Monday, February, 03,2025

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US Mission to India issues over one million non-immigrant visas for second consecutive year

New Delhi: The US has issued over one million non-immigrant visas to Indians for the second year in a row, including a record number of visitor visas, showcasing the huge demand for travelling to the US for tourism, business and education.

In the past four years, visitor numbers from India have increased by five times and over two million Indians travelled to the US in the first eleven months of 2024, a 26 per cent rise over the same period in 2023, the US Embassy and Consulates in India said in a statement.

The US Embassy in India said, "Over five million Indians already have a nonimmigrant visa to visit the United States and each day the Mission issues thousands more."

The US Department of State completed a successful pilot program to renew of H-1B visas in the United States this year. This allowed many speciality occupation workers from India to renew their visas without leaving the US, according to the US Embassy in India statement. This pilot program streamlined the renewal process for thousands of applicants, and the Department of State is working to formally create a US-based renewal program in 2025.

"The US Mission to India issued tens of thousands of immigrant visas, facilitating legal family reunification and the migration of skilled professionals. These immigrant visa holders became permanent residents upon their arrival, adding to the already rich and sizable Indian diaspora community in the United States," the statement said.

According to the statement, the US Mission to India provided over 24,000 passports and other consular services to American citizens living and travelling in India. A new version of the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) debuted in 2024, making it easier for the embassy and consulates to contact US citizens during emergencies and send them safety and security alerts.

Increased processing of thousands of interview waiver-eligible nonimmigrant visa applications each week made it quicker and easier than ever for Indians to renew their nonimmigrant visas, according to the statement. By streamlining operations and utilizing global consular resources, the US Mission has been able to redirect its own resources to focus on in-person interviews, reducing wait times for all applicants.

More Indian students than ever before now have US student visas, according to the statement. The US Embassy in India noted,

"Many exchange visitors will now be able to remain in the United States and not need to return home for two years after completing their programs in the United States, offering them more opportunities to further their careers and education. The removal of India from the Exchange Visitors Skills List has provided greater flexibility for these Indian J-1 nonimmigrant visa holders."

The US Mission to India expressed dedication to fostering strong bilateral relations and providing exceptional consular services.

The statement said, "These achievements over the past year are a testament to the hard work and dedication of the Mission's staff and the enduring partnership between the United States and India." 

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Harmony in relationships is your priority. Compromise and understanding will strengthen your bonds.

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Focus on organization and details. A well-planned day will lead to productive results and personal satisfaction.

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Leo

Leadership will come naturally. Take charge of situations but remain humble for the best outcomes.

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Cancer

Emotional balance is key today. Spend quality time with loved ones to find comfort and clarity.

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Gemini

Today is perfect for networking and sharing ideas. Your adaptability will help you tackle unexpected changes with ease.

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Taurus

Patience will be your strength today. Financial matters might need attention, so think twice before making big decisions.

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Aries

Today brings opportunities for growth, but you'll need to stay focused. Trust your instincts to navigate challenges.

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Pisces

Your intuition will guide you. Trust your feelings and explore creative outlets for peace of mind.

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Aquarius

Innovation is your theme today. Explore unconventional ideas to solve lingering problems.

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Hard work pays off today. Your dedication and discipline will lead to well-deserved recognition.

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Sagittarius

Adventure is calling! Embrace new opportunities, but keep a balanced approach to risks.

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