State Department Reports Record Nonimmigrant Visa Issuance in First Half of Fiscal 2024
The U.S. Department of State announced that global nonimmigrant visa issuances reached 5.2 million in the first half of fiscal year 2024, setting a record high. Specifically, B1/B2 visas totaled nearly 4.1 million, H-2A and H-2B visas combined were 205,000, employment-based immigrant visas were nearly 25,000, immediate relative visas exceeded 152,000, and J-1 and F-1 visas were nearly 134,000 and 115,000, respectively. The Department stated that processing capacity was enhanced through technology and streamlined services.
The U.S. Department of State announced on Tuesday that it issued a record number of nonimmigrant visas in the first half of fiscal year 2024 (October last year through March this year). The agency said it issued 5.2 million visas worldwide during the period, breaking the historical record.
Key highlights:
- Surge in visitor visas: Nearly 4.1 million B1/B2 visas and border crossing cards were issued, supporting tourism and business travel.
- Record high for H-2A and H-2B visas: 205,000 visas for temporary agricultural and non-agricultural workers were issued, meeting critical labor needs.
- Surge in employment-based green cards: Nearly 25,000 employment-based immigrant visas were issued, a 75% increase over fiscal year 2019.
- Family reunification reaches new heights: More than 152,000 immediate relative visas were issued, a record high for the period.
- Academic and cultural exchanges thrive: Nearly 134,000 J-1 exchange visitor visas and 115,000 F-1 student visas were issued, reinforcing the United States' position as a top destination for international education.
The State Department said its capacity to handle historically high demand was improved with the help of technology and streamlined services, such as waiving in-person interviews for some applicants. "We take seriously our role in supporting the travel and tourism industry, a critical sector and a key driver of U.S. job growth, while also safeguarding national security," the agency said.
The State Department issued a record 205,000 visas for temporary and seasonal workers in agriculture and other industries, along with 25,000 employment-based visas, a 75% increase over the same period in 2019.
Immigrant visa issuance also increased. In the first half of fiscal year 2024, one in four U.S. consulates and embassies issued more immigrant visas than in any year over the past decade. The agency also set a record in the family visa category, issuing 152,000 green cards to immediate relatives of U.S. citizens, a historical high for a six-month period.
The announcement followed a March statement by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) that it would use artificial intelligence (AI) to make the visa process faster, fairer, and more efficient.
