In 2024, US visa issuance to Pakistani citizens is on track to set a new record, according to US Embassy officials, as reported by ARY News. The US consulates in Karachi and Islamabad are currently processing more than 10,000 visa applications per month. This trend of high visa issuance, which saw its peak in 2023, is anticipated to continue throughout 2024.
The US Embassy in Islamabad and the Karachi Consulate set new records for visa issuance last year, with expectations for further increases by October 2024 due to the growing volume of applications from Pakistanis.
Significantly, the wait time for visa appointments has been cut from 440 days to 230 days. The embassy has also introduced a new email review system for applications, allowing for more efficient processing. Decisions on applications are now generally made within three to four business days following the interview.
Visa charges remain consistent with the global standard application fee.
This surge in visa issuance reflects a rising interest among Pakistanis in traveling to the United States for reasons including education, business, and personal matters. The embassy’s enhanced procedures and reduced wait times are aimed at improving the overall visa application experience, making it likely that the record for US visas issued to Pakistanis will be exceeded as 2024 progresses.