kansas City (Central) June 27, 2026 71 Hard Rock Stadium Miami (Eastern) Round of 32 : Los Angeles, Boston, Houston, New York/New Jersey, Dallas, Atlanta, Seattle : Los Angeles, Boston, Houston, New York/New Jersey, Dallas, Atlanta, Seattle Round of 16 : Philadelphia, Houston, New York/New Jersey, Seattle : Philadelphia, Houston, New York/New Jersey, Seattle Quarterfinals : Boston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami : Boston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami Semifinals : Dallas, Atlanta : Dallas, Atlanta Third Place match : Miami (July 18) : Miami (July 18) FINAL: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford — July 19 With the FIFA World Cup 2026 set to begin on June 11 across the United States, many Indian football fans are starting to make their travel plans. The biggest question is: Will it be possible to secure a US tourist visa in time? The answer depends largely on where you you're traveling to watch the World Cup, you'll need a B1/B2 visitor visa. This allows you to travel across the US for tourism, short trips, or attending events like the World to the latest data, wait times for a US B1/B2 visitor visa vary across Indian cities:With wait times ranging from 6 to 14 months across Indian cities, applying early is critical. Fans in Kolkata and Hyderabad have the best chance of obtaining a visa in time, while those in Chennai and New Delhi must move quickly. Fans applying from Chennai face the longest wait, making it challenging to obtain a visa before the World Cup. The closer it gets to the World Cup, the harder it will be to secure an appointment and travel to the those considering applying from countries within roughly a five‑hour flight of India, wait times vary. In Dubai, the wait for a visitor visa is about 8 months, while in Abu Dhabi it is roughly 5.5 months. In Doha, appointments can be secured within 1 Muscat, the wait is 3 months, and in Kathmandu, it is roughly 6.5 months. In Bangkok, appointments are available within 1 month, and in Colombo, there is no wait for visitor visa Indian wait times range from 6 to 14 months, long delays are also seen in other countries. Colombia has a wait time of roughly 15 months, Honduras 14 months, and Mexico (multiple locations) between 10 and 16 you're planning to apply for a tourist visa, make sure you have:– A valid passport– A completed DS‑160 form– A digital, passport‑style photo– Proof of funds and evidence of ties to India– Documentation of any recent trips to the USFans from certain countries can skip the visa process altogether. The US Visa Waiver Program allows visitors from 42 nations — including Japan, South Korea, Australia, and most of Western Europe — to enter the US for up to 90 days after applying online for an ESTA.
Time of India
12-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Planning to study in the US? Here's what you need to know about the F-1 visa
The US F-1 visa enables international students to study in America. Eligibility requires admission to a SEVP-approved school, proof of English ability, and financial capacity. The application process involves obtaining Form I-20, paying fees, completing the DS-160 form, and attending interviews. Maintaining visa status requires full-time enrollment and adherence to regulations. Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Gain admission to a SEVP‑approved school Prove English ability and financial capacity Confirm intent to return home after studies Receive your Form I‑20 from the school Pay the SEVIS fee (~US $350) Complete DS‑160 form and print confirmation with barcode Schedule biometrics at a VAC and visa interview at the US embassy Pay the visa application fee (US $185) Also Read: US embassy issues stern warning amid Indian student handcuffing row Tired of too many ads? Remove Ads Valid passport (6+ months beyond stay) Form I‑20 and SEVIS fee receipt DS‑160 confirmation and visa‑fee receipt Academic records, test scores, proof of funds Your academic plan, finances, and family ties to India Strength of intent to return post studies Be punctual, clear, and honest Enrol full‑time at your institution Seek permission before working off‑campus Keep valid documents and inform your DSO of changes Navigating a US student visa can be complex, but the US F‑1 visa offers international students a clear route to study in America. This guide unveils key steps-from eligibility and application to maintaining status and work F‑1 visa is for academic program students at US institutions. To be eligible, you must:One of the common visa denial reasons—such as insufficient funds or weak academic intent, and one must check thorough documentation and undergo a genuine interview approved, comply with F‑1 rules:F‑1 students may work on‑campus (typically up to 20 hrs/week during semesters) and qualify for Optional Practical Training OPT ) after graduating—with STEM graduates eligible for a 24‑month you may apply for OPT or seek H‑1B sponsorship, paving a path to longer‑term US stay.
