US Embassy in Pakistan slashes visa appointment wait time

Spokesperson says this past year saw highest number of visa applications embassy has ever handled

ISLAMABAD:

In a move to enhance visa processing efficiency, the US Embassy in Pakistan announced a substantial reduction in appointment wait times for various visa categories on Wednesday.

An embassy spokesperson disclosed that the wait time for visa appointments has been dramatically cut from 440 days to 230 days. 

This initiative is part of a broader effort to streamline the visa application process for Pakistani applicants, with a particular focus on student visas, business visas, family reunion visas, and more.

“We are working diligently to handle the increased demand and facilitate as many applicants as possible,” the embassy official stated, emphasising the commitment to minimising wait times.

Previously, the US Embassy in Islamabad and Karachi processed around 10,000 applications per month. The new measures are expected to improve this capacity significantly. The embassy is continually refining and expanding its processes to further reduce wait times and improve service.

For those who have already submitted their visa applications, the embassy has introduced a system for case reviews via email. Each application is individually assessed, with decisions typically made within three to four working days following the interview, the official explained.

In terms of fees, the embassy clarified that it charges only the standard application fee, consistent with global US visa application charges.

The spokesperson also highlighted that the past year saw the highest number of visa applications the embassy has ever handled, indicating a rising demand for US visas in Pakistan.