Extra 250,000 US Visa Appointments and What’s Next for Indian Students

The US Embassy opened an additional 250,000 visa appointments for Indians. These new visa appointments will help lakhs of Indian applicants have timely visa interviews. In 2024, the US Mission to India has reached a big milestone. The US has processed over 10 lakhs visa applications from Indians for the second year in a row. This is a major achievement in US-India relations.

According to the US Embassy in New Delhi, this success reflects the growing demand for the United States, particularly among students, skilled talent, and tourism.

Record-Breaking Visa Numbers

The US Embassy in New Delhi on September 30th, 2024 announced:

• An additional 250,000 visa appointments have been opened for Indians.
• More than 1.2 million Indians have already travelled to the United States in 2024.
• This is a 35% increase compared to the same time in 2023.

These numbers highlight the strong relationship between the US and India. In his recent statement, US Ambassador to India Eric Garcetti highlighted, "Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Joe Biden set an ambitious goal to improve and expedite the visa process, and I'm proud to say that we have delivered on that promise." The US Embassy also shared that they are working hard to process more visas to meet the high demand.

India’s Leading Contributors to US Student Populations

When it comes to international education, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Punjab are leading the way. Andhra Pradesh and Telangana together send 12.5% of all students going abroad, while Punjab contributes another 12.5%.

Approximately 33% of students pursue Bachelor’s degrees, 60% for Master’s degrees, and 7% choose diplomas or professional certifications. This reflects an increased focus on career-oriented education that aligns with the current opportunities in the US job market.

The Top 5 US States for Growth in 2024-25

For Indian students and professionals, the booming US job market offers significant potential. Here are the top five states with the highest job growth rates:

1. Idaho leads the nation with an 11.7% job growth rate. The state’s diverse economy, focusing on technology, manufacturing, and healthcare, is attracting both businesses and talent.
2. Utah closely follows with an 11.6% job growth rate, as a hub for tech and outdoor recreation industries.
3. Florida has recorded a 9.8% job growth rate, driven by booming sectors like tech, healthcare, and hospitality.
4. Nevada’s job market grew by 9.6%, supported by strong construction, tourism, and tech industries.
5. Texas with a 9.4% growth rate, continues to benefit from its robust oil and gas industries, alongside expanding technology and manufacturing sectors.

While these states lead in job growth, regions like the US Virgin Islands, Washington D.C., Hawaii, Louisiana, and Maryland are steadily working towards raising the economy to surpass previous record levels, reflecting the resilience of the US economy overall.

Concerns from Indian Students

Despite the huge visa numbers and growing opportunities, Indian students still face challenges when planning their overseas education.

• Affordability: The rising costs of tuition fee, accommodation, and living expenses make affordability a top concern. Students increasingly prioritise value for money over the prestige of universities.
• Visa Complexities: Many students face challenges in obtaining visas due to extensive documentation, delays, and visa interview fears, adding stress to the process.
• Career-Oriented Courses: Students are now looking for courses that not only provide education but also career-oriented skills that translate into job opportunities.

We understand that concerns about affordability, visa complexities, and career planning can make the process challenging. That’s where Sirian Overseas comes in to offer the right support:

• Affordable Education: We connect you with top universities that offer high-quality programs at a much affordable tuition fee.
• Visa Help: Our free F1 Visa Mock Interviews are conducted by native Americans trained by former consulate officers. These realistic mock interviews give you the confidence to excel during your actual F1 visa interview, with a 99.8% success rate.
• Career Guidance: Sirian Overseas helps you gain the skills and confidence to stand out in the global job market. Our training programs teach in-demand skills, keep you updated with industry trends, and help you build a standout portfolio. We also offer resume crafting, interview prep, and job placement support.
• Internships: We provide international internship opportunities to help you gain hands-on experience, working on real-world assignments that develop your practical skills. This experience also allows you to network with industry professionals and mentors, preparing you for success in the global job market.
• Placements: Our extensive network connects you with top employers worldwide. With our dedicated support, you’ll smoothly transition into your chosen career.

With the continued growth of visa opening numbers and strong job markets across multiple states, the United States remains an attractive destination for Indian students and professionals. If you're considering studying in the United States, now might be the perfect time to start. 

Connect today for easy and effective assistance with your visa and study plans!