If you are applying for a US Visa for the first time, you need to apply for Biometrics & US Visa Interview appointments. But, if you are applying for its renewal, a biometrics appointment and interview appointment are not required; you just need an appointment to submit relevant documents.
In the past, before September 2019, you could walk into any US Visa Application Center(VAC) without any prior appointment and submit your documents for US visa renewal. But, starting in Sep 2019, US Consulates in India introduced appointments for US Visa stampings using the Interview Waiver option, popularly called Dropbox.
This article will look at the US Visa Dropbox or Interview Waiver process in India, what it means to anyone going for US Visa stamping, and common FAQs.
Background: US Visa Stamping with Renewal, aka Dropbox – Appointments
Starting September 1st, 2019, if you are eligible for the US Visa Interview Waiver, aka the Dropbox option, you must schedule an appointment with the Visa Application Center(VAC) to drop off your passport and all the supporting US visa application documents. This appointment booking applies to all Dropbox/ interview waiver applicants filing for their US Visa renewal or stamping in India.
Below are the three most significant changes since the introduction of the appointments for Dropbox:
- Dropbox Submission Mandatory: In the past (before Sep 2019), for US Visa renewals, you had the option to choose Dropbox submission for renewals, but it was not mandatory. It was your choice to pick Dropbox or an in-person appointment. But, starting from Sep 1st, 2019, you must go for the dropbox option, if you qualify for the interview waiver option based on the questions answered on the USVisaScheduling Website. The only exception is, if you have an emergency or compelling circumstance and you want to get an expedited appointment.
- Dropbox Appointment Mandatory: In the past(before September 2019), no appointment was required with Visa Application Center(VAC) to drop off documents. But starting from September 2019, you must schedule an appointment beforehand to drop off your documents for Dropbox stamping.
- Faster Processing Time: In the past, the average processing time for an interview waiver or Dropbox was about 3 weeks, and there was no SLA. From September 1st, 2019, the dropbox applicant will get a decision on their case within 7 to 10 business days from the day they submitted their documents.
Official Guidance – USTravelDocs Website
The official guidance from the USTravelDocs.com India website for renewing a US visa clearly states that “starting September 1st, eligible applicants MUST schedule an appointment in order to drop off their passports…” The screenshot below shows the same, and September 1st on the page corresponds to September 1st, 2019.
Dropbox Eligibility Requirements
The criteria for the US visa interview waiver or dropbox option have not changed with the introduction of appointment booking. All documents required have not changed. You are still required to submit all the required documents as before.
In general, to renew US Visa using the Dropbox option, your visa has to be valid or expired within the last 12 months. However, since COVID-19 pandemic, the US Department of State has increased the 12 months from expiry to 48 months.
Also, in some cases, one many also be eligible for Dropbox stamping, even if it is past 48 months, if they meet certain criteria until the end of 2024 and beyond. You can read more at US Visa Dropbox Changed to 48 Months – FAQs and US Visa Interview waived for certain H1B, L1, and other Visa holders until the end of 2024 and beyond.
Process for Interview Waiver or Dropbox appointment Booking India
The standard process to book an in-person US Visa interview appointment is to go to the USVisaScheduling.com Website to register for an account and then schedule a general US visa interview appointment.
The process is no different for booking Dropbox Appointments as well; it is the same website, and you will be required to complete a questionnaire to check the Dropbox eligibility.
Below are the steps for Dropbox appointment booking in India:
- Step 1 – Register Account: You need to register an account at USVisaScheduling Website. You can read more at Guide to create an account on USVisaScheduling Website.
- Step 2 – Complete Questionnaire Wizard: The US Visa Scheduling website, managed by CGI Federal, will give you a step-by-step wizard asking you a set of questions. Based on the answers you provide, your dropbox eligibility is determined. You will get the Dropbox appointment eligibility confirmation at the end of the completion of the questionnaire.
