If you’re planning a trip to USA, you’ll need to attend an OFC appointment for USA visa interview. This is where your fingerprints and photo are taken—no interview, just basic formalities. It is a small step, but missing it can cause delays.
What you need to know:
What is it? A fingerprinting and photo session before your interview.
Who needs it? Most visa applicants.
Where does it happen? At designated OFC centers across India.
What to bring? Your passport, DS-160 confirmation, and appointment letter.
Here are some important facts:
Over 1.2 million USA visas were issued to Indians in 2023.
India accounted for nearly 40% of USA H1B work visas in the past year.
USA student visa approval rate for Indians was around 85% in 2023.
Let’s go over everything to make sure you’re prepared for OFC appointment for USA visa.
If you’re applying for an F1 student visa, check out the F1 USA Study Visa Requirements to ensure you meet all conditions.
An OFC appointment for USA visa is required for most applicants. Whether you're a student, a working professional, or a tourist, chances are you will need to visit an Offsite Facilitation Center (OFC) for biometric verification before your visa interview.
OFC Appointment Requirements by Visa Type
Visa Type
Who Needs an OFC Appointment?
Notes
F1 (Student Visa)
Required
Needed before visa interview at USA Embassy/Consulate.
H1B (Work Visa)
Required
Must complete OFC appointment before the interview.
B1/B2 (Tourist & Business Visa)
Required (first-time applicants)
If renewing, check if eligible for Dropbox.
L1 (Intra-Company Transfer)
Required
Mandatory for new applicants.
O, P, Q, R (Specialty Work Visas)
Required
Depends on the case; check with USA Embassy.
If you’re applying for a student visa, check the USA Study Visa Requirements to ensure you have all necessary documents.
Is OFC Appointment for USA Visa Mandatory for All Applicants?
For most visa categories, attending an OFC appointment is mandatory before your interview. However, some applicants may be exempt under the Interview Waiver (Dropbox) program.
Who Is Eligible for the Interview Waiver (Dropbox) Program?
If you’re renewing your visa, you may qualify for the Dropbox program, which means you don’t need to attend an OFC appointment or interview. In 2024, more than 50% of USA visa renewals in India were done through the Dropbox program.
The Dropbox program reduces processing time by up to 40% compared to regular visa processing.
Here’s who is eligible:
Visa renewal applicants whose previous USA visa expired within the last 48 months (this used to be 12 months but was extended).
Applying for the same visa category (e.g., renewing an H1B while already on an H1B).
Previous visa was issued after age 14 (fingerprints already on record).
No past visa refusals (except those that were later approved).
Example: If your B1/B2 (Tourist Visa) expired 3 years ago and you are applying for the same visa type, you may be eligible for Dropbox and skip the OFC appointment. However, if your visa expired 5 years ago, you must attend an OFC appointment.
OFC and interview locations may differ. Your OFC appointment might be in a different city than your visa interview.
Example: If your visa interview is at USA Embassy in Delhi, your OFC appointment could be in a different part of the city or even another location altogether.
In 2023, over 1.2 million Indians applied for USA visas. Due to high demand, missing your OFC appointment can cause significant delays in rebooking.
What Are the Latest OFC Appointment for USA Visa Rule Changes for 2025?
If you're applying for USA visa in 2025, missing an update on OFC appointment rules could set you back by weeks. Some changes make the process easier, while others add stricter checks.
OFC Appointment for USA Visa Changes for 2025
Change
What It Means for You
Dropbox Eligibility Extended
If your previous USA visa expired within 48 months, you may not need an OFC appointment or interview. Applies to B1/B2, H1B, L1, and F1 renewals.
Limited Rescheduling
You can reschedule only once without paying a new visa fee. Any further changes mean you pay again.
Stricter Biometric Verification
If your fingerprints don’t match past records, you may face additional screening at the consulate.
More Scrutiny on DS-160 Details
Even a small mismatch (passport number, spelling errors) can lead to rejection. Double-check before submission.
Longer Wait Times During Peak Seasons
May–August (students) and November–December (holiday travelers) have delays of up to 6 weeks for appointments. Book early.
Example: If you’re renewing your H1B visa and your last visa expired in 2022, you may not need an OFC appointment and can submit your documents through Dropbox. But if your visa expired in 2019, you must book an OFC appointment and attend the interview in person.
