NewsBriefs - Recent Updates & Announcements
Unified Inquiry Number for VFS Helpdesk in India
Posted: August 11, 2010
A notification of the VFS website dated August 10, 2010 indicates that with effect from August 16, 2010 there will be a unified helpdesk number for U.S. visa applicants in India. This helpdesk is for persons who need to make an enquiry or seek clarification on U.S. visa application process applicable in India.
Applicants calling from within India will have to dial 0120-6611411. International callers need to prefix the International dialing code for India (+91). It may be noted that previously the VFS offered region wise helpdesk numbers. The help desk timing is from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday - Friday except Indian / U.S. holidays.
This update is available on the VFS website.
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Fee Revision for American Citizen Services and Immigrant Visa Application
Posted: August 06, 2010
A recent update on the U.S. Embassy and Consular websites in India notify a change in fees for the American Citizen Services (http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov/pr070910.html) and Immigrant visas fees (http://chennai.usconsulate.gov/immigrantstous/fees.html) with effect from June 13, 2010. This revision is based on the interim final rule issued by U.S. Department of State (DOS) on June 28, 2010 amending the fee structure for consular services and this came into effect from July 13, 2010. The reason for the revision in fee is to meet the actual operating expenses for 301 consular posts, 23 passport agencies in the U.S., and other centers that provide consular services to both U.S and foreign citizens. Subscribers of our monthly bulletin and regular visitors to http://www.murthyindia.com may be aware that we had reported the revision of non-immigrant visa fee in June, 2010. Applicant(s) for immigrant visa, who paid immigrant visa fee of US $ 400 at NVC and passport applications submitted for United state Citizens prior to July 13, 2010, will not be required to pay the higher fee even if the interview with consulate is scheduled later than July 13, 2010.
While we make all efforts to keep our subscribers informed of any fee revision or procedural change, applicants are encouraged to visit the respective consular website prior to the interview for latest exchange rate.
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Revision of Lounge Service Charges at Mumbai
Posted: July 02, 2010
A recent notification of the VFS website indicates the revision in their optional Lounge Service Charges. U.S. visa applicants may be aware that the VFS Global Services Private Limited (VFS) offers The Stars and Stripes Lounge, a place where US visa applicants may opt to wait ahead of their visa interview.
The revised cost of the entry coupon with effect from July 1, 2010 is Rs. 275 per person. This coupon is applicable for all persons aged five years and above. As indicated earlier, this is an optional service extended by VFS. Lounge coupons for Mumbai are available across the counter at VFS application centers in Ahmedabad, Pune and Mumbai. Persons who purchase this Lounge facility may arrive at the facility 30 minutes prior to the interview and can use their facilities and will be transported to the U.S. Consulate, Mumbai for their interview on schedule.
This update is available on the VFS website.
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Revision in Non-immigrant Visa Application Fee and Change in Consular Exchange Rate
Updated On: June 4, 2010 | Posted: May 26, 2010
An update dated May 25, 2010 on the U.S. Embassy and consular websites in India notify a change in the non-immigrant visa application fees with effect from June 4, 2010 and a change in the consular exchange rate with effect from May 28, 2010.
New Two-Tire Fee Structure Introduced:
It may be noted that the nonimmigrant visa application fee has always been the same for all categories of nonimmigrant visas. While some categories of nonimmigrant visas attract additional fee like the Blanket L1 which has the fraud prevention fee, the application has traditionally been the same for all categories of visa.
The latest revision introduces a division of fees based on the category of visa the applicant is applying for. The new fee for non-petition based visa applicants like the B, C, D, F, M and J applicants is US$140. Such applicants will be issued a “white” receipt on payment of the fees. For petition based visa applications like H, L, O, P, Q and R visas the fee is US$150 and applicants will receive a “Green” receipt upon payment of fees. The fee for K visas is US$350.
The Revised Fee Applies Irrespective of Date of Purchase:
Generally, the fee revisions, especially the revision based on change in consular exchange rate will not affect payments made prior to the effective date of change. However, the notification indicates that this fee change will apply irrespective of the date of purchase of the HDFC receipts.
