15 Urgent Visa Changes Every Traveler Needs to Know Before Booking This Year

12. Visa Processing Times: Unpredictable and Getting Longer

Visa processing times are becoming increasingly unpredictable and, in many cases, significantly longer than pre-pandemic norms. Backlogs, staffing shortages, and heightened security checks contribute to this. Travelers cannot rely on advertised "standard processing times." It is crucial to apply much earlier than anticipated, ideally several months in advance for complex visas or popular destinations, and factor in potential interview requirements. Last-minute applications carry substantial risk of travel disruption.