- Step 3 – Confirmation for Dropbox Appointment: If you are eligible based on the answers you provide, the system will automatically give you a confirmation saying you qualify for an interview waiver or dropbox. Below is a screenshot of how it looks.
- Step 4 – Book Dropbox Appointment: After the confirmation screen, you will be prompted to put in the Machine Readable Visa(MRV) fee payment receipt details and then prompt to book the appointment date to drop off documents.
Note: In the past, there was a restriction on where you can submit documents for dropbox visa stamping. As of now, in 2024, that restriction is not there anymore. Irrespective of the US Consulate you select, now you can submit your documents at any location. There is a small fee that you may need to pay if you are submitting at non-Consulate locations. You can read more at Drop off documents at any Location in India Below is the difference on how it used to look.
If you are looking for H1B Visa specific dropbox process, you can check out Step by Step Guide for H1B Visa Dropbox Appointment Booking – India
Do you need a Biometrics (OFC) Appointment for Dropbox?
In general, there is no requirement for giving Biometrics at Offsite Facilitation Center(OFC) or Visa Application Center(VAC), when you book a US Visa stamping appointment using the Dropbox or Interview waiver option. But, when you try to book the appointment, the online system shows “Schedule OFC Appointment” as in the below screenshot, which can be confusing as the same message is shown for a Biometrics appointment as well.
The text “Schedule OFC appointment” on the appointment booking screen can be confusing, but they have a reason. Technically, ‘OFC’ Stands for ‘Offsite Facilitation Center’ and the Visa appointment system is asking you to book an appointment to drop off your US Visa documents at an Offsite Facilitation Center(OFC). So, do not be confused with the text with OFC on the top.
Also, do not be confused if you see ‘VAC’ instead of ‘IW’ in the dropdown on the same screen.
In the past, before Nov 28, 2021, the last 3 letters in the dropdown used to say ‘IW’, which meant ‘Interview Waiver’ and it was easy to identify the dropbox appointment. This changed to VAC starting from Nov 28th, 2021. Do not be confused. It still means dropbox appointment booking, if you were given the dropbox confirmation screen. Read complete details at US Visa Appointment Dropbox Booking shows VAC instead of IW
US Visa types Eligible for Dropbox Appointment – H4, H1B, Others
The appointment requirement for US Visa Dropbox applications applies to all of the US visa types that are currently eligible for interview waiver or dropbox. Below are some of the most common visa types that are relevant for our readers.
- H1B, L1 Visa: If you are an H1B or L1 visa holder applying for visa renewal, then it applies to you.
- H4 Visa: If you are an H4 Visa holder waiting for approval with Biometrics and traveling out for stamping, then it applies to you.
- F1 Visa: F1 visa holders going for visa renewal, who are studying in the same school for which the visa was issued in the past
- B1/B2 Visa: It applies to B1/B2 visa renewals done using the Dropbox option.
- In addition to the above, there are many other visa types that are eligible for interview waiver or dropbox as well. Check the USTravelDocs website for the same.
Below are some of the Dropbox Visa Stamping Experiences articles and links
- Latest 250+ US Visa Stamping User Experiences: H1B, H4 for the 2024
- H4 Dropbox Experience using Dropbox Appointment Process
- H1B Dropbox Appointment Stamping – 221g Green Slip Experience Mumbai
Common FAQs
Below are some of the most frequently asked questions(FAQs) in the context of dropbox appointments.
Yes, you can schedule the appointment from the US or anywhere in the world, before you arrive in India. You do not have to be physically in India to book the dropbox appointment.
You will very likely get a decision on your visa stamping within 7 to 10 business days from the day you dropped off your documents.
Yes, you can ask someone else like your friend, spouse, or travel agent to submit your visa application documents on your behalf. You need to ensure, that all the documents as per the checklist are in there. Also, submitting parties may need to provide their identity documents as well.
Yes, you can reschedule the appointment. They will mark your receipt as unused after 24 hours and then you can re-schedule to the new date and print a new confirmation letter for the drop off of the documents.