Effectively, if one has purchased the HDFC receipt by paying the equivalent of US$131, then the applicant will have to pay the difference in fee at the time of interview if s/he appears for a visa interview after on or after June 4, 2010. For example if a B2 applicant has paid equivalent of US$ 131 prior to June 4, 2010 and appears for an interview on or after June 4, 2010 s/he will have to pay the difference of US$ 9 in INR as per prevailing consular exchange rate on the date of interview. In the same situation a H1-B or L1 applicant will have to pay INR equivalent of US$ 19 per the prevailing consular exchange rate.
Mode of Payment:
As of this writing, we have confirmed with the U.S. consulate in Chennai that the difference in fee needs to be paid at the prevailing exchange rate by way of a demand draft favoring "American Consulate General, Chennai" at the time of interview. Applicants need to check with the appropriate consulate on the mode of payment, ahead of interview.
Consular exchange rate adjusted:
The US Embassy, New Delhi and the Consulates in India have revised the consular exchange rate from INR 46 to a US$ to INR 48 to a US$ with effect from May 28, 2010.
Conclusion:
Applicants should pay the revised fee of either US$ 140 or US$150 based on the category of visa at the revised exchange rate, if purchasing the receipt after May 28, 2010. If one purchased the HDFC receipt now, and applies for the visa after June 4, 2010, they will still have to pay the difference in fees.
This update can be found on the U.S. Embassy, New Delhi's website as well as the Consular website of Chennai and Hyderabad. Applicants are encouraged to check the respective consular website for the latest information prior to applying for a visa.
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New Application Procedure at U.S. Consulate, Hyderabad for H/L Visa Applications
Posted: May 18, 2010
A very recent update on the U.S. Consulate, Hyderabad's website indicates that applicants applying for H/L visas should submit the documents listed below, at least four working days prior to the date of interview. These documents should be submitted at the VFS office located at Hyderabad and not to the consulate directly. The documents include:
- Copy of biographic and other pages of applicant's passport which carries any observation;
- Confirmation page generated on the CEAC website to evidence submission of form DS-160;
- One recent passport style color photograph taken on plain white background - size should be 50mm x 50mm; It may be noted that previously, the photgraph once submitted along with DS-160 online was not required at the consulate;
- Copy of visa appointment letter generated after scheduling interview using the VFS system;
- Copy of I-797 approval notice;
- Copy of cover letter submitted by the petitioner to the USCIS;
- Copy of letter from client if working at client location OR detailed description of internal project - whichever is applicable;
- Copy of experience certificates;
- If applying for a H-4 or L-2, then the website indicates that a copy of the principal's I-797 along with a copy of visa is to be submitted.
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U.S. Consulates in India Revise Exchange Rate
Posted: May 03, 2010
The US Consulates and Embassy in India have adjusted the exchange rate from Rs. 48 to a US$ to Rs. 46 to a US$ with effect from May 1, 2010.
Effectively all the applicable visa fees will be adjusted with the new exchange rate. The non-immigrant visa application fee of US$ 131 under the revised exchange is Rs. 6,026. Previously this was Rs. 6,288. The VFS service fee of Rs. 374 per passport remains unchanged. This official update can be found here.
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U.S. Consulate, Chennai Introduces Appointment System for American Citizen Services
Posted: Apr 07, 2010
A recent update on the US Consulate General, Chennai’s website notifies American Citizens seeking regular non-emergency services to schedule an appointment with the consulate. This requirement for an appointment comes into force with immediate effect. Appointments can be scheduled by emailing the Citizenship Services section of the U.S. consulate, Chennai at chennaics@state.gov.
It may be recalled that the U.S. Consulate, Chennai provides services for American Citizens which includes new application or application for renewal of U.S. passports; amendment of passports, recording birth of child to a US Citizen abroad (Consular Registration of Birth Abroad); notary services along with other emergency services.
Additionally, this notification encourages applicants for U.S. passports to complete the forms online at https://pptform.state.gov and carry the printed application with supporting documents. As of this writing the update can be found at http://chennai.usconsulate.gov/warden_message.html.
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U.S. Consulate, Hyderabad Gearing up to Handle Increasing Demand in Consular Services
Posted: Apr 05, 2010
A notification from U.S. Consul General, Hyderabad Mr. Cornelis Keur indicates that the U.S. Consulate, Hyderabad is in the process of upgrading their existing facility to accommodate increasing demand for visa and American Citizen Services (ACS). This process is expected to take about six weeks.
