Hi everyone,

Indian freelancer here (cyber-sec + web dev, Upwork $100k+ last 3–4 years, 100% JSS, GST sole prop, >800k THB liquid, passport with 45+ pages of stamps, zero overstays).

Applied Mumbai consulate early November 2025.

Timeline so far:

* 1 Nov 2025 — Application submitted

* 4 Nov 2025 — Paid 25k INR DD offline (via friend)

* 8 Nov 2025 — Submitted Upwork portfolio + full passport

* 11–17 Nov 2025 — Submitted bank statements, ITR + 26AS + mutual funds

* 18 Nov 2025 — Submitted education + certifications

* 19 Nov 2025 — Submitted flight ticket + hotel booking

* 20 Nov 2025 — Submitted PCC self-declaration (no criminal record)

* 21 Nov 2025 — Status went to Pending Approval → suddenly called for in-person interview on 27 Nov at Mumbai consulate

That’s 6–7 rounds of additional docs in 3 weeks.

Anyone from Mumbai (or India) who has already done the DTV interview?

I got the DTV in 2 weeks! After 2 successive uploads of supplemental documents and 1 in-person interview, I received the DTV Visa the next day.

My business is registered in the U.S. I wrote employment contracts and permission letters to myself. If anyone is in a similar situation, please feel free to ask for any guidance needed.