How to Check OFC Appointment Availability & Wait Times?
OFC appointment slots fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Delays in scheduling your biometric appointment can push your visa interview by weeks. Here’s how to check availability and avoid last-minute issues.
Where to Check OFC Appointment Slots?
Method
How to Check
Official USA Visa Website
Log in at cgifederal.secure.force.com and check appointment dates after entering your visa details.
US Travel Docs Portal
Go to ustraveldocs.com for country-specific wait times and updates.
Visa Application Centers (VACs)
Call or visit your nearest OFC center for real-time slot availability.
Email Alerts from USA Consulates
USA embassy and consulates send updates on processing times and slot availability. Register for alerts.
How Long Are the OFC Wait Times in 2025?
OFC appointment wait times vary by location and visa type.
City
Average Wait Time
New Delhi
5–10 days
Mumbai
7–14 days (longer for work visas)
Chennai
4–8 days
Hyderabad
5–12 days
Kolkata
4–7 days
Peak seasons (May–August and November–December) see longer wait times, sometimes up to 30 days.
Example: If you’re an F1 student heading for the Fall 2025 intake, don’t wait until July to book your OFC appointment. By then, slots could be full for weeks, delaying your interview.
Tips to Get an Earlier OFC Appointment
Check daily – Slots open due to cancellations.
Be flexible – Consider traveling to another city with shorter wait times.
Book well in advance – Schedule your OFC appointment as soon as you pay the visa fee.
If you plan to study in the USA, check out the Cost of Studying in USA before making financial commitments.
What Happens During an OFC Appointment for USA Visa?
The OFC Appointment for USA Visa is a biometric verification step before your visa interview. No questions, no long waiting times—just fingerprints and a photo.
Step-by-Step Process of an OFC Appointment
Step
What Happens
1. Arrival & Security Check
Arrive 15 minutes early. Show your appointment confirmation. Electronics and large bags are not allowed.
2. Document Verification
Your passport, DS-160 confirmation, and appointment letter are checked. Any mismatch can cause a delay.
3. Fingerprinting
Your fingerprints (all 10 fingers) are scanned digitally. If you've applied before, they match it with past records.
4. Digital Photograph
A high-resolution photo is taken and used on your visa. Avoid glasses and bright clothing.
5. Final Confirmation
You receive a stamp or acknowledgment slip to confirm your biometrics are done.
Example: If your fingerprints don’t match records from a past USA visa, the system may flag it for extra checks. This could delay your visa interview by days or weeks.
How Long Does an OFC Appointment Take?
Average time inside:15–30 minutes
Busy days (Monday & Friday): Up to 45 minutes
What to Keep in Mind
No need to arrive hours early – Entry is allowed only 15 minutes before.
Mistakes in DS-160 can lead to rejection – Double-check all details.
Your photo will be on your visa – Wear neutral clothing and avoid accessories.
OFC Appointment for USA Visa Fees and Processing Time
Your OFC appointment fee is included in USA visa application fee, so there’s no separate charge for biometrics. However, knowing the exact cost and processing time helps you plan better.
US Visa Fees (Including OFC Appointment) – 2025
Visa Type
Fee (USD)
Approx. Fee (INR)
B1/B2 (Business/Tourist Visa)
$185
₹15,400
F1 (Student Visa)
$185
₹15,400
H1B (Work Visa)
$205
₹17,100
L1 (Intra-Company Transfer)
$205
₹17,100
O, P, Q, R (Specialty Visas)
$205
₹17,100
The fee is non-refundable, even if your visa is rejected.
You must pay the fee before scheduling your OFC appointment.
Payments can be made via NEFT, IMPS, or bank deposit in India.
Processing Time for OFC Appointment and Visa
Stage
Time Taken
OFC Appointment (Biometrics Submission)
15–30 minutes
Visa Interview (After OFC)
Usually within 1–15 days
Visa Processing & Stamping
7–21 days, depending on the visa type
Administrative Processing (if required)
Weeks to months
Example: If you are applying for an F1 student visa in June, expect delays since student visa applications peak between May and August. Book your OFC slot at least a month in advance.
What to Do After Your OFC Appointment for USA Visa?
Your OFC appointment is just one step in the visa process. Here’s what comes next:
Steps After the OFC Appointment for USA Visa
Step
What Happens Next?