The notification further clarifies that during these six weeks, the consular section will reduce the number of appointment available for both ACS and visa applications. It may also be noted that until the additional facilities are made available, the U.S. Consulate General, Hyderabad has opened appointments on Saturdays effective April 10, 2010. This notification also urges visa applicants to plan their travel early and apply well in advance and also urges American Citizens to plan and apply for the Citizenship services well in advance.
It is noted that visa applicants with urgent travel needs may approach the U.S. Consulate in Chennai or Consular Sections in India. Emergency services available to American citizens remain unaffected.
Though visa applicants and American Citizens may be inconvenienced temporarily, we strongly believe that this measure by the U.S. Consulate, Hyderabad would be good in the long run and we appreciate their continued efforts to provide better service to U.S. visa applicants and American Citizens. This official update is available at http://hyderabad.usconsulate.gov/limitedoperations.html
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Murthy Immigration Services (MISPL) Establishes Presence in Hyderabad
Posted: Apr 02, 2010
MISPL is happy to announce its virtual presence in Hyderabad with effect from May 1, 2010. Our clients and prospective clients from Andhra Pradesh can reach our office in Hyderabad by phone to schedule an appointment with our Attorneys. One of the Attorneys from the Chennai office will visit Hyderabad periodically. The date of visit will be announced on http://www.murthyindia.com well in advance.
Many clients choose our phone consultations and we are able to assist clients over phone and with eMail for the application process. However, there are a few clients who prefer to visit us in person and we have established this office to reduce travel for such applicants residing in and around Hyderabad. We will provide the address and phone number in our next eNewsBulletin. In the meantime, should you need to set up a consultation with one of the Attorneys for May 2010, please eMail info@murthyindia.com and specifically request for a consultation in Hyderabad. We look forward to helping you, your family and friends with the U.S. immigration process!
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Technical Problems Cause Delay in Completion of Form DS-160 Online
Posted: Mar 05, 2010
Applicants have been experiencing difficulty, completing the Form DS-160 since late evening on March 2, 2010 due to slow connectivity in the https://ceac.state.gov website while filling DS-160.
We at Murthy immigration services Pvt Ltd Chennai have received several calls and eMails from US visa applicants, informing that they were finding it difficult to complete the Form DS-160 online. There is also a notice on the Consular websites in India, updating U.S. nonimmigrant visa applicants on the technical difficulty currently being experienced. We also contacted the U.S. Consulate, Chennai over eMail and were informed that this there is significant technical difficulty with the Form DS-160 worldwide and that the Department of State is working on this as top priority. Once this is resolved, one can expect an update on the consular website. Further, it was indicated that if the applicant(s) have an urgent need to travel within the next 24 hours, they may contact the respective consulate. We expect this to be sorted out soon and we will post an update on any developments on www.murthyindia.com.
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Link To Schedule Appointment Now On Home Page of VFS Website
Posted: Feb 05, 2010
Some of the early applicants for nonimmigrant visa using the form DS-160 since January 19, 2010 would have realized that finding the link to schedule an appointment was very difficult. We at Murthy Immigration Services received several calls seeking assistance on scheduling the appointment using the VFS system. Following this, Murthy Immigration Services brought this issue to the attention of the U.S. Consulate, Chennai and the VFS. The link to schedule appointments was placed on their main page on February 4, 2010.
We appreciate the VFS including the link to schedule the appointment on the home page, which we truly believe would avoid confusion when an applicant or representative schedules an appointment for nonimmigrant visa using the VFS system.
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The Indian Government Restricts Frequent Travel On Tourist Visa
Posted: Jan 14, 2010
A recent update on the www.travisaoutsourcing.com, the official agents for scheduling appointments with Indian Missions in the U.S. has notified that in December 2009, the Government of India introduced a new rule that restricts foreigners with tourist visa for India from re-visiting India within two months of the last visit.
This new rule affects all Indian tourist visa holders even if they hold a long term tourist visa for India. The frequently asked questions section of the Ministry of Home Affairs in India clarifies that some exceptions may be made on a need bases and if genuine tourists are visiting neighboring countries and their itinerary requires them to travel out through India. Others will need to obtain a permit to re-enter within two months.
Further, this restriction does not apply to persons holding Person of Indian Origin (PIO) card or the status as Overseas Citizen of India (OCI).
