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U.S. Department of State Global Visa Wait Times
The U.S. Department of State’s Global Visa Wait Times page provides monthly estimates of nonimmigrant visa interview wait times at U.S. embassies and consulates worldwide, including both the next available appointment estimate and recent average wait time metrics. These figures are estimates only, can change as new appointment slots are released, and do not include visa processing or passport return times.
Current Wait Time Examples (Nonimmigrant Categories)
(Based on recent publicly available data from the Global Visa Wait Times table and related summaries)
B-1/B-2 (Visitor) Visas – Typical Next Available:
- Chennai (India): ~13.5 months
- New Delhi (India): ~9 months
- Mexico City (Mexico): ~10.5 months
- Beijing: ~1.5 months
- Hong Kong: ~0.5 months
H/L (Work) and Other Petition-Based Visas – Next Available:
- Chennai (India): ~2 months (H, L, O, P, Q)
- Hyderabad (India): ~2.5 months
- Mexico City: ~3.5 months
- Shanghai: ~1 month
- Many other global posts often show ~0 to 2 months for H/L categories, though this varies significantly by location and staffing.
F/M/J (Student/Exchange) Visas – Next Available:
- Often 1–2 months in high-volume posts; lower elsewhere.
Note: This sample reflects prior published data; the official Global Visa Wait Times page updates monthly. Actual wait times can differ, and posts may release earlier slots unpredictably, so frequent checks via the official tool are recommended.
Impact: Tracking post-specific wait times across B, H, L, and other categories supports more accurate forecasting of interview availability, helps avoid travel and onboarding disruptions, and informs internal timing for filings and employee communications. Early monitoring and flexibility in location choice or scheduling can mitigate scheduling risk.
DOL Updates H-2A Range Worker Wage Rate
The U.S. Department of Labor (DOL) has updated the Adverse Effect Wage Rate (AEWR) for H-2A range occupations, increasing the required monthly wage to $2,132.41 effective February 3, 2026. Employers must ensure all job offers, recruitment, and payroll practices comply with this new wage floor for covered work performed on or after the effective date.
As with all H-2A roles, employers must continue to pay the highest applicable wage under program rules. While limited to range workers, the update aligns with broader DOL wage reforms and requires coordination across immigration, HR, payroll, and finance teams.
Impact: This update sets a mandatory wage floor for H-2A range workers and requires prompt operational updates to avoid wage and certification violations. Early alignment across immigration, HR, and payroll teams will help mitigate risk and ensure uninterrupted program execution.
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