US Embassy in India Temporarily Suspends Visa Application Process
The US Embassy in India has announced a temporary closure of the visa application process, managed by VFS Global, in order to enhance services. This suspension will be in effect from July 12th to July 14th.
Temporary Suspension of Visa Services
According to the US embassy, visa applicants should note that the visa application process, including appointment bookings, calls, and fee payments, will be temporarily unavailable during the specified period. As a result, individuals seeking to apply for visas will experience a temporary disruption in accessing these services. The embassy assures the public that normal visa services will resume from July 15th onwards.
US Embassy’s Twitter Announcement
To inform visa applicants about the temporary shutdown, the US Embassy in India utilized its official Twitter handle. A message was posted addressing visa applicants, notifying them that the customer service center, VFS, will be temporarily closed for calls, fee payments, and appointment bookings from July 12th to July 14th. The embassy further mentioned that services would resume on July 15th.
Attention visa applicants! Our customer service center VFS is migrating to a new platform and will be temporarily closed for calls, fee payments, and appointment booking from July 12-14. These services will resume on July 15. For more information, please visit… pic.twitter.com/4ExqJ6QXii
— U.S. Embassy India (@USAndIndia) July 10, 2023
VFS Global’s Role in Visa Application Process
VFS Global is recognized as the world’s largest outsourcing and technology services specialist for governments and diplomatic missions. The company plays a crucial role in managing administrative and non-judgmental tasks related to visas, passports, and consular services on behalf of client governments. Their support is integral to the smooth functioning of the visa application process.
US Ambassador’s Announcement on Reduced Wait Time
In June, United States Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, announced a significant reduction in the wait time for first-time tourist visa interviews in the United States. During his address at IIT Delhi, Garcetti emphasized the embassy’s commitment to processing visas faster than ever before. He announced that the US Mission in India has set a goal to process at least one million visas in 2023, and they are already halfway towards achieving this target.
The temporary suspension of the visa application process by the US Embassy in India reflects their commitment to improving services and ensuring an efficient visa experience for applicants.
