US Visa Renewal Policy Shift Could Slow Indian Business and Tourism Travel

• A shift back to pre-Covid visa renewal rules in the US may lead to longer waiting times for Indian applicants.
• The travel industry suggests that these changes, coupled with limited direct flights, are hindering the potential growth of India-US travel.

The U.S. has reverted to its pre-Covid visa renewal policy, potentially leading to extended wait times for many Indian applicants. This policy change only allows travelers to renew their visas without an embassy or consulate interview if their previous same-class visa is valid or expired within the last 12 months.

In November 2022, when wait times for the B1/B2 business and tourism visa interv