India Tops List of International Students in the US in 2024

The US mission in India issued over 1 million non-immigrant visas in 2024, marking the second consecutive year of record-breaking numbers. This includes a significant increase in visitor visas, reflecting a surge in travel demand from Indians. Over 5 million Indians currently hold non-immigrant visas, and the mission continues to issue thousands more each day.

Visitor numbers from India to the US have quintupled in the past four years. By November 2024, over 2 million Indians had traveled to the US, a 26% increase compared to 2023. The embassy also reported advancements in visa processing, reducing wait times and simplifying renewal procedures.

In a groundbreaking move, a pilot program allowed Indian H-1B visa holders to renew their visas within the US. This streamlined process is set to be formalized in 2025, benefiting thousands of skilled workers.

India also emerged as the top source of international students in the US for the first time since 2009. In 2024, over 331,000 Indian students pursued education in the US, with graduate student enrollment rising by 19%. These numbers underscore the growing academic ties between the two nations.

The US mission further supported Indian immigrants by issuing tens of thousands of visas for family reunification and skilled migration strengthening the Indian diaspora in the US. American citizens in India benefited from enhanced consular services, including over 24,000 passports and improved safety alerts through the updated Smart Traveler Enrollment Program.