OFC Appointment for US Visa in 2026: Check Fees & Documents Requirements

An Offsite Facilitation Center Appointment (OFC Appointment) is an important step in the US visa application process, which helps record the applicant's biometrics before their US visa interview. Completing the OFC process before your interview significantly helps streamline the verification process and reduce the overall wait times.

In this article, we will explore the details of the OFC Appointment, its purpose, requirements, and other essential information needed for your US visa process in 2026.

What is an OFC Appointment?

The OFC (Offsite Facilitation Center) appointment is a specific session where individuals applying for a US visa are required to visit a designated center. Firstly, individuals need to check the availability of the OFS US Visa appointment.

During this appointment, applicants provide their biometric information, including fingerprints and a photograph. The purpose is to gather necessary data that will be used as part of the visa application process. This step usually occurs before the actual visa interview at the US consulate or embassy.

Latest Updates to OFC Appointment for the US in India

The latest information and data concerning the OFC appointment for the US visa application process in India include:

• The US State Department has significantly streamlined the OFC process, hence reducing appointment wait times by 25%.
• New biometric technology has been integrated into the OFC centers to further enhance security and accessibility
• In 2023, over 95% of the OFC appointments were scheduled online, making the process more accessible
• The US embassy has introduced mobile OFC units in major cities to further facilitate easier access to applicants
• For real-time updates, applicants can now easily track their OFC appointment status via the official mobile app.

Documents Required for OFC Appointment in India

The necessary documents for the OFC appointment comprise the following as mentioned below. Make sure to organize and print all documents neatly before heading to your appointment.

• Current original passport and any expired passports (if relevant)
• A printed version of the visa application form
• A printed confirmation page for the OFC appointment
• A printed Appointment Confirmation is mandatory to enter the OFC center.
• A printed DS-160 confirmation page is necessary for entry. Without it, access to the center will be denied.

Read More: What Are The Documents Required For USA Visitor Visa From India?

How to Schedule an OFC Appointment for a US Visa in Indian in 2026?

You have the option to set both appointments simultaneously—your visa interview and the OFC appointment. The OFC appointment occurs right before your visa interview, but it's important to note that the actual visa interview won't happen at the OFC facility. Instead, it will take place at the local embassy with the consular officer. To schedule an OFC appointment for a US visa, follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit the official website of the US Embassy in India and create an account, providing the required information.

Step 2: Locate and complete the DS-160 form (The DS-160 form, known as the Nonimmigrant Visa Electronic Application, is an online application required for individuals applying for a nonimmigrant visa. Developed by the U.S. Department of State, this electronic form aims to simplify and streamline the visa application process for applicants by allowing them to submit their details online.)

Step 3: Proceed to pay the visa fee, either online or at a designated bank.

Step 4: Book two appointments, one for the OFC and the other for the visa interview, through the embassy's online system or by contacting them directly.

Step 5: Attend the scheduled OFC appointment to submit your biometric information.

Step-by-Step OFC Fingerprint and Photo Process at OFC Appointment

OFCs were established to expedite visa application processing. During these appointments at Visa Application Centers (VACs), you'll submit necessary official documents along with your fingerprints and photographs. This step occurs before your meeting with the US consular officer.

1. Initial Requirements: At the OFC center, there's no visa interview conducted. You'll present your Passport, a copy of your OFC appointment, and DS-160 confirmation.
2. Arrival: Upon arrival, you'll wait for your turn at the center.
3. Finger Scan: When called, your fingerprints will be scanned.
4. Photo Capture: Your photo will be taken on-site, eliminating the need for bringing visa photos.
5. Visa Interview: After completing this process, you'll attend the visa interview at the scheduled appointment at the US consulate.
6. Passport Collection: Once your visa interview concludes, for approved applications, return to the OFC center to retrieve your passport. If you've opted for Premium delivery, your passport will be delivered. If the visa is denied, revisiting the OFC center isn't necessary.

Read More: How to Write an Appeal Letter for Visa Refusal with Sample?

What Happens at an OFC Center on Appointment Day?

During your OFC appointment, it's important to arrive early, typically 30 minutes before your scheduled time. Upon entry, you'll receive a token and queue up for document verification. Inside, your documents will be reviewed, and your DS-160 confirmation form will be stamped.

Once it's your turn, you'll proceed to one of the available counters. There, you'll submit your documents and undergo the biometric process. That concludes the appointment.

What Happens After the OFC Appointment for a US Visa?

After completing the OFC appointment, you'll proceed to the visa appointment with the US consular officer at your local US embassy. Following the visa appointment, return to the OFC center to retrieve your passport, presenting a printed copy of your visa application.

For visa interview waivers, fingerprinting isn't necessary. Instead, eligible individuals can submit required documents at the "Drop Box" facility. Qualifying for a visa interview waiver includes:

• Applicants under 14 years old
• Those renewing visas in the same category
• Visa holders in specific categories like A-1, A-2, G-1, G-2, G-3, G-4, C-3, and NATO.

Note: If unsure about qualifying for a visa interview waiver, contacting the local US embassy for clarification is recommended.

OFC Appointment Fees 2026

The OFC appointment fees are generally included in the US visa application fees (MRV fees), and applicants would need to pay a separate fee for biometric submission. 

OFC Appointment Centers in India in 2026

The list of Offsite Facilitation Centers (OFC) in India, valid for 2026, is included in the table below along with the complete addresses:

Also Read: What Not to Say in a US Visa Interview?

How to Reschedule an OFC Appointment for a US Visa?

If, for any reason, you have missed your OFC appointment and want to reschedule your US visa appointment OFC, you can reschedule or cancel your appointment online. The process includes:

For Rescheduling OFC Appointment for US Visa 

Step 1: Log in to the US visa application profile on the CGI Federal website

Step 2: Go to the Reschedule Appointment Option

Step 3: Choose the new date and location based on availability

Step 4: Confirm the changes and print the updated OFC appointment confirmation letter

Please note that you can only reschedule the OFC appointment a limited number of times later for which you would need to pay additional fees

For Cancelling OFC Appointment for US Visa 

Step 1: Log in to the US visa application profile on the CGI Federal website

Step 2: Click on the Cancel Appointment Option

Step 3: Follow the on-screen instructions to proceed to confirm your appointment cancellation

Please note that you will need to cancel your appointment at least 24 hours prior to the scheduled slot, and no refunds will be provided upon OFC appointment cancellation

Secure Your USA Visa With GetGIS Assistance

As we conclude, the OFC appointment is a necessary step in the US Visa process that ensures faster visa processing with reduced wait times. With proper preparation and the right documents, you can save yourself from unnecessary visa refusals or delays.

To make your US immigration process stress-free, reach out to GetGIS for end-to-end personalised guidance and expert assistance in every step, ensuring your smooth overseas journey.

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