New York, Nov 29: In a landmark achievement, the US Embassy and Consulates in India have issued a record-breaking 140,000 student visas from October 2022 through September 2023, marking the highest in any year since FY 2017. The State Department emphasizes the substantial economic impact, with international students injecting up to $38 billion annually into the US economy.
During the peak student visa season (June-August 2023), consular officers across India issued 95,269 visas in the F, M, and J categories, witnessing an impressive 18% increase compared to the same period in 2022. According to Open Doors Report data, India has surpassed China, becoming the largest source of international graduate students in the US for the first time since 2009/10.
Indian graduate student enrollment soared by an astounding 63%, totaling 165,936 students, marking an increase of nearly 64,000 students compared to the previous year. Undergraduate student numbers also surged by 16%.
The 2023 federal fiscal year witnessed the State Department issuing a near-record level of non-immigrant visas globally, exceeding 10 million. Additionally, a record-breaking 442,000 visas were issued to temporary and seasonal workers, contributing to the American economy while addressing the root causes of irregular migration.
US Ambassador to India, Eric Garcetti, announced plans to increase staff strength and open new consulates to reduce visa issuance waiting times from India. He anticipates issuing 10-15% more visas than usual in the current calendar year, emphasizing the significant rise in recent weeks.
These accomplishments were made possible by innovative solutions, including the expansion of interview waiver authorities, allowing frequent travelers to renew visas without visiting an Embassy or Consulate. The US aims to further enhance its visa processes, showcasing a commitment to fostering international collaborations and bolstering its economy.
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