The U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata has rolled out a revised B1/B2 visa appointment structure. By segmenting interview scheduling by applicant profile rather than using a single, undifferentiated queue, this update marks a notable shift in how U.S. visitor visa appointments are organized in India. At present, this segmented structure is exclusive to the Kolkata post and is visible only when Kolkata is selected as the interview location on the official scheduling portal. App

Facing a US visa refusal can be a daunting experience. It often feels like a significant setback, especially when you have important plans or family commitments. However, a visa refusal is not the end of the road. With the right approach and understanding, you can navigate this challenge effectively. In this article, I will share practical and proven strategies to help you address US visa refusal cases confidently and increase your chances of success. Understanding Common Rea

On June 30, 2026, the U.S. Supreme Court struck down President Trump's Executive Order 14160, settling — for now — the most consequential immigration question of the term. By a 6-3 vote in Trump v. Barbara (No. 25-365), the Court held that the Fourteenth Amendment's Citizenship Clause guarantees automatic citizenship to virtually all children born on U.S. soil, regardless of their parents' immigration status. What the Court Decided Executive Order 14160, signed on Trump's fir

The U.S. Department of State (DOS) published a temporary final rule on June 9, 2026 (91 FR 34768), introducing an optional $750 premium fee to expedite interview scheduling for B-1/B-2 (business and tourism) visa applicants. We are hopeful that we should have an update on this anytime now. Key Timeline & Details Effective Dates: A 6-month pilot program running July 1, 2026 – December 31, 2026. The Benefit: Eligible applicants can secure a consular interview within 10 business