As an Indian citizen living in the United States, one of the most important documents you must ensure is up to date is your Indian passport. However, with the fast-paced life in the US, it is easy to overlook the expiration date of your passport. When the time comes for an Indian passport renewal in the USA, it is essential to be aware of the fees and the process involved. In this article, we will delve into the details of Indian passport renewal fees in the USA and the steps you need to take to get your passport renewed.
Before getting into the specifics of the fees, let’s first understand the importance of renewing your Indian passport. Your passport is your key to international travel and serves as the primary means of identification in foreign countries. Failure to renew your passport on time can lead to complications when traveling or dealing with governmental authorities. It is, therefore, crucial to stay informed about the renewal process and have a clear understanding of the associated fees.
The fees for Indian passport renewal in the USA can vary depending on several factors, including the type of service you require, the age of the applicant, and the urgency of the renewal. As of August 2021, the fee for a standard passport renewal for adults (age 16 and above) is $118. For minors (below the age of 16), the fee is $89. These fees are for a 36-page passport booklet. If you opt for a 60-page passport booklet, an additional fee of $35 will be charged.
In addition to the basic renewal fees, there are extra charges for various optional services. If you wish to expedite the processing of your passport renewal, you can choose the ‘tatkal’ service, which ensures quicker processing for an additional fee. The tatkal service costs an additional $60 for adults and $45 for minors. Moreover, there are optional fees for services like adding a spouse’s name, changing personal particulars, or obtaining a police clearance certificate, among others.
It is essential to note that the fees mentioned above are subject to change, and it is recommended to check the latest fee structure on the official website of the Indian Embassy or Consulate in the USA before initiating the renewal process.
Now that we have discussed the fees involved in Indian passport renewal in the USA, let’s move on to the process of renewing your passport. The first step in the renewal process is to fill out the online application form on the official website of the Indian Mission in the USA. Once you have filled out the form and uploaded the necessary documents, you will be required to schedule an appointment at the nearest Indian Consulate or Embassy for biometric data collection and submission of documents.
During the appointment, you will need to submit your old passport, the online application form, supporting documents, and the requisite fees. It is essential to carry all the original documents along with photocopies for verification. After the submission of documents and biometric data collection, your application will be processed by the Indian authorities.
The processing time for Indian passport renewal in the USA can vary depending on the type of service you opt for. For standard processing, it may take anywhere from 4 to 6 weeks for your renewed passport to be issued. If you choose the tatkal service, the processing time is expedited to 1 to 2 weeks. Once your passport is ready for collection, you will be notified by the Indian Embassy or Consulate, and you can either collect it in person or opt for postal delivery.
In conclusion, renewing your Indian passport in the USA is a straightforward process, provided you are aware of the fees involved and follow the necessary steps diligently. By staying informed about the renewal process and being prepared with the required documents and fees, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Remember, your passport is your ticket to the world, and keeping it up to date is crucial for hassle-free international travel.
