Renew Indian Passport in USA: Step-by-Step Guide

Key Takeaways:

• Non-resident Indians (NRIs) in the USA can easily renew their Indian passports by following the correct steps.
• The Indian passport renewal process in the USA is handled by VFS Global, the official partner for consular services.
• To renew your Indian passport, determine your jurisdiction, gather necessary documents, submit the application, track its status, and receive your passport.

How to Renew an Indian Passport in the USA

Renewing an Indian passport in the USA is a process that non-resident Indians (NRIs) may find themselves needing to navigate. Whether your passport is nearing its expiration date or has already expired, renewing it is a straightforward process if you follow the correct steps.

Understanding the Process

The Indian passport renewal process in the USA is handled by outsourcing services providers on behalf of the Embassy of India or its Consulates located in various cities. VFS Global is the official partner for consular, passport, and visa services for the Government of India in the USA.

Steps to Renew Your Indian Passport:

Step 1: Determine Your Jurisdiction

First, identify which Indian Consulate serves your area. The United States is divided into different jurisdictions with specific consulates serving particular states. You can find this information by visiting the Indian Embassy or Consulate website based on your location.

This table provides a comprehensive overview of the VFS Global centers’ timings, addresses, consular jurisdictions, and processing times for different regions in the United States.

Step 2: Prepare the Documentation

Documents Required for Reissue or Renewal of Indian Passport in the USA:

A. Application Documents:

1. VFS Order Form: A copy of the completed and signed form.
2. Checklist: A printed, signed, and ticked checklist that outlines the required documents in the order they should be submitted. Get the checklist from here: Checklist
3. Online Application Form: The form must be filled out and signed by the applicant.
4. Nationality Verification Form/Personal Particulars Form: Three copies filled out with three attached photographs.
5. Photographs: Provide three recent 2″ X 2″ color photographs with a white background. Attach:

• One photograph to the first page of the online application form.
• One photograph to the Nationality Verification Form.
• Staple the remaining photographs to the last page of the application form.
• If the passport expired more than 3 years ago, a total of eight photographs are needed.

B. Proof of Status in the USA:

1. Legal Status Document: A notarized color copy of either a Green Card, Employment Authorization Card, or valid US visa (H1B/B1/B2, etc.).
2. Passports: The original current passport, and if the current passport is less than 5 years old, the previous passport is also required.
3. Passport Photocopies: Photocopies of the first five pages and last two pages of the current passport.

C. Fees:

1. Passport Renewal Fee: A non-refundable applicable fee.

D. Notarized Documents:

1. Visa or Legal Status Proof: Notarized color photocopies of a valid US visa on the passport, Green Card, Employment Authorization Card, or I-797 approval notice.

• Student visa holders should attach their I-20 document.
• If the visa is expired, submit a notarized no status affidavit along with the required witness documentation.

1. Nationality Verification Form: Seven copies required for certain jurisdictions, each with an original photograph affixed. Specific instructions apply based on the consulate location.
2. Spousal Information: If the spouse’s name is not included in the current passport, provide a notarized photocopy of the marriage certificate and a copy of the spouse’s passport or US ID.
3. Name Change Affidavit (If applicable): Female applicants changing name from maiden to married must provide a notarized affidavit.
4. Proof of Residence: Notarized photocopy of proof such as state ID, driver’s license, utility bills, rental lease agreement, or home mortgage bill.
5. Explanation for Late Renewal: If the passport expired less than 6 months ago, include a letter explaining the delay; if more than 6 months ago, submit a notarized affidavit.

• Applicants in the Houston Jurisdiction are required to submit a 4-point affidavit as well.

1. Change of Appearance Affidavit (If applicable): If the applicant’s appearance has changed significantly, provide an affidavit and a current notarized photograph.

How to Arrange the Documents:

• Use the checklist to arrange the documents in the specified order before submission.
• You may submit the application in person or by mail as per the instructions provided by the consulate or the VFS Global.