More information can be found on travisaoutsourcing's website by clicking here and on the Ministry of External Affair's website by clicking here.
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Form DS-160 Introduced In India
Posted: Jan 8, 2010
An update on the U.S. Embassy, New Delhi's website notifies that with effect from January 19, 2010 all non-immigrant visa applicants need to complete Form DS-160. This form replaces the existing Form DS-156, DS-157 (for applicants aged 15 - 55 years) and DS-158 (for F, M and J applicants) with effect from February 1, 2010.
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Government of India introduces Tourist Visa-On-Arrival For Five Countries
Posted: Jan 5, 2010
A recent update on the official website of the Ministry of Home Affairs notifies that the Government of India, with effect from January 1, 2010 has extended “Tourist Visa-on-Arrival" for citizens of five countries. The countries that benefit from this facility are (1) Finland; (2) Japan; (3) Luxembourg; (4) New Zealand and (5) Singapore. This facility will be available initially for a period one year.
The notification clarifies that this facility has been extended to foreign tourists who plan their tours on a very short notice. Tourists from the said countries can also procure their visas from the Indian Missions / Posts in the normal course. The visa issued under this scheme will be valid for a maximum of 30 days and for a single entry. This visa shall be granted by Immigration Officers at Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata International Airports. The grant of “Tourist Visa-on-Arrival” will be regulated by guidelines as prescribed in the Visa Manual. More information on this can be found on the Ministry of Home Affairs website by clicking here.
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American Consulate General, Chennai approves Apollo Health Center For Medical Examination For Immigrant Visa Applicants
Posted: Nov 5, 2009
An update on American Consulate General, Chennai's website indicates that they have approved The Apollo Heart Center located at 156 Greams Road, Chennai 600 006 to provide medical examination, immunization and laboratory tests required for immigrant visas. It may also be noted that applicants' can continue to have the medical examination and immunization done by one of the existing approved panel physicians. However, if they choose to do this, they must complete the medical examination at Lister Metropolis Laboratory and Research Center Pvt. Ltd.
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Consulate Revises Exchange Rate with Effect From November 2, 2009
Posted: Nov 5, 2009
A recent update on the official website of the US Embassy, New Delhi indicates that with effect from November 2, 2009, the exchange rate will be revised to Rs. 48 to one US$ from the existing Rs. 50. Effectively, the nonimmigrant visa application fee will be Rs. 6,288/-. The VFS service fee of Rs. 374/- per passport remains unchanged. This change in exchange rate also affects all nonimmigrant and immigrant visa fees. This is the fifth consular exchange rate revision in 2009.
Applicants who paid the visa application fee prior November 2, 2009 and obtained a HDFC receipt, reflecting a payment of Rs. 6,550/- may note that these receipts will continue to be honored.
More information on this can be found here. We recommend that US visa applicants visit the website of the respective Consulate or the website of VFS for latest information on fees and application procedure prior to applying.
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Virtual Consulate Established At Bangalore, India
Posted: Oct 5, 2009
A virtual presence was established at http://bangalore.usvpp.gov/ recently. This is the first of its kind virtual consulate in India. The American corner in Bangalore is a result of partnership between the Public Affairs Section of the U.S. Consulate, Chennai and Bharatiya Vidya Bhavan, Bangalore. This information is available on the website provided above.
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U.S. Immigrant visa applicants from Andhra Pradesh are now required to complete their medicals at Hyderabad
Posted: Oct 5, 2009
A recent update on the U.S. Consulate General, Hyderabad’s website indicates that U.S. immigrant visa applicants may complete their medical examination at Hyderabad. It is also indicate that the consulate has retained one Dr. Raj Kumar Songa to conduct the medical examination and that Dr. Raj Kumar Songa has entered into an arrangement with Vijaya Diagnostic Center in Himayathnagar for the diagnostic services.
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Recent change in Timing for counter collection of passport at VFS Mumbai
Posted: Aug 1, 2009
An announcement on the VFS website dated July 27, 2009 indicates that there is a change in timing for counter collection of passport for non-immigrant visa applicant(s) in Mumbai, if the visa is issued and they chose this option. The new timings with immediate effect is between 4:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. Indian Standard Time (IST). This facility was available from 5:30 p.m. to 6 p.m. previously.
