Starting August 1, 2025, the US Embassy in New Delhi will stop allowing third-party passport pickups. That means if you’ve applied for a US visa, you’ll need to collect your passport yourself. No Friends, No Agents, No Representatives!
Why the Change?
The reason? Security. The US embassy says this change is meant to better protect your passport and other sensitive documents. In recent years, concerns have grown about security lapses with third-party pickups, and this policy aims to ensure passports don’t fall into the wrong hands.
Who Needs to Pick Up the Passport?
- All visa applicants must now collect their documents in person.
- Applicants under 18? A parent or legal guardian can step in, but only with an original, signed consent letter from both parents.
- No scans or emails allowed. If the letter isn’t original and signed, it won’t be accepted.
Prefer Not to Go in Person? You Have an Option
If making a trip to the collection center isn’t ideal, there’s a workaround. The embassy now offers home or office passport delivery for ₹1,200 per applicant. It’s not free, but it might be worth the convenience. To opt in, head online to your profile at the US visa portal.
How to Update Your Delivery Preferences
The embassy’s process for changing your delivery option is quite simple and straightforward:
- Log in to your profile at the official US travel docs website.
- On the Visa Application Home page, select “Document Delivery Information.”
- Pick the relevant applicant’s name.
- Choose your preferred method of delivery and submit.
- Don’t forget to log out at the end.
Pro Tip: If something goes wrong during this process, use the ‘Feedback/Requests’ tab in your profile. Attach a screenshot of the issue and clearly state your preferred delivery address.
What Not to Do
Don’t call the help desk to make delivery changes. The embassy has made it clear: use the website. For updates or extra details, check the “Messages” section in your Visa Application Home.
What Travellers Should Remember
- In-person collection is the new norm for US visas in India.
- Minors require extra paperwork: a consent letter signed by both parents, in original form.
- Delivery is an option but with a fee. Consider this if in-person collection isn’t feasible.
Why This Matters
For years, passport collection in India often relied on agents or third-party services. That’s now off the table, at least at the New Delhi post. Whether you’re a student, tourist, or business traveller, this update means one more task to manage yourself, but also one less chance of your documents falling into the wrong hands.
Final Thoughts
By tightening these rules, the US Embassy hopes to make the process safer for everyone. For those planning trips stateside, it’s yet another detail to double-check, one that could make your journey a little smoother, if you prepare in advance.
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