Visa Interview at USA Embassy/Consulate
This is your final interview with a visa officer. Bring all required documents.
Visa Status Update
After the interview, check your visa status at ceac.state.gov.
Passport Processing & Stamping
If approved, your passport will be stamped and sent to the designated pickup center or couriered to your address.
Administrative Processing (if required)
If additional checks are needed, processing can take weeks.
Passport Collection
Once ready, collect your passport from the VAC or get it delivered.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Visa After the OFC Appointment?
Visa Type
Approval & Stamping Time
F1 (Student Visa)
7–10 days
H1B/L1 (Work Visa)
10–21 days
B1/B2 (Tourist & Business Visa)
7–15 days
Dropbox Renewals (No Interview)
5–10 days
Example: If your H1B visa interview is on a Monday, and it gets approved, you can expect your passport within 10–14 days. However, if your case requires administrative processing, it may take longer.
US visa processing time in 2024 (after interview):
F1 Visa (Student): 7–10 days
H1B Visa (Work): 10–21 days
B1/B2 Visa (Tourist/Business): 7–15 days
Dropbox Renewals: 5–10 days
Administrative processing cases take up to 60 days in some instances.
What If My Visa Application Is Delayed?
Check your email regularly – USA Consulates send updates on additional document requests.
Track your passport – Use ustraveldocs.com to see if it’s ready for pickup.
Avoid booking flights before visa approval – Visa processing times vary, and delays can happen.
Can You Reschedule or Cancel an OFC Appointment?
Yes, you can reschedule or cancel your OFC appointment, but there are limits. If you miss your appointment or need to change the date, you must follow specific rules to avoid delays in your USA visa process.
OFC Rescheduling and Cancellation Rules
Condition
Rescheduling Allowed?
Fee Required?
Need to change the date before the appointment
Yes, but only once
No extra fee
Missed the appointment (No-show)
Yes, but must book a new slot
New visa fee required
Canceling the appointment
Yes, but visa fee is non-refundable
No refund
Multiple reschedules (more than once)
No, unless you pay again
New visa fee required
How to Reschedule an OFC Appointment?
Log in to your USA visa account at cgifederal.secure.force.com.
Select Reschedule Appointment under the Appointments tab.
Choose a new available date and location.
Confirm the details and print the updated appointment confirmation letter.
Example: If your OFC appointment was on March 5, but you realize you cannot make it, you must reschedule before the date to avoid paying the fee again.
Important Reminders
You can only reschedule once for free. A second reschedule requires a new visa fee payment.
If you miss your appointment, you must rebook and repay the visa fee.
Rescheduling slots fill up quickly, so check daily for cancellations.
There are five USA Offsite Facilitation Centers (OFCs) in India where applicants must go for fingerprinting and photo submission before their visa interview.
5 major OFC centers in India (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata) handle over 500,000 biometric submissions annually.
More than 95% of applicants complete their OFC appointment in under 30 minutes.
US Visa OFC Locations in India
City
OFC Center Location
Nearest USA Consulate/Embassy
New Delhi
Shivaji Metro Station, Connaught Place
US Embassy, New Delhi
Mumbai
Trade Center, Bandra-Kurla Complex (BKC)
US Consulate, Mumbai
Chennai
Gemini Circle, Nungambakkam
US Consulate, Chennai
Hyderabad
Hitec City, Madhapur
US Consulate, Hyderabad
Kolkata
AJC Bose Road, Chowringhee
US Consulate, Kolkata
Things to Know Before Visiting an OFC Center
Your OFC location may be different from your visa interview location.
Arrive at least 15 minutes early, as late entries may not be allowed.
OFC centers do not conduct interviews – They only collect biometrics and photos.
Example: If you booked an OFC appointment in Mumbai, your visa interview will still be at USA Consulate in Mumbai, BKC. However, if your interview is in New Delhi, you must go to an OFC center in Delhi first, then attend your interview at USA Embassy.
OFC Appointment for H1B, F1, B1/B2, and Other Visa Types
If you're applying for USA visa, your OFC appointment is a mandatory step before your interview. Whether you're a student, a professional, or a visitor, you’ll need to get your fingerprints and photo taken before your visa is processed.
OFC Appointment Requirements for Different Visa Types
Visa Type
OFC Appointment Required?