You select the location of drop-off, date, and time for the appointment. You need to go to the Consulate/VAC location at the respective date and time. The confirmation looks like in below screenshot. 
Yes, both of you can technically select the same date and drop off documents together. The system will show the date and time slots accordingly.
In the past, you could only submit your visa stamping documents at the specified dropbox location. But, starting from April 4th, 2022, you can submit your documents at any of the US Consulates or VAC locations across India. It will be free of charge for Consulate locations and there is a fee of Rs 650 INR, if you are submitting in other locations. Check US Visa Dropbox: Can drop off documents at any VAC location
No, the applicant must be physically present in their home country(India) to submit the passport and visa stamping supporting documents. Only appointment scheduling can be done, when you are in the US.
It is suggested to select a dropbox location to drop off documents at the below centers based on where you plan to give the visa interview. If you were to be called for an interview, you will be called to the respective consulate that is tied to the relevant drop-off location. So, choose this carefully, if you prefer a choice.
Applicants for Delhi Consulate: Drop off at New Delhi, Chandigarh, or Jalandhar centers
Applicants for Mumbai Consulate: Drop off at Mumbai, Ahmedabad, or Pune centers.
Applicants for Chennai Consulate: Drop off at Chennai, Kochi, or Bangalore.
Applicants for Hyderabad Consulate: Drop off at Hyderabad Center.
Applicants for Kolkata Consulate: Drop off at Kolkata Center
The above suggestion is a recommendation, but it is totally up to you to pick the consulate and drop off location. There are no restrictions as such.
No, you cannot change the US Visa interview location. You must attend the visa interview at the location you were asked to attend. It is important to choose your preferred drop-off location tied to the consulate as listed above when you book the appointment.
No, you must appear for the interview. You cannot skip if you were asked to attend the visa interview.
Yes, it is mandatory. You will need to select the appointment date, and location to drop off your documents. It is not optional anymore.
You will be allowed to get the missing documents and submit them on the same day. If you cannot submit as per the checklist, then you cannot submit on that day, you will need to re-schedule your dropbox appointment.
You can check it out at Sample US Visa Dropbox Appointment letter
You may also check the US Visa Dropbox Stamping Experiences page for the most recent user experiences. Below is the document that was released by US Consulates when they introduced Dropbox Stamping with Appointments.
What has been your experience with the dropbox appointments so far? Your thoughts ?
References: USTravelDocs.com – Visa Waiver Official Page
I got pop up “I am qualified for interview waiver” when I filled H1B visa for me. I have added my kids who are less than 4 years and my spouse as a dependent. I have traveled US three time over B1 visa in past but my spouse and kids not travel yet. Are they also eligible for interview waiver? Or I need to book separate appointment for my spouse for interview?
Vinay,
In general, your spouse would not be eligible if she has never traveled. Best thing to do is split up the application, get your and then in-person for your wife and then later apply for kids as dropbox. This is hassle free path. You can email the consulate and get confirmation.
Thanks for sharing acute information.
Q: I am applying for H1B visa while I login to CGI it told me I am eliglible for Interview Waier. However, As far as I know this program is valid till Dec 2022 so if I book an appontment after Dec 2022 Am I stil eligible for Interview Waier?
Krunal,
You need to be eligible for it on the day you apply for the dropbox. We do not know how they will handle these after December 2022. So, plan accordingly. You can email them and ask.
I got a dropbox appointment for H1 in India and I have my son as h4 dependent in same profile. I am planning to go to India for dropbox appointment and submit our documents.
Can my son stay in US while I can take his documents to India for visa renewal??
My mother has a tourist visa dropbox appointment next month. I am planning to ask some one else to go to drop off the documents. what kind of documentation do they need to take like authorization letter or something?
Can husband and wife both on h1 go for family Dropbox appointment ?
Kittu,
Yes, you can. Both must be eligible for them though.
