US Embassy Tightens Passport Rules for Indian Visa Applicants

The US Embassy in India has announced stricter passport collection rules for visa applicants. The new policy takes effect from August 1. It limits how applicants can retrieve their documents after processing. This change impacts thousands of Indian nationals applying for US visas each year.

According to the USTravelDocs website, the move aims to enhance document security. The embassy stated it is for the safety of applicants’ passports. The previous flexible pickup option has been completely withdrawn.

New US Visa Passport Collection Guidelines Explained

Applicants now have only two choices for passport retrieval. They can opt for home delivery for a fee of ₹1,200. The alternative is to collect the document in person from a designated center.

The embassy has eliminated third-party collection. Friends, family members, or agents can no longer pick up passports on behalf of the applicant. This is a significant shift from the previous policy.

The new rule mandates strict identification checks. For self-collection, a government-issued photo ID and address proof are mandatory. Applicants must also bring a copy of their appointment letter.

Specific Rules for Minors and Accepted Identification

Special rules apply for applicants under 18 years of age. A parent or legal guardian must collect the passport for a minor. They cannot send a representative.

The guardian must present an original signed consent letter from both parents. Scanned or emailed copies will not be accepted under any circumstances. They must also provide clear photocopies of both parents’ government-issued IDs.

Not all forms of identification are valid. The embassy will not accept employment ID cards from government jobs. Senior citizen cards and PAN cards are also not valid for collection purposes.

Logistics and Uncollected Document Protocol

Applicants select a pickup location when scheduling their interview. Options include CGI centers and Blue Dart locations. The goal is to choose the most convenient point.

Passports will not be held indefinitely at these centers. Documents at visa application centers are returned to the embassy after 14 working days. The timeframe is shorter, just 7 working days, at Blue Dart locations.

If a passport is returned to the embassy, the applicant must collect it in person. This adds a layer of inconvenience for those who miss the initial pickup window. The policy emphasizes timely collection.

The updated US visa passport collection rules prioritize security above all else. This change standardizes the process for all Indian applicants. Ensuring document safety remains the embassy’s top concern.

Info at your fingertips

What are the new US visa passport collection options?

Applicants now have only two choices. They can pay ₹1,200 for home delivery or collect the passport themselves from a designated center. Third-party pickup is no longer allowed.

Who can collect a passport for a minor?

Only a parent or legal guardian can collect a minor’s passport. They must provide an original consent letter signed by both parents and copies of the parents’ IDs.

What ID is needed for self-collection?

You must bring an original government-issued photo ID and address proof. A copy of your appointment letter is also recommended for faster processing.

What happens if I don’t collect my passport on time?

Uncollected passports are sent back to the US Embassy or Consulate. You will then have to collect it in person from the diplomatic mission directly.

Why did the US Embassy change this rule?

The change was implemented to ensure the safety and security of applicants’ passports. It aims to prevent loss or mishandling of important travel documents.

Is a PAN card a valid ID for collection?

No, the embassy specifically lists PAN cards as an unacceptable form of identification for passport collection purposes. You must use a different government-issued ID.