Indian travellers applying for US B1/B2 business and tourist visas continue to face long interview wait times, as per the latest data from the US Department of State updated in September 2025. New Delhi now records the longest delay, with appointment availability stretching to 12 months. In contrast, Chennai has seen a remarkable improvement, with average wait times dropping sharply from 8.5 months in August to just 2.5 months in September.

According to the latest figures, Hyderabad’s average wait time remains steady at three months, while Mumbai and Kolkata show minor fluctuations, now averaging 4.5 and 5.5 months respectively. The sudden rise in New Delhi’s wait period, up from 3.5 months in August to 12 months in September, has raised concerns for applicants planning urgent travel.

Average wait time refers to the typical delay from visa fee payment to interview, based on historical data. The “next available appointment” indicates the earliest date open for scheduling and can shift frequently as new slots are added. Applicants are encouraged to monitor embassy systems regularly to reschedule earlier appointments when possible.

Previously, Indian travellers could apply for non-immigrant visas in third countries such as the UAE, Qatar, or Singapore, where appointment wait times were often shorter. However, the US has now ended this practice, requiring applicants to apply in their home country or place of residence. This policy aims to prevent “visa shopping” but may lead to longer delays for many Indian applicants.

Existing third-country appointments are expected to be honoured, but new ones must be made in the applicant’s home country. The Department of State continues to update visa wait time data monthly and advises applicants to refer to embassy websites for the latest details on interview scheduling, rescheduling, and waiver options.

Lemon Tree Hotels Limited has announced the signing of its latest property, Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels, Haridwar. The new property will be managed by Carnation Hotels Private Limited, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Lemon Tree Hotels Limited. This addition further strengthens the company’s growing presence in Uttarakhand, catering to both religious and leisure travellers seeking a refreshing, value-driven stay experience.

Keys Select by Lemon Tree Hotels, Haridwar will feature 52 well-appointed rooms, a restaurant, conference hall, and recreational facilities including a fitness centre. The property enjoys a convenient location, approximately 32 km from Jolly Grant Airport, Dehradun, and 9 km from Haridwar Railway Station, with excellent connectivity via public and private transport.

Speaking on the occasion, Vilas Pawar, CEO, Managed & Franchise Business, Lemon Tree Hotels, said,

“With this signing, we will expand our leisure portfolio in Uttarakhand, a state where we have eight operational and nine upcoming properties in addition to this one. While expanding its footprint across the country in cities of all tiers, this signing by Lemon Tree Hotels perfectly aligns with the company’s vision of offering refreshing and comfortable stays across religious and spiritual destinations.”

Currently, Lemon Tree Hotels Limited (LTHL) operates 120+ hotels across 75+ cities in India and abroad, with a pipeline of 110+ upcoming properties. From major metro hubs like Delhi-NCR, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad to tier II and III cities such as Jaipur, Udaipur, Kochi, and Indore, as well as international locations in Dubai, Bhutan, and Nepal, the brand continues to deliver exceptional comfort, consistent quality, and a warm, refreshing experience.

In the highly competitive hospitality industry, where guest satisfaction hinges on every detail, efficient and reliable kitchen operations play a crucial role. From preparing banquet services and in-house restaurant menus to catering high-profile events, hotels require food service equipment that is efficient, durable, and innovative. That’s where CORNELL INDIA – India’s #1 Food Service Equipment brand – becomes an indispensable partner for hoteliers.

Proudly designed, engineered, and manufactured in India, CORNELL INDIA is a name synonymous with quality, dependability, and advanced engineering. Trusted by leading hotels across the country, Cornell delivers cutting-edge solutions that help streamline kitchen operations while enhancing food presentation and service efficiency.

A standout product in their offering is the Cornell Dual TempPlate – a versatile, dual-function unit that allows hotels to present both hot and cold food simultaneously in a single, space-saving solution. Ideal for buffet setups, room service trays, or banquet presentations, the Dual TempPlate reduces the need for multiple appliances, saves kitchen space, and ensures every dish is served at the perfect temperature. This innovation reflects Cornell’s focus on practicality and energy efficiency – crucial for large-scale hotel operations.

CORNELL INDIA’s extensive range of food service equipment is designed to meet the exacting needs of hotel kitchens, banquet halls, and event catering setups. Their products are efficient, reliable, affordable, and sustainable, empowering chefs and kitchen managers to serve culinary masterpieces consistently.

What sets CORNELL apart is their deep commitment to being Dependable in Quality, in Service, in Trust. Every piece of equipment is rigorously tested and crafted with precision, ensuring performance that aligns with the high standards of the hospitality industry. With strong after-sales support and tailored solutions, CORNELL INDIA makes it simple for hotels to upgrade their infrastructure and maintain peak operational efficiency.

For hoteliers seeking to enhance kitchen performance, reduce energy consumption, and deliver exceptional dining experiences, CORNELL INDIA offers the perfect solution.

Visit www.cornellindia.in or contact CORNELL INDIA directly at 82 96 22 33 77 / 96 06 42 33 77 or reachus@cornellindia.in to learn more about their specialized food service equipment designed for hotels.

CORNELL INDIA – Fueling Culinary Creativity in Hospitality with Dependable Indian Engineering.