Hi Kumar,
My wife and I have separate H1B through different employers. I booked a dropbox date for myself and then later added her as a dependent in the same appointment. Can you please confirm that it is OK for a couple to have separate valid H1B approvals but can still go to the same dropbox appointment?
Thanks
Hi Sunny,
Were you able to submit your documents with a single profile and same dropbox appointment?
Hi Sunny – are you able to provide an update on this? Were you able to submit your and your wife’s H-1B application in the same dropbox appointment?
Hello, I have an H1B visa. I am now requesting for a Dropbox appointment, but dates for this year are not available.
Can I schedule an interview appointment to have my visa stamped?
Also, kindly propose a different strategy to finish the stamping quickly.
I also have same question, Interview appointments are available but dropbox appointments are not available at any consulates in India, even if I am eligible for dropbox, can I go for interview appointment for visa renewal ?
If yes, we need to change the eligibility question and mark the question “Have you ever been issued US visa in any class?” to “No” to be able to go for visa interview appointment?
I have the same question – I am eligible for dropbox but seeing no appointments available for the rest of the year.
Hello,
Can I book DropBox appointment in any VAC in India?
In DS160 and Ustraveldocs, I chose post as ‘Mumbai VAC’ and paid MRV fee and looking for drobox appointment. Am I suppose to check drop box appointment only at Mumbai VAC ? or Can I book in any VAC?
Hello,
In DS160 I selected Hyderabad consulate for B1/B2 visa. While scheduling the appointment I got interview waiver and got OFC at Chennai VAC based on Bangalore residence and I plan to drop off the documents at Bangalore. Is this ok or should I need to re-schedule the appointment at Hyderabad VAC to match with DS-160?
Srir,
It is totally fine.
My brother booked me a VAC interview appointment even when i am eligible for dropbox. He was told to get a first appointment date and then request emergency visa as I need to visit India urgently. Should i cancel it and try to get a dropbox appointment instead?
Hello ,
I booked the dropbox appointment and I am able to see an appointment confirmation page. But in the appointment confirmation page I observed that the Appointment Made By showed a different name than me. I hope this will not affect my visa or dropbox appointment. Please assist on priority
its a same case for me, its showing my mum name. Please advice whether will it be a issue.
Hello Kumar,
I booked the dropbox appointment and I am able to an appointment confirmation page. But in the appointment confirmation page I observed that the Appointment Made By showed a different name than me. I hope this will not affect my visa or dropbox appointment. Please assist on priority
Hi,
I’m eligible for Dropbox appointment but when I rescheduled my appointment, the new appointment is showing as ‘regular’ in visa priority. My visa appointment date and time is March 28th 2023 8.45am, checked online and found Dropbox operation hours are from 10am-4pm. Opened a case with support, they said this
‘Dear Applicant:
Thank you for writing to the U.S. Visa Service Desk.
We understand that you have a query regarding the appointments.
In response to your question, We would like to inform you that our records indicate that the appointments are scheduled please proceed with your scheduled appointments.’
Not sure what to understand from this, are they saying it’s valid Dropbox? I’m d so should I go exactly at the same time as appointment time to drop off the documents or when they open at 10am?
To update:
Called multiple times to support center, they have asked to go exactly on the scheduled time.
My appointment was scheduled for afternoon 1:45 pm, however I went early at 10am morning. The VFS team validated the documents, accepted the documents and told me to pay fees of Rs.650. Hope this helps
I have the same question. Is it still a dropbox appointment or regular?
Hi No0rul,
I am having similar issue, can you clarify what was the resolution?
Hello Team,
Just want to check few details,
I am eligible for drop box, and under one profile I have added 3 applicants (me (H1b) and my dependents (H4)).
I got the appointment for Oct 2022 at 1pm (In the appointment confirmation I can see only VAC details, and no consular details ). But when I check the CGI portal Visa Priority is updated as “Regular”.
If I am eligible for drop box including my dependents, any idea why visa priority shows as “Regular”?
