Our relationship with India is important, says Consul General Melinda Pavek while inaugurating relocated Visa Application Centre in Kolkata

“Our relationship with India is important.  And facilitating people-to-people connections is at its core,” Consul General Pavek said.

She said, “Our nations recognize the immense potential in collaborating across critical and emerging sectors such as technology, healthcare, renewable energy, and space exploration."

"Streamlined visa processes and facilities that prioritize efficiency and transparency facilitate these collaborations, empowering Indians and Americans to explore new ventures and partnerships," she said.
The officials further said: "This year, we anticipate more than 1.8 million travellers from India with travel to the United States, further growing the ties between our nations.”    

The relocated VAC will be located at Pataka House (4th Floor), 57B, Mirza Ghalib Street, Taltala, Kolkata – 700016 and is operational starting July 28, 2024.  

The facility replaces the center in Jasmine Tower, which was closed effective July 27, 2024.

Consul General Pavek was joined by Jeffrey Miles, Visas Coordinator for the U.S. Mission in India, who highlighted the increase in interest in travel to the United States, praising the work of consular officials across the country as they worked to reduce wait times.    

“As we celebrate the opening of this newly relocated facility, I am reminded of the remarkable achievements in the past year by our consular staff throughout India,” he said.  “In 2023 alone, the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India processed a record-breaking 1.4 million U.S. visas. This includes over 700,000 visitor visas, demonstrating the immense interest in travel and cultural exchange between India and the United States.”