India has become a key player in US tourism, now ranking as the second-largest overseas market for tourist arrivals. In 2024, 2.2 million Indians visited the US, a 24% increase from the previous year. Brand USA CEO Fred Dixon noted this growth will likely continue into 2025. With five million Indians holding valid visas and an additional 250,000 visa interviews announced, the desire for travel remains strong. Indian visitors contributed $20 billion to the US economy in 2023, with the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2026 expected to further boost tourism.
India has emerged as a significant contributor to the US tourism sector, ranking as the second-largest overseas market for tourist arrivals. According to Brand USA CEO Fred Dixon, the trend of increasing Indian visitors is set to continue into 2025, showcasing a robust growth trajectory.
In 2024, approximately 2.2 million Indians traveled to the United States, marking a remarkable 24% increase from the previous year and nearly a 50% rise since 2019. Dixon highlighted the importance of this growth, noting, “In 2024, India has moved to the second largest overseas market. Just behind the UK and just ahead of Germany.” His remarks were made during an India sales mission in Hyderabad, emphasizing India’s ascending role in the US tourism landscape.
The US has seen a surge in visitor interest, with a record number of non-immigrant visas issued to Indians last year. Currently, five million Indians hold valid visas to visit the US, a testament to the strong desire for travel. To meet this demand, the US mission in India announced an additional 250,000 visa interviews, enhancing accessibility for prospective travelers.
Dixon also pointed out that Indian visitors contributed an impressive $20 billion to the US economy in 2023, underscoring the economic benefits of this growing relationship. Looking ahead, he mentioned the excitement surrounding the FIFA World Cup in 2026, which is expected to attract even more fans from India and beyond.
Despite recent challenges, such as wildfires in California, Dixon reassured that the tourism infrastructure remains largely intact. Brand USA, the nation’s first public-private partnership established under the Travel Promotion Act, continues to promote the US as a premier travel destination, ensuring that travelers worldwide are well-informed about US travel policies and procedures.
With this positive momentum, the future of Indian tourism to the US looks bright, promising enriching experiences for travelers and significant benefits for both nations.
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