A business traveler from Mumbai has successfully secured a U.S. B1/B2 visa after a structured yet smooth experience at the city’s Offsite Facilitation Center (OFC) and the U.S. Consulate. The applicant, who completed their biometrics on June 5 and appeared for the consular interview on June 9, said that the visa status moved from “Approved” to “Issued,” officially completing the process.
In a detailed account, the applicant emphasized the importance of arriving early and staying prepared—both mentally and physically—for long queues and quick interactions.
Biometrics at OFC: Quick and Straightforward
The biometrics appointment, held at Mumbai’s OFC, was described as quick and efficient. Applicants are advised to arrive 30 minutes before their scheduled slot and carry only essential documents—passport, DS-160 confirmation, and appointment letter. Smart devices, bulky folders, and unnecessary paperwork are discouraged.
The OFC process involves:
- Document verification at the main gate
- Security screening via metal detector and X-ray
- Matching DS-160 details to the passport
- Fingerprint and photo capture
“If your documents are in order, this wraps up in under five minutes,” the applicant noted. However, limited parking and the lack of indoor waiting areas were cited as challenges. Mobile storage services nearby cost around ₹500, and DS-160 corrections or printouts may cost up to ₹2,000.
Consular Interview: Brief, With One Simple Question
The consular interview, held at the U.S. Consulate in Mumbai, began early in the morning with applicants lining up by 6:45 AM. Separate queues exist for immigrant and non-immigrant visa categories, and early arrival is crucial due to crowd volume.
Inside the consulate, the process included:
- Document and biometrics verification
- Multiple rounds of security checks
- Language preference declaration (with slower queues for translator-supported interviews)
The applicant reported that the actual interview took less than a minute, with just one question about the purpose of travel. “I said I was traveling for a business meeting with my company in Pennsylvania. The officer immediately said my visa is approved.”
Tips for Future Applicants
The applicant offered several practical suggestions:
- Elderly individuals, those with special needs, and parents with infants are given priority
- Choose English for faster processing if you’re comfortable speaking it
- Carry a water bottle and plan ahead for limited washroom access
- Store smart devices early to avoid delays—some counters offer storage at ₹100
- Confidence and clarity matter: one applicant was reportedly rejected for not being able to communicate clearly in English
“Feeling nervous is normal, but preparation makes a big difference,” the applicant added.