Specific Requirements Based on Jurisdiction:

• Applicants from New York, San Francisco, and Houston: Ensure you have 7 Nationality Verification Forms with photographs.
• Washington, Atlanta, Houston, and Chicago applicants: Must attend a consulate interview before applying.

Must-do Process:

• Completed Application Form: Fill it out diligently using the online portal (https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport), sign it, and print a copy.
• Current Passport: Pack your current passport along with photocopies of the first five and last two pages.
• Proof of US Status: Show off your legal residency with your visa, Green Card, employment authorization document, or I-797 approval notice.
• Passport-Size Photos: Equip yourself with recent photos meeting the specified Indian passport requirements. Know complete information about Photo dimensions here.
• Return Envelope: Address a sturdy envelope to yourself for the triumphant return of your new passport.

Remember, additional documents like marriage certificates or name change proofs might be needed depending on your situation. Double-check the consulate website for any specific requirements.

Gathering the necessary documents is key in renewing your passport without hitches. Here’s what you need:

• A duly filled out and signed passport renewal application form.
• Your current passport, along with a photocopy of the first five pages and last two pages.
• Proof of your legal status in the United States (e.g., visa, Green Card, employment authorization document, or I-797 approval notice).
• Recent passport-size photographs that meet the specified requirements.
• A self-addressed return shipping envelope.
• Other documents may be required based on your individual circumstances, such as marriage certificates or legal name change documentation if applicable.

Ensure that all documents are in order, as incomplete or incorrect information can lead to processing delays.

Passport Application Documentation Guidance:

For Adult Passport Applications:

Self-Attestation Required:

• Sign on the photocopy yourself; notary service is not needed.
• Documents to Self-Attest:

1. Passport: First five and last two pages copies.
2. Indian Address Proof: If applicable.
3. Marriage Certificate: Only if married.
4. Spouse’s Passport Copy: Only if married.
5. Birth Certificate or School Leaving Certificate.
6. Police Report: Only if the passport was lost or stolen.

For Child Passport Applications:

Parental Self-Attestation and Child’s Signature or Thumbprint:

• If child is over 5 years old: The child should write their name on the photocopies.
• If child is under 5 years old: The child should provide their thumbprint.

Parents’ Signatures:

• Parents must each sign their own document copies. Mothers cannot sign for fathers and vice versa.
• Any parent can sign general documents such as forms.

Documents to Self-Attest by Parents and Child:

1. Child’s Passport: First five and last two pages copies.
2. Child’s Birth Certificate.
3. US Address Proof: Utility bill, driving license, or rental lease agreement in either parent’s name.
4. Indian Address Proof: Utility bill, driving license, or rental lease agreement in either parent’s name.
5. Mother’s Passport Pages: Color copies photocopied.
6. Father’s Passport Pages: Color copies photocopied.
7. Mother’s Legal Status Proof: Color copy of Visa, Green Card, or I797.
8. Father’s Legal Status Proof: Color copy of Visa, Green Card, or I797.
9. ANNEXURE ‘D’: Affidavit for minor passport application by parents.
10. Annexure ‘E’: Declaration of the applicant on plain paper.
11. Child’s Legal Status Proof: Color copy of Visa, Green Card, or I797 notice.

Documents Requiring Notarization:

• US Address Proof: Color copy.
• Change of Appearance Form: If your appearance has changed. If not, the affidavit is not mandatory.

Please ensure each document is properly self-attested or notarized where required before applying. Take note of the specific instructions for self-attestation by child applicants, depending on their age. Follow these directives precisely to avoid any issues with your application processing.

Step 3: Submit the Application

Once you have all your documents ready, you will need to submit them either in person, by mail, or through the VFS Global application center. The submission method may vary depending on your jurisdiction. It’s best to check the consulate or VFS Global website for proper guidance.

