In 2024, the number of US visas issued to Pakistani citizens is expected to reach an all-time high, according to officials from the US Embassy, as reported by ARY News.
US consulates in Karachi and Islamabad are processing over 10,000 visa applications each month. In 2023, these consulates issued the most visas on record, a trend that is set to continue into 2024.
Embassy officials stated that the number of visas issued by the Karachi Consulate and the US Embassy in Islamabad was the highest ever recorded in 2023. They expect this figure to increase even further by October 2024 due to a surge in applications from Pakistanis.
The officials also revealed that the waiting time for visa appointments has been significantly reduced, dropping from 440 days to 230 days. For those who have already submitted their visa applications, the embassy has introduced a system for reviewing cases via email.
Each application is carefully reviewed on an individual basis, with decisions typically made within three to four working days following the interview.
Regarding visa charges, the official clarified that the embassy only applies the standard application fee, which is consistent globally.
This increase in visa issuance reflects the growing interest of Pakistanis in traveling to the United States, driven by various factors including educational, business, and personal reasons.
The embassy’s efforts to streamline the application process and reduce wait times demonstrate a commitment to improving the visa issuance experience for Pakistani applicants. As 2024 progresses, it is likely that the record for the number of US visas issued to Pakistanis will indeed be surpassed.
