U.S. Passport Handover Requirement for Indians: Opt for In-Person Pickup or Shell Out for Delivery Service
The US Embassy in New Delhi has introduced new measures to enhance the security of visa applicants' personal information. As of August 1, 2025, there will be significant changes in the passport collection process for US visa applicants in India.
For those who cannot collect their passports and visa documents in person, a home or office delivery service is available at a cost of ₹1,200 per applicant. To avail of this service, follow these steps:
- Log in to your account on the official visa application portal: ustraveldocs.com/in.
- Click on the "Document Delivery Information" section on the Visa Application Home page.
- Select your name from the list of applicants.
- Choose the delivery method as home or office delivery.
- Submit the changes to confirm your preference.
In case you face any technical issues, use the "Feedback/Requests" option on the portal, attach a screenshot of the problem, and specify your preferred delivery location.
It is important to note that the new rules disallow third-party collection. No relatives or friends can collect on behalf of US visa applicants. For minors under 18, a parent or legal guardian may collect the passport, but only with a hard copy of a consent letter signed by both parents. Scanned or emailed copies of the consent letter will not be accepted.
Previously, applicants could authorise someone else to collect their passport with an authorisation letter, a photocopy of the applicant's ID, and the representative's valid ID. However, the new rules end this flexibility, aiming to improve the security of applicants' passports, documents, and personal information.
These changes are part of the US Embassy's commitment to maintaining the highest standards of security and data protection for its applicants. For more information or to update your delivery preference, visit ustraveldocs.com/in.
- The new measures for US visa applicants in India include a home or office delivery service for passports, which will cost ₹1,200 per applicant.
- Under the new rules, only a parent or legal guardian can collect a minor's passport, with a hard copy of a consent letter signed by both parents.
- The US Embassy has ended the practice of allowing third-party collection, aiming to enhance the security of applicants' passports, documents, and personal information.
