If you are an Indian citizen living in the U.S. on an F1, OPT, H1B, or Day 1 CPT, renewing your Indian passport is essential to maintaining your legal status. The process is straightforward but requires careful attention to documentation and timelines.
This guide walks you through step-by-step instructions on how to renew your Indian passport while residing in the U.S.
1. When Should You Renew Your Indian Passport?
You should apply for renewal at least 6 months before expiration to avoid visa and travel complications. Renew your passport early if:
✅ Your passport is expiring within 1 year.
✅ You have no blank pages left for visas or stamps.
✅ You need an address change or name update.
✅ Your passport is damaged, lost, or stolen.
2. Where to Apply for Passport Renewal in the U.S.?
The Indian Embassy and Consulates in the U.S. do not process passport renewals directly. Instead, you must apply through VFS Global, the official service provider for Indian passport services in the U.S.
👉 Find your jurisdiction’s VFS Global center:
- Washington, D.C. – For residents in states like Maryland, Virginia, and West Virginia.
- New York – For residents in New York, Connecticut, New Jersey, Pennsylvania, etc.
- San Francisco – For California, Arizona, Hawaii, etc.
- Chicago – For Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, etc.
- Houston – For Texas, Louisiana, Oklahoma, etc.
Check your jurisdiction before applying.
3. Step-by-Step Process for Indian Passport Renewal in the U.S.
Step 1: Complete the Online Passport Application Form
Go to the Government of India Passport Seva website:
🔗 https://embassy.passportindia.gov.in
- Register and log in.
- Select “Apply for Passport Renewal” under "Re-issue of Passport."
- Fill in your details and select the correct reason for renewal.
- Submit the application and download the PDF.
Step 2: Pay the Passport Renewal Fee
After completing the application, pay the processing fee to VFS Global:
🔗 https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind
💰 Fee Structure (as of 2025):
| Passport Type | Processing Time | Fees (Including VFS Service) |
|---|---|---|
| 36-page booklet (normal) | 3-6 weeks | $75 - $95 |
| 60-page booklet (normal) | 3-6 weeks | $100 - $120 |
| Tatkal (urgent) | 7-10 business days | $225 - $250 |
Processing time varies by location and workload.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
You'll need to submit physical copies of these documents:
✅ Printed Application Form (from the Passport Seva portal).
✅ Current Passport Copy (first five and last two pages).
✅ Valid U.S. Visa or Status Proof (F1, H1B, I-797, EAD, I-20, or I-94).
✅ Proof of Address in the U.S. (utility bill, lease agreement, or driver’s license).
✅ Recent Passport-Sized Photos (2x2 inches, white background).
✅ Additional Documents (Marriage certificate for name changes, notarized affidavit if passport is lost/damaged).
📌 Tip: All documents must be self-attested (sign on each photocopy).
Step 4: Mail Your Application to VFS Global
After completing the form, paying fees, and gathering documents, mail your package to VFS Global.
💡 Check the VFS website for the exact mailing address based on your jurisdiction. Use a trackable shipping method (FedEx or UPS).
Step 5: Track Your Passport Renewal Status
Once your application is received, track its progress:
🔗 https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/track-application
Processing typically takes:
✅ Regular applications: 3-6 weeks
✅ Tatkal (urgent) applications: 7-10 business days
🚨 If additional documents are needed, respond ASAP to avoid delays!
4. What Happens After Your Passport is Approved?
✅ You’ll receive an email update when your new passport is printed.
✅ Your old passport will be returned with a stamp indicating "Canceled."
✅ Your new passport will be mailed to you with tracking.
Note: If your U.S. visa is in your old passport, always carry both (old + new) when traveling.
5. FAQs on Indian Passport Renewal in the U.S.
Yes, but you need to submit proof of your pending visa status, such as a pending H1B extension receipt, I-20 (for F1 students), or Adjustment of Status (I-485 receipt)
Yes, provide valid proof of address (utility bill, lease, or driver’s license).
Yes, you need to submit a valid I-20 with Day 1 CPT authorization and an employer offer letter.
No, you must wait until you receive your new passport.
Final Thoughts
Renewing your Indian passport in the U.S. is straightforward if you follow the correct steps. Start early, double-check your documents, and track your application. If you need urgent renewal, Tatkal processing is your best option.
📌 Need more help? Leave your questions in the comments, and we’ll guide you through the process!
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