US Embassy Implements New Passport Collection Rules: In-Person Only or ₹1,200 Home Delivery

The US Embassy in New Delhi announced significant changes to passport collection procedures from August 1, 2025, eliminating third-party collection options to enhance security, as per the news reports. Visa applicants must now collect passports personally or opt for home delivery service priced at ₹1,200 per applicant.

Third-Party Collection Banned for Enhanced Security

From August 1, 2025, passport collection through representatives, friends, or travel agents is no longer permitted. The embassy stated this change improves the safety and security of applicants' passports and documents. All visa applicants must collect passports and related documents in person, with exceptions only for minors under 18 whose parents or legal guardians can collect original consent letters from both parents.

₹1,200 Home Delivery Service Available as Alternative

To accommodate applicants unable to visit collection centres, the embassy offers home or office delivery service for ₹1,200 per applicant. This service can be booked by updating delivery preferences online through the ustraveldocs.com portal. Applicants must log in, select document delivery information, choose their preferred delivery method, and submit changes through the official website.

Read More: US Introduces Up to $15,000 Bond Requirement for Tourist and Business Visas from August 20!

Significant Change from Previous Flexible Collection System

Previously, US visa applicants could authorise family members, friends, or travel agents to collect passports using simple documentation, including authorisation letters, photocopies of government-issued IDs, and valid representative identification. For minors, scanned or emailed consent letters were acceptable, making the collection process more flexible for applicants across India.

Online Portal Updates Required for Delivery Preferences

Applicants experiencing technical issues can use the "Feedback/Requests" option in their profiles, attaching error screenshots with preferred delivery locations. The embassy advises against contacting call centres for updates, recommending checking the "Messages" section on the Visa Application Home page or official website for information instead.

Conclusion

The US Embassy's new passport collection rules from August 1, 2025, eliminate third-party collection whilst introducing a ₹1,200 home delivery service for enhanced security. The mandatory in-person collection or paid delivery option represents a significant policy shift from the previous flexible system, requiring applicants to adjust their passport retrieval strategies whilst prioritising document security through streamlined collection processes.

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