Submission Instructions for Reissue or Renewal of Indian Passport Documents:

Envelope Requirements:

1. Service Providers: Use only UPS or FedEx for mailing your documents.
2. Envelope Specifications: Refer to the VFS Global website for the exact specifications of the envelope required.
3. Unaltered Envelopes: Do not modify or alter the envelopes in any way.
4. Shipping Labels: Generate and print out shipping labels directly from the VFS Global website.

Important Notes:

• Single Application Rule: Submit only ONE application per envelope. Envelopes containing multiple applications will be rejected.
• Adherence to Submission Method: Follow the VFS guidelines strictly. Submissions through means other than specified (UPS or FedEx envelope) are not accepted.

Ensure that your application package complies with these guidelines to avoid processing delays or rejections.

Step 4: Track Your Application

Tracking Your Application Status:

You have the option to monitor the progress of your application for the reissue or renewal of your Indian passport by visiting either:

• Indian Government Website: Use the tracking feature provided on the official website of the Government of India’s Passport Services.
• VFS Global Website: Enter your VFS reference number on the VFS Global website to view the current status of your application.

Remember to have your VFS reference number handy for checking the status updates and to refer to the correct platform as advised during the submission process.

After submission, you can track the status of your application online using the reference number provided to you. Staying informed about the process will give you a heads-up when your passport is ready for pickup or when it is mailed back to you.

Step 5: Receive Your Passport

As the final step, you will either receive your new passport via post in the self-addressed envelope provided or you may need to pick it up in person.

Costs and Processing Times

The cost of renewing an Indian passport in the USA varies depending on factors such as the type of passport booklet and whether you require expedited service. Processing times can also vary but are typically around four to six weeks. It’s recommended to begin the renewal process well in advance of any planned travel.

This table outlines the various fees associated with passport services, including both mandatory charges (Consular and VFS Fees) and optional services (like courier service). The total payment will depend on the specific passport category (adult/minor) and any optional services selected.

Tips for a Smooth Renewal

Payment Instructions for Individual Applicants:

Separate Payments:

• Individual Fees: Each applicant must make their separate payment. Combined payments for multiple applicants are not accepted.

Payment Methods:

• Credit Card Fees: Be aware that additional fees may apply when paying by credit card.
• No Cash: Cash payments will not be accepted under any circumstances.
• No Personal Checks: Do not submit personal checks; these will not be accepted for payment.

Liability for Non-Compliance:

• Responsibility for Delays: If the fee payment is not completed in full, VFS will not be held responsible for any resulting delays.
• Consequential Charges: Applicants may incur consequential charges due to incomplete or delayed payments.

To get a Refund of your payment, you can follow these instructions.

Please ensure that payments are made correctly to avoid any disruptions to the processing of your application.

• Ensure your application form is error-free and all required sections are filled out.
• Keep handy multiple copies of your photo ID and passport photographs to avoid last-minute issues.
• Regularly check your mail or the tracking status for any communication regarding additional information or steps required.

Renewing your Indian passport in the USA involves a systematic series of steps. By following the above guide, you can ensure a smooth and timely renewal. It’s imperative that you start the process well before your passport expires, especially if you have travel plans.

For the most accurate and up-to-date information, always refer to the official sources:
– VFS Global website: VFS Global
– Embassy of India: Embassy of India, Washington D.C.

Remember that your passport is your most important travel document as an NRI, and keeping it valid is crucial for hassle-free international mobility and staying legally in the United States.

So there you have it, folks! Renewing your Indian passport in the USA is as easy as pie. Just follow the simple steps, gather your documents, submit the application, and voila! Your fancy new passport will be on its way. And hey, if you want more awesome info like this, head on over to visaverge.com. They’ve got all the juicy details to help you conquer the world of passports and visas. Happy traveling!

This Article in a Nutshell:

Renewing an Indian passport in the USA is easy if you follow the steps. Determine your jurisdiction, gather the required documents, submit your application, track its progress, and receive your new passport. Costs vary, with processing times around 4-6 weeks. Start early and check official sources for accurate information.