Questions & Answers
From the Consul's Desk
The U.S. Visa Process in Overview
Despite the recent economic downturn, travel between India and the U.S. remains robust, with more direct air routes opening all the time. Vibrant communities of Indian expatriates now exist in every corner of the U.S., from Silicon Valley to Atlanta, Georgia, creating an ever-increasing demand for Indian-made goods, cultural programs, business meetings and family visits. Americans of Indian descent are increasingly prominent in U.S. politics, education, medicine and popular culture, stimulating further interest in India and its traditions.... (more)
U.S. Student Visas
The recent release of 10+2 class results has many students and parents contemplating plans for higher education, as are recent graduates of degree programs and professionals seeking growth. What should they study, where, at what cost and for what benefit? .... (more)
Temporary skilled worker visas, also known as H-1B visas,
continue to be the primary avenue for Indians in specialized occupations to go to work in the United States. Last year’s totals showed that India is the most prolific user of the category; and those employees, as well as their spouses and extended family members, fuel the daily workload of the U.S. Consulate General in Chennai. Chennai alone interviewed over 38,000 H-1B visa applicants during the last fiscal year, almost a quarter of the worldwide total for this category.... (more)
Visa Fraud: Don’t Do It!
Traveling to the United States? Great. Need a visa? Yes. Thinking of cheating the system? Don’t!
The United States welcomes all legitimate travelers and we are pleased that travel between India and America continues to grow and prosper. It benefits both our countries when this happens. But when it comes to U.S. visas, there are no shortcuts.... (more)
Demystifying the U.S. Visa Application and Interview Process
The application and interview process for a Non Immigrant visa to the United States is a fairly simple procedure. All the information can be found on our website at www.chennai.usconsulate.gov. Here is a step by step guide to what you can expect.... (more)