The peak travel season is upon us and the wait times to obtain a visa appointment at U.S. Embassies and Consulates abroad have increased substantially.  For example, the U.S. Consulate in Chennai, India, is currently listing a typical wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment of 146 days. The U.S. Embassy in London lists its typical current wait time at 40 days.  See the Department of State's Visa Wait Times webpage for current wait times at all U.S. Embassies and Consulates around the world.  Recent client reports reflect that some of the more remote U.S. Consulates, such as the U.S. Embassy in Nassau, Bahamas, are accepting third country nationals for visa processing, without requiring an advance appointment.  Those facing immediate travel needs may want to consider scheduling a flight through the U.S. Consulate in Nassau for just this purpose.  However, bear in mind that no foreign national is guaranteed visa processing at a U.S. Consulate other than their home country.

Further, please note that after a visa appointment is granted, we have seen instances of visa issuance delays based on security clearances.  As a result of these significant delays, foreign nationals requiring a visa to enter the U.S. should plan well in advance.

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