Indian Passport Renewal in USA Application: Everything you Need to Know
For Indian citizens living in the United States, the process of renewing an Indian passport can often be a confusing and time-consuming endeavor. However, with the advancement of technology and streamlined processes, the Indian passport renewal in USA application has become easier and more efficient than ever before.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of renewing your Indian passport in the USA, including eligibility requirements, necessary documents, and the application procedure.
Eligibility Requirements:
Before applying for an Indian passport renewal in the USA, there are certain eligibility requirements that you must meet. These include:
1. You must be an Indian citizen holding a valid Indian passport that is expiring soon or has already expired.
2. You must be residing in the United States with a valid visa or Green Card.
3. You must be over 18 years of age. For minors under the age of 18, a separate application process applies.
4. You must not have any pending legal issues or criminal charges against you.
Necessary Documents:
To renew your Indian passport in the USA, you will need to provide the following documents:
1. Current Indian Passport: You will need to submit your current Indian passport along with the application form.
2. Proof of US Residency: You must provide a copy of your visa or Green Card as proof of your residency in the United States.
3. Proof of Address: You will need to submit a utility bill, lease agreement, or any other official document that shows your current residential address in the US.
4. Photographs: You will need to provide two recent passport-sized photographs with a white background.
5. Proof of Name Change (if applicable): If you have changed your name since the issuance of your current passport, you will need to provide legal documentation such as a marriage certificate or court order.
6. Aadhaar Card or PAN Card: You may also be required to provide a copy of your Aadhaar card or PAN card as proof of identity.
Application Procedure:
The process of renewing your Indian passport in the USA can be done either online or through the Indian consulate in your jurisdiction. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you navigate through the application process:
1. Online Application:
– Visit the official website of the Indian passport services portal and create an account.
– Fill out the online application form with accurate details and upload the necessary documents.
– Pay the application fee online and schedule an appointment for biometric verification at the nearest Indian consulate.
– Visit the consulate on the scheduled date and time for biometric verification.
– Once the verification is completed, your passport renewal process will be initiated, and you will receive your new passport within the specified timeframe.
2. Application Through Indian Consulate:
– Download the passport renewal application form from the official website of the Indian consulate in your jurisdiction.
– Fill out the application form with accurate details and attach the required documents.
– Visit the Indian consulate in person and submit the application form along with the supporting documents.
– Pay the application fee at the consulate and schedule an appointment for biometric verification.
– Attend the scheduled appointment for biometric verification and wait for your new passport to be issued.
Timeline and Fees:
The timeline for renewing an Indian passport in the USA can vary depending on various factors such as the consulate workload and the completeness of your application. On average, the entire process takes around 2-3 weeks from the date of submission of the application.
The fee for renewing an Indian passport in the USA is $185 for a standard 36-page booklet and $245 for a jumbo 60-page booklet. Additional charges may apply for expedited processing or other services.
Conclusion:
Renewing your Indian passport in the USA is a straightforward process that can be completed either online or through the Indian consulate. By following the guidelines provided in this article, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free renewal process. Make sure to gather all the necessary documents and fill out the application form accurately to avoid any delays in processing. If you have any questions or require further assistance, do not hesitate to contact the nearest Indian consulate or visit the official passport services portal for more information.