Readers of MurthyIndiaBulletin may be aware that if an application for non-immigrant visa is approved, the applicant may either have the passport delivered at their home / alternate address or collect the passport from the local "Blue Dart" office or avail the counter passport collection facility at the VFS.
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Recent change in Timing for counter collection of passport at VFS New Delhi
Posted: Jul 1, 2009
An announcement on the VFS website dated June 30, 2009 indicates that there is a change in timing for counter collection of passport for non-immigrant visa applicant(s) in New Delhi, if the visa is issued and they chose this option. The new timings with immediate effect is between 4 p.m. and 5 p.m. Indian Standard Time (IST). The VFS staff clarified that this facility was open from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m. previously.
Readers of MurthyIndiaBulletin may be aware that if an application for non-immigrant visa is approved, the applicant may either have the passport delivered at their home / alternate address or collect the passport from the local "Blue Dart" office or avail the counter passport collection facility at the VFS.
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Recent Visa Fraud Related Arrest at U.S. Consulate, Chennai
Posted: Jun 25, 2009
Recently, three persons from Gujarat were arrested based on a complaint from the U.S. Consulate, Chennai. Two applicants posing as couple with fraudulent marriage certificate, bank statements and degree certificates were caught by the U.S. Consulate authorities on June 23, 2009. It is understood that they were assisted by an agent who was also arrested. In wake of these arrests, we would like to reiterate that even marking a "Yes/No" to certain questions on the DS-156 form could be considered as misrepresentation under certain circumstances since these forms are signed under penalty of perjury. We constantly advise clients to be honest at the visa interview - this way, even if the visa is refused, the applicant(s) may re-apply for a different category of visa if appropriate or if the applicant's personal circumstances change, s/he could still apply for a visa. By misrepresenting or providing fraudulent documents, the applicant(s) are subject to a permanent bar from entering the U.S. Though waivers are available under very limited circumstances, it is very difficult to obtain such waivers and one should never misrepresent in the first place.
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US Embassy adjusts exchange rate with effect from February 20, 2009
Posted: Feb 19, 2009
The US Embassy and Consulates in India have adjusted to Consular Exchange Rate to Rs. 52 to a US$ with effect from February 20, 2009. This is the first revision for 2009.
Effectively, the nonimmigrant visa application fee will be Rs. 6,812. The VFS service fee of Rs. 381 per passport remains the unchanged. This change in exchange rate also affects all nonimmigrant and immigrant visa fees.
More information on this can be found at https://newdelhi.usembassy.gov/consdec192008.html. We recommend that US visa applicants visit the website of the respective Consulate or the website of VFS for latest information on fees and application procedure.
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US Embassy adjusts exchange rate with effect from December 23, 2008
Posted: Dec 24, 2008
The US Embassy and Consulates in India have adjusted to Consular Exchange Rate to Rs. 50 to a US$ with effect from December 23, 2008. This is the first time in recent months that the exchange rate has been reduced. The Dollar exchange rate has been increasing steadily until recently.
Effectively, the nonimmigrant visa application fee will be Rs. 6,550. The VFS service fee of Rs. 381 per passport remains the unchanged. This change in exchange rate also affects all nonimmigrant and immigrant visa fees. This is the seventh adjustment since March 2008.
More information on this can be found at http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov/consoct222008.html. We recommend that US visa applicants visit the website of the respective Consulate or the website of VFS for latest information on fees and application procedure.
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US Embassy adjusts exchange rate with effect from October 24, 2008
Posted: Oct 29, 2008
The US Embassy and Consulates in India have adjusted to Consular Exchange Rate to Rs. 54 to a US$ with effect from October 24, 2008. It may be recalled that on October 10, 2008; the exchange rate was revised to Rs. 50 to a US$ from Rs. 48 to a US$. Effectively, the nonimmigrant visa application fee will be Rs. 7,074 (US$ 131 x INR 54). This adjustment in exchange rate also affects all nonimmigrant and immigrant visa fees. This is the sixth revision since March 2008.
As has been in the past, receipts issued by HDFC Bank prior to October 24, 2008 will be honored and there will be no need for a supplemental payment.
More information on this can be found at http://newdelhi.usembassy.gov/consoct222008.html. We recommend that US visa applicants visit the website of the respective Consulate or the website of VFS for latest information on fees and application procedure.