US Senators Sound Alarm Over Visa Delays for Indian Students

US lawmakers have expressed concerns about delays in visa appointments for international students, including Indians. A letter signed by 30 senators has been sent to the US Secretary of State asking for an explanation on the delays.

The F, M and J visas, which are required for academic studies, vocational courses and exchange programs respectively, have seen a shortage of timely student-visa appointments. The senators stated that 'no timely visa appointments are available' at several US embassies and consulates, causing concerns about students reaching the US in time for the beginning of the academic year.

According to Open Doors data, during the academic year 2024-25, the US housed 3.6 lakh students from India. Immigration attorneys have pointed out that staffing crunches and rigorous interviews, which include checking social media accounts, are leading to unprecedented delays in visa processing.