Regular visitors of MurthyIndiaDotCom would be aware that certain non-immigrant visa applicants like B1/B2, F and J applicants (continuing as student / exchange visitor in the same school or same institution as lised on previous visa), H, L (excluding blanket L applicants) and R visa applicants are eligible for dropbox. To be eligible for the dropbox, their previous visa in the same class should have been issued in India after the 14th birthday of the applicant; on or after January 1, 2008; was not lost/stolen/refused or cancelled subsequent to issuance; and such visa is either still valid or expired within the last 12 months. Further, the visa should not be annotated with “Clearance Received” or “Department Authorization”. Such applicants may complete the visa application form online, register on www.ustraveldocs.com/in, pay the visa application fee and generate the dropbox slip. Once this is done, s/he may visit the visa application center (VAC) or send a representative to submit the application for visa renewal.

While visiting the VAC, it is important to note that applicants need to submit a recent colour photograph, taken on plain white background with dimensions of 2” x 2”. Detailed photo specification is available here. We have noticed that many applicants / representatives have been advised to come back with a different photograph if the specifications are not met. So, we urge eligible applicants to follow the instructions to avoid delay and inconvenience.