Key Documents to Bring
H1B (Work Visa)
Yes
Passport, DS-160 confirmation, Visa fee receipt, I-797 approval notice
L1 (Intra-Company Transfer)
Yes
Passport, DS-160, Visa fee receipt, L1 petition documents
F1 (Student Visa)
Yes
Passport, DS-160, Visa fee receipt, I-20 form from university
B1/B2 (Tourist & Business Visa)
Yes
Passport, DS-160, Visa fee receipt
O, P, Q, R (Specialty Work Visas)
Yes
Passport, DS-160, Visa fee receipt, petition documents
What You Should Know About the OFC Process
H1B & L1 applicants must bring employer approval documents like I-797 or L1 petition papers.
F1 students need to carry their I-20 form, issued by their university.
B1/B2 applicants don’t need extra paperwork beyond the standard required documents.
Renewal applicants may not need an OFC appointment if they qualify for the Dropbox process.
Example: If you're an H1B applicant and forget your I-797 approval notice, your appointment may be canceled, and you’ll need to reschedule, delaying your visa interview.
Common Mistakes to Avoid During an OFC Appointment for USA Visa
The OFC appointment is a quick process, but simple mistakes can cause problems. If you show up unprepared, you may have to reschedule your appointment or delay your visa interview.
Top reasons for visa delays or rejections:
Incomplete documentation (30%)
Errors in DS-160 (20%)
Missed OFC appointment (15%)
Mismatched fingerprints or photo (10%)
Over 25% of rejected visa applicants make errors in their DS-160 form.
Top OFC Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake
Why It’s a Problem
How to Avoid It
Arriving Late
You may not be allowed in if you're late.
Be there at least 15 minutes early.
Missing a Required Document
Your appointment won’t be processed.
Carry your passport, DS-160, visa fee receipt, and any extra documents (I-20, I-797, etc.).
Errors in DS-160 Form
Any mistake in your details can cause delays.
Check your DS-160 carefully before submitting.
Wearing Glasses for the Photo
US visa rules don’t allow glasses in official photos.
Print your appointment letter and DS-160 confirmation.
Example: A student applying for an F1 visa forgets to bring their I-20 form to their OFC appointment. Their biometrics cannot be processed, and they have to reschedule the appointment, delaying their visa interview.
Other Important OFC Appointment Tips
Wear simple, neutral clothing – The photo taken at OFC will be used on your visa. Avoid bright colors or patterns.
Don’t arrive too early – Entry is only allowed 15 minutes before your appointment time.
Check your email for any last-minute updates – USA consulate may send changes to your appointment.
How to Prepare for Your Visa Interview After an OFC Appointment?
Once your OFC appointment is done, the next step is the visa interview at USA Embassy or Consulate. This is the most important part of the process, as the consular officer will decide if your visa is approved. Being well-prepared can increase your chances of approval.
What to Do Between Your OFC Appointment and Visa Interview?
Task
Why It’s Important
Review Your DS-160 Form
The officer will ask questions based on your application. Any errors can raise red flags.
Gather Required Documents
Missing documents can delay or even cancel your interview.
Practice Common Interview Questions
Confidence matters. Be ready to explain your purpose of travel clearly.
Check Your Visa Interview Location & Time
OFC and visa interview centers may be different. Make sure you go to the right place.
Dress Professionally
First impressions count. Wear formal or business casual attire.
Example: If you’re applying for an F1 student visa, be ready to answer why you chose your university, how you’ll fund your education, and what your plans are after graduation.
Common Visa Interview Questions and How to Answer Them
The visa officer will ask questions to assess whether you meet the visa requirements. Here are some common ones and how to handle them:
Question
Why They Ask It
How to Answer
Why do you want to travel to the US?
To confirm your purpose of visit.
Give a direct, honest answer. E.g., “I am attending a conference on [topic]” or “I got admitted to [university] for my master’s degree.”
Who is paying for your trip?
To check if you have sufficient financial support.
If self-funded, show bank statements. If sponsored, provide proof from your sponsor.
Do you plan to return to your home country?
To ensure you won’t overstay.
Show strong home ties—job, property, family, or future commitments.
Have you been to USA before?
To verify past travel history.
Answer truthfully. If yes, mention your previous trip details.
