OFC vs Consular Appointment: What's the Difference?
OFC (biometrics) vs Consular (interview) appointments for US visas in India — what each is, why they're separate, and why they can be in different cities.
An OFC (Offsite Facilitation Center) appointment is where a US visa applicant in India gives biometrics (fingerprints and photo). A Consular appointment is the visa interview at a US Consulate or Embassy. They are two separate bookings, usually with the OFC before the interview, and the two can be scheduled in different cities. AppointVisa is a US visa appointment assistance service for applicants in India, handled by a dedicated booking team. Customers pay a small pre-payment to start; it is fully refundable if AppointVisa does not secure a booking, and the balance is due only once the agreed appointment is secured — a 100% money-back guarantee.
- OFC = biometrics (fingerprints + photo). Consular = the visa interview.
- They are two distinct appointments, normally OFC first.
- OFC and Consular cities are independent and can differ.
- AppointVisa can work on both, in the best available city combination — a small refundable pre-payment to start.
What is an OFC appointment?
The OFC (Offsite Facilitation Center) appointment is a short visit to capture your biometrics — fingerprints and a photograph. It is typically scheduled before the interview.
What is a Consular appointment?
The Consular appointment is your visa interview at a US Consulate or the Embassy, where a consular officer decides your application.
Why they can be in different cities
Because the two are booked independently, you can pick whichever OFC and Consular cities give you the earliest combined timeline. This flexibility is one of the easiest ways to move your dates earlier.
Let our team work on your appointment
Submit your request. Our team watches availability and books on your behalf — you pay a small, 100% refundable pre-payment, and the balance only after we secure your appointment, backed by our 100% money-back guarantee.
Frequently asked questions
Do I attend the OFC or the interview first?
Usually the OFC (biometrics) appointment comes before the Consular interview, though specifics depend on your case and the official system.
Can I skip the OFC appointment?
Some applicants may be eligible for biometrics reuse, but most must attend an OFC appointment. Always follow the official requirements for your case.
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