Visit Visa for USA from Pakistan Processing Time: The Full Breakdown
How long does a US visit visa take from Pakistan? The honest answer: almost all the waiting is for the interview appointment. Here’s every stage, timed with the latest official figures.
Quick answer: US visit (B1/B2) visa processing from Pakistan = ~30 days interview wait in Karachi, ~5 months in Islamabad (US State Department, October 2026). The decision is usually given at the interview; the passport returns within days. If placed in 221(g) administrative processing, add 30–180 days.
In this guide
Every stage, timed
| Stage | Time |
|---|---|
| DS-160 + $185 fee | Same day |
| Interview wait — Karachi | ~30 days |
| Interview wait — Islamabad | ~5 months |
| Decision | At the interview |
| Passport return | A few business days |
| 221(g) admin processing | 30–180 days (if triggered) |
Islamabad vs Karachi
Two posts serve Pakistan: the Embassy in Islamabad (majority of applications) and the Consulate General in Karachi. Waits have fallen sharply — Islamabad’s median wait dropped ~2 months and Karachi’s ~9 months compared with a year ago. If you are flexible on location within Pakistan, Karachi is currently far faster. Always check the live State Department wait-times page before booking.
The $750 expedite option
From 1 July to 31 December 2026, the State Department is piloting an optional $750 premium fee for B1/B2 applicants: pay it on top of the $185 MRV fee (after booking a regular slot) and get an interview within 10 business days at participating posts, subject to capacity. Genuine emergencies (medical, etc.) may separately qualify for free expedited appointments via strict criteria.
Administrative processing
Pakistani applicants have a higher-than-average chance of 221(g) administrative processing — extra security checks after the interview. It is not a refusal, but it pauses everything: the embassy says most cases resolve within 60 days, though 30–180 is the realistic range. Track at ceac.state.gov; wait 90 days before inquiring. Do not make travel plans during it. For the full process, see the complete guide and how to apply step by step.
FAQs
How long is the US visa interview wait in Islamabad?
About 5 months for B1/B2 (US State Department, October 2026) — down from ~7 months a year earlier.
How long is the wait in Karachi?
About 30 days — currently the faster option.
How soon after the interview do I get my passport?
A few business days via courier, if approved on the spot.
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