Why did you choose this university/job? (F1/H1B)
To see if your choice is genuine.
Highlight why this university or job is the right fit based on your qualifications.
Example: If you’re an H1B applicant, you may be asked, “How did you find this job?” A strong answer would be: “I applied through [company’s career portal] and was selected after multiple rounds of interviews based on my experience in [field].”
How upGrad Abroad Can Help You with Your USA Visa Process
Planning to study or work in the US? upGrad Abroad makes the visa process simple with clear guidance and expert support.
Visa application and DS-160 form resources
Guidance on OFC appointment and interview
Information on studying, working, and scholarships in the US
Tips to make your visa process smooth and hassle-free
Do all USA visa applicants need an OFC appointment?
No, not everyone needs an OFC appointment. If you qualify for the Dropbox (Interview Waiver) program, you may be able to skip the OFC appointment and visa interview. However, first-time applicants for most visa types (F1, H1B, B1/B2, L1, etc.) must attend an OFC appointment before their visa interview.
Can I schedule my OFC appointment and visa interview on the same day?
No, your OFC appointment must happen before your visa interview. Typically, OFC appointments are scheduled 1 to 5 days before the visa interview. Some consulates may not allow back-to-back appointments, so check availability in advance.
What happens if I miss my OFC appointment?
If you miss your OFC appointment, you will need to reschedule it before proceeding to your visa interview. If you don’t reschedule in time, your visa application may be canceled, and you may need to pay the visa fee again.
How early should I arrive for my OFC appointment?
Arrive at least 15 minutes before your scheduled time. You won’t be allowed in too early, and arriving too late may result in rescheduling.
Do I need to bring passport-sized photos for my OFC appointment?
No, you don’t need to bring photos. Your digital photograph will be taken at the OFC center. However, applicants under 14 years or above 80 years may need to submit printed photos instead of attending in person.
Can I reschedule my OFC appointment multiple times?
You can reschedule once for free. If you need to reschedule more than once, you may be required to pay the visa fee again.
How long does an OFC appointment take?
An OFC appointment usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, including waiting time. If it’s a busy day, it may take up to 45 minutes.
Is there a dress code for the OFC appointment?
There is no strict dress code, but you should wear decent, neutral-colored clothing. The photo taken at the OFC will be used on your visa, so avoid bright colors, patterns, and accessories like glasses or large earrings.
Do children need to attend an OFC appointment?
Children under 14 years usually don’t need to attend the OFC appointment in person. Parents can submit their documents and photos instead. However, requirements vary by consulate, so check the latest rules before scheduling.
What if my fingerprints don’t get scanned properly?
If the system fails to capture your fingerprints, you may need to redo them at the same center or even return on another day. Keep your hands clean and dry, and avoid cuts or scars on your fingertips before the appointment.
Is my DS-160 confirmation page required for the OFC appointment?
Yes, the DS-160 confirmation page is mandatory. Without it, you won’t be allowed in for your biometrics. Make sure the barcode on the form is clear and scannable.
How long does it take to get a visa interview after my OFC appointment?
Visa interviews are typically scheduled 1 to 15 days after the OFC appointment. The gap depends on visa category, consulate location, and availability.
Can I travel between my OFC appointment and my visa interview?
Yes, you can travel within India between your OFC and visa interview, as long as you attend both on schedule. However, avoid leaving the country, as you need your passport for the visa interview.
Does my OFC appointment location have to be the same as my visa interview location?
No, your OFC appointment and visa interview can be in different cities. For example, you can attend your OFC in Chennai and have your visa interview in Mumbai, but both must be in India.
What should I do if my passport has a typo and I already scheduled my OFC appointment?
If your passport has an error in your name, date of birth, or passport number, you should correct it before your OFC appointment. If the typo doesn’t match the DS-160 form, you may need to update your DS-160, reschedule your OFC appointment, or apply for a corrected passport.
With over 12 years of experience in the education sector, Harjeet specializes in study abroad counseling and visa management. She has a proven ability to guide students through university applications and visa processes, ensuring strict adherence to immigration laws. Her leadership background includes managing and mentoring teams, conducting training, and overseeing recruitment. As a Visa Manager, Harjeet excels in leading teams to efficiently process visas for multiple countries, driving operational excellence, and fostering strong partnerships with visa processing vendors.
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