In 2024, the US consulates in Karachi and Islamabad are anticipated to see a historic surge in visa applications from Pakistan, with over 10,000 applications expected to be processed each month. This increase builds on a remarkable year in 2023, when the US embassy in Islamabad and the Karachi consulate issued the highest number of visas on record.
In response to this surge, the US embassy has made significant strides in managing the influx by reducing the wait time for visa appointments. Previously, applicants faced a wait of up to 440 days, but this has now been cut to 230 days, streamlining the process and improving efficiency.
Applicants who have already submitted their visa applications can now easily track their status through a new email system. This system allows for quick and convenient updates on application progress. Typically, decisions are made within three to four days after an interview, ensuring timely responses for applicants.
This rise in visa applications underscores the growing desire for travel between Pakistan and the US. The US consulates and embassy are dedicated to accommodating this increased demand by refining their processes and reducing wait times, ultimately making it easier for Pakistani applicants to secure US visas.