Daijiworld Media Network - Washington

Washington, Aug 31: Starting August 1, 2025, US visa applicants in India will no longer be allowed to authorize someone else to collect their passports on their behalf. According to a new update posted on the USTravelDocs website, the US government has discontinued third-party passport collection in an effort to strengthen document security.

From this date forward, applicants will have only two choices: collect their passport in person or opt for home/office delivery at a cost of Rs 1,200 per applicant. The third-party authorization system—commonly used by those unable to visit pickup locations themselves—has been completely removed.

The official notice on the site reads:

"Effective August 1, 2025, a third-party/representative passport collection service has been discontinued to ensure the safety and security of applicants' passports/documents. Applicants must collect their passports/documents in person."

For applicants under 18, collection must be handled by a parent or legal guardian. A strict set of documents will be required, including an original consent letter signed by both parents (scanned or emailed copies will not be accepted) and photocopies of both parents' government-issued photo IDs with addresses.

Here’s what applicants must carry depending on the situation:

If collecting your own passport:

• Original Indian government-issued photo ID with address (e.g., Aadhaar, Passport, Voter ID)
• A photocopy of the same ID
• A copy of the appointment letter (optional but recommended for faster service)

If collecting passport for a minor (under 18):

• Photocopy of minor’s Indian government-issued photo ID (birth certificate or school ID is acceptable)
• Original Indian government-issued photo ID with address of parent/guardian collecting the passport, plus a photocopy
• Original consent letter signed by both parents (not scanned or emailed)
• Photocopies of Indian government-issued photo ID with address of both parents who signed the consent

Applicants are advised to follow these new rules carefully to avoid delays or denial in receiving their documents.