The US State Department says it will ease visa rules for select World Cup visitors by waiving the bond payments required from some applicants. Bonds will be dropped for teams competing in US matches and for fans from participating countries who already hold tickets and have enrolled in the visa priority system.
The US has imposed visa restrictions on 13 individuals tied to an India-based online pharmacy, KS International Traders, and its owner, alleging they trafficked illicit fentanyl to Americans. The move follows earlier sanctions against the firm and associates for supplying counterfeit fentanyl-laced pills that authorities say fueled the US opioid crisis.
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As of April 2026, US visa interview wait times differ sharply across Indian cities. Chennai reportedly offers the fastest access for visitor visa applicants, with appointments around four months away, while cities like Mumbai and Kolkata see longer delays. By contrast, student and work visa applicants usually face shorter wait times, making city choice a major factor for planning.
Indian enrolment in US institutions has fallen 6.9%, with over 3.5 lakh students still studying there. Stricter US visa rules, rising rejection rates, and deeper verification—reportedly including social media checks—are being blamed. Indian authorities say they are discussing the impact with US officials as concerns grow over how screening is affecting student mobility.
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