Schedule OFC Appointment for US Visa 2025: Fees, Documents & Centres

What is OFC Appointment for US Visa?

If you're applying for a US visa, you’ve likely come across the term OFC appointment and wondered, “What on Earth is that?”

Well, OFC stands for Offsite Facilitation Center, a location separate from the US Embassy or Consulate where your biometric data—namely your fingerprints and photo—are collected before your actual visa interview.

Think of it as a pit stop on your road to the US. You won’t be grilled with questions at this appointment. It’s more about identity verification, snapping your best passport-style mugshot, and getting those fingerprint scans done smoothly.

Who Needs an OFC Appointment for US Visa?

If you’re applying for a non-immigrant US visa—like F1 (student), B1/B2 (visitor/business), H1B (work), or even L1—you probably need an OFC appointment.

But here’s the catch:

• First-time applicants: Mandatory.

• Renewals within dropbox eligibility (no interview): OFC might not be required.

• Children under 14 or applicants over 80: Often exempt, depending on the visa type.

Always confirm on the US Travel Docs website or your specific embassy/consulate page to know if you're required to attend.

Processing Time of OFC Appointment for US Visa

The good news? OFC appointments are typically quick.

Here’s what to expect:

• Duration: Usually done in 15–30 minutes.

• Appointment slots: Often available within a few days to 2 weeks, depending on demand.

• Processing time post-OFC: The biometric data gets uploaded instantly. Then, you wait for your visa interview or further instructions.

Pro tip: Don’t schedule your OFC and visa interview on the same day—give yourself at least 24-48 hours between them.

Documents Required for OFC Appointment for US Visa

Here’s your checklist 🧾—carry these or risk a wasted trip:

• Passport (current + old if applicable)

• DS-160 confirmation page with barcode

• Appointment confirmation letter

• Visa fee receipt (if applicable)

• Printed photo (only for some categories)

• Any other supporting documents as advised during scheduling

Bonus Tip: Double-check whether you need a passport-size photo, especially for kids under 14.

How to Schedule OFC Appointment for US Visa?

Ready to book? Follow this step-by-step:

1. Create a profile at www.ustraveldocs.com.

2. Complete the DS-160 form online.

3. Pay the visa fee (MRV fee).

4. Log in to your US Travel Docs account.

5. Choose your visa type and category.

6. Select an OFC appointment slot.

7. Confirm your US Embassy visa interview date (if required).

8. Download and print the appointment confirmation.

Don’t forget to take printouts—you’ll need them at the center.

How to Check OFC Appointment Availability & Wait Times?

Knowing when and where slots are open helps avoid unnecessary delays.

To check:

• Visit the US Travel Docs portal and log in.

• Select Schedule Appointment.

• The system will display calendar-based availability at your preferred centers.

• For updated wait times, check travel.state.gov > Visa Appointment Wait Times.

Note: OFC wait times are generally shorter than visa interview wait times.

What is Wait Time for OFC Appointment for US Visa?

Wait times can fluctuate like airline prices—sometimes short, sometimes annoyingly long.

Here’s what you should know:

• Normal wait time: Between 3–10 working days

• High demand seasons (May–August, December): Could stretch to 2–3 weeks

• Emergency/expedited appointments: Available for valid reasons (medical, educational deadlines, etc.)

Keep checking regularly as slots open up randomly, especially early mornings!

What to Expect at an OFC Center?

Relax—it’s not the actual visa interview. But you still want to be prepared.

When you arrive:

1. Go through basic security checks.

2. Show your appointment confirmation and documents.

3. Queue up for biometric data collection.

4. Get your photo and fingerprints taken.

5. Receive a confirmation stamp or acknowledgment.

That’s it—you’re done!

Important: Phones, electronics, and bags may not be allowed inside. Carry only essentials.

OFC Fingerprint and Photo Process

The actual OFC procedure is surprisingly straightforward.

Here’s how it works:

• Photo Capture: A high-resolution photograph is taken that will appear on your visa.

• Fingerprint Scan: All ten fingers are scanned electronically.

  • 4 fingers of left hand

  • 4 fingers of right hand

  • Both thumbs together

Your biometric info is cross-referenced during your visa interview, so consistency is key. Don’t mess it up!

How to Reschedule or Cancel OFC Appointment for US Visa?

Plans changed? No worries—you can reschedule, but with limits.

Here’s how:

1. Log into your US Travel Docs account.

2. Click on “Reschedule Appointment”.

3. Choose a new date/time.

4. Confirm and print the updated appointment letter.

You’re allowed 2 free reschedules. A third reschedule or second cancellation may require paying the visa fee again.

🚫 Always cancel/reschedule at least 24 hours in advance.

OFC Appointment Centres in India

You can attend your OFC appointment at any of the designated centers in India.

Major OFC centers include:

• Delhi

• Mumbai

• Chennai

• Hyderabad

• Kolkata

Each center has tight security and appointment-based entry. Choose a center close to your consulate, especially if you’re flying in.

Key Points to Keep in Mind Before Your OFC Appointment for US Visa

• Arrive at least 15–30 minutes early.

• Carry only required documents.

• Dress smartly (you’re getting photographed!).

• Ensure DS-160 info matches your passport details.

• Don’t miss your appointment—rescheduling slots are limited.

• Check center-specific rules beforehand (e.g., mobile restrictions).

• Finger injuries? Inform the staff; they’ll guide you accordingly.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q. What is the meaning of OFC appointment for US visa?

Ans. OFC stands for Offsite Facilitation Center, where biometric data (fingerprints and photos) are collected before your visa interview.

Q. What is the difference between VAC and OFC appointment?

Ans. VAC is about application document submission, while OFC focuses solely on biometrics.

Q. Is there a gap between OFC and visa appointment?

Ans. Yes, you should ideally leave at least 24-48 hours between the two.

Q. What happens after an OFC appointment?

Ans. You proceed to your consular visa interview and later collect your passport.

Q. Can we change the visa interview date after OFC?

Ans. Yes, up to 2 times via the online portal.

Q. Can I reschedule my US visa appointment after OFC?

Ans. Yes, both OFC and interview dates can be rescheduled via your profile.

Q. Can I cancel my OFC appointment for US visa?

Ans. Yes. First cancellation is free, but a second one requires new fee payment.

Q. What is the maximum difference between OFC and consular appointment?

Ans. No fixed rule, but OFC should be before the interview—ideally within a week.

Q. Is OFC appointment same as drop box appointment?

Ans. No, OFC is for biometrics. Dropbox is for document submission without interviews.

Q. What should I wear to my visa OFC appointment?

Ans. Formal or smart casuals are recommended. Avoid face-obscuring attire.

Q. Is mobile allowed in an OFC appointment?

Ans. Usually no. Some centers allow switched-off phones, but it's best not to carry them.

Final Thoughts:

Securing a US visa may seem daunting, but with a well-organized OFC appointment, you’re one step closer to that dream trip, career, or academic goal. Always double-check official sources, stay calm, and don’t overthink the biometric part—it’s simple, quick, and painless (well, unless you hate photos 😅)