The number of applications for US visas from Pakistan has risen sharply, surpassing last year’s record, according to officials at the US Embassy.
This surge follows a significant reduction in the processing time for US visa applications, with over 10,000 applications now being processed each month.
Embassy officials noted that the number of visas issued by the visa offices at the Karachi Consulate and the US Embassy in Islamabad was the highest in 2023. “By October 2024, this number will be higher than last year, as the visa applications from Pakistanis have increased,” they said.
Previously, the processing time for US visas could extend up to 440 days due to various issues. Each application requires individual review, which contributed to the delays. However, officials now report that the processing time has been reduced to 237 days thanks to emergency measures, and further reductions are expected.
Officials clarified that no changes have been made to visa regulations apart from the reduced processing time. To handle the increased volume of applications, more visa officers have been assigned.
The visa section prioritizes students applying for study visas. Additionally, applicants who have previously been issued a visa are not required to undergo a re-interview, embassy officials confirmed.
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