Appointment Wait Times
On this page:
Overview
All applicants are processed as efficiently as possible and the U.S. Embassy/Consulate strives to keep the wait time for appointments as short as possible. The earlier you book your appointment, the more likely you are to be able to get the interview date and time you want.
Nonimmigrant visa applicants are encouraged to apply at least three months in advance of the intended date of travel. So remember, apply early!
Visa Processing Time
Provided the visa is approved at the time of the visa interview, most applicants receive their visas in about 10 days from their interviews. However, we do not guarantee that every case will be processed in 10 days time frame. Longer processing time may also be required in the following situations: (1) in cases where the applicant has failed to submit all the required elements of an application; (2) in cases where the Consular officer requires additional information from the applicant; and (3) in cases where the case requires additional administrative processing. For further information on administrative processing, see Administrative Processing Status Check page.
We recommend prospective travelers submit their applications well in advance. Applicants should refrain from contacting the Embassy Consular Section merely to inquire about the status of their application until the full processing time has expired. We also strongly recommend that applicants not purchase airplane tickets or make nonrefundable travel arrangements until they have actually received their visa; visa applicants should never assume their application will be automatically approved.