What information does the Department of State provide about visa wait times?
The Department of State provides two key metrics:
- The estimated wait time until the next available interview appointment for visitor visas
- For B1/B2 visas with wait times exceeding three months, the average time applicants waited for an interview in the previous month
How often is wait time information updated?
Visa wait time information is updated monthly.
How are the wait times calculated?
- Months are calculated in 30-day increments
- Half months are calculated in 15-day increments
- These calculations include weekends and holidays when embassies are closed
What does the “Next available appointment” information tell me?
This column predicts when you can expect to receive an appointment at a specific location. However, new appointments are added regularly, so you may get an appointment sooner than indicated.
- Months are calculated in 30-day increments
- Half months are calculated in 15-day increments
- These calculations include weekends and holidays when embassies are closed
What does the “Average wait time” information represent?
This shows how long people typically waited for interviews in the previous month, measured from fee payment to visa interview date. This information is provided for B1/B2 visas only when the next available appointment is more than three months away.
Why might the average wait time differ from the next available appointment?
- Applicants can often move their appointments to earlier available slots
- Those who don’t move their appointments may experience longer wait times
- Regular release of new appointment slots affects these metrics
Can I get an earlier appointment after scheduling my interview?
Yes. Embassies and consulates release additional appointment slots regularly. You should check back frequently and follow the detailed instructions on your embassy or consulate’s website to move your appointment to an earlier available slot.
Do these wait times guarantee when I’ll get an appointment?
No. The average wait times reported do not guarantee a visa applicant will get an appointment within a specific time frame.
Can the in-person interview requirement be waived?
Some embassies and consulates may waive the in-person interview requirement for eligible applicants. Wait times for these appointments are not reflected in the published tables. Check your specific embassy or consulate website to find out if an interview waiver is available.