Another thing, my visa appointment is on Sunday at 1pm, when I refer the CGI portal, submission of drop box timings showing as Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm (http://staging2012.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-main-contactus.asp). So wondering what is my appointment corresponds to?
Could someone please clarify, if you have encountered this situation?
Santhosh,
It is a bug, many are seeing same issue. Usually, if your appointment letter shows only one appointment, then it is dropbox. Check with USTravelDocs to be sure.
Thanks Kumar for the update.
Could you please also respond to this query, copying the query here again?
Another thing, my visa appointment is on Sunday at 1pm, when I refer the CGI portal, submission of drop box timings showing as Monday to Friday 10am to 4pm
In this link (http://staging2012.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-main-contactus.asp) I am seeing below details,
Hours of Operation (Visa Application Center)
Submission of Drop Box visa application/ 221(g) application
Monday to Friday – 10:00 a.m. to 04:00 p.m.
Passport Collection
Monday to Friday – 10:00 a.m. to 04:00 p.m.
Sunday – 01:00 p.m. to 05:00 p.m. (only at the 5 Visa Application Center located at New Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Hyderabad)
Santhosh,
It is better to check with the VAC center, with the details you have so that you don’t have any last-minute surprises. Email them or call them. Do update here, how it goes for community benefit.
Hi, does it matter for drop box if I am late by 10-15 mins as I am coming from out of delhi?
Hi ,
I am looking for Dropbox appointments for last 10 days ,it was showing appoints were not available .what is the best time to check the availability
Ash,
This is a million dollar question that no one knows the answer…Keep looking, no time specific as such.
Hi Santhosh,
Did u get any reply for Sunday appointment? If so, please let me know as I am on the same boat too.
Hi sir, I am looking for H1 stamping date. I am eligible for Dropbox . I have given as H4 for both of my kids (one kid is 4 years old and another kid is 7 months old). But kids do not have previously issued US visa.Are they also eligible for Dropbox appointments? Kindly confirm
Sharmili,
For kids to be eligible for dropbox, both the parents should have visas approved. you can apply for your kids after both of your stamping.
Hi Kumar,
What if we submit the applications on same day for dropbox? We created 2 cgi profiles-
1. My husband (H1 B) is primary applicant and added 2 kids (H4) in one profile .
2. My H1B application in another cgi profile.
We 4 are eligible for dropbox as per questionaire and got appointment on same day but different time slots.
Will the splitting of profiles affect the kids visa approval? or they have to wait for My visa approval first
If it is on the same day, kids’ passport will be accepted along with parent’s documents regardless of the time.
But if it is on a different day, both parents need to write a letter mentioning that your passports are submitted for stamping earlier due to appointment limitation. Mention location, date, ds-160 etc.,
In both the cases, please carry letters from both parents mentioning the reason why parent’s valid visa is not being submitted with kid’s passport.
Also attach a photo copy of parent’s appointment confirmation stamped copy.
Also carry white papers and pen, in-case if you need to write any extra matter at the appointment center.
Hi Nik,
I am also in the same situation as yours. Did you face any issues while submitting the docs for your kids for drop box?
Thanks,
Karthik
Hello,
I’ve booked my visa appointment for September 2022.
However, I’m getting second thoughts if I booked the appointment for first time H1B stamping or H1B renewable. Is there any way to check?
If you are already in US working then it will be H1B stamping. H1B validity can be found on I-797 and don’t need to be renewed prior to expiration.
I am trying to book an appointment for past 10 days but there are no appointments available. Can you kindly given some insight (replying on my email) when they usually open the calender and how often to check there website? I would really appreciate. Thanks.
Naveen,
Technically, it should not matter. If you are in doubt, cancel and re-book.
hello guys,
Just wanted to check how long is it taking to get passport back after dropbox appointment in India? I read somewhere its taking close to 4 weeks… is this 4 weeks business days only or counting weekends too? I want to get vacation from employer accordingly so just wanted to know the trend these days.
Thanks!
Hi Kumar,
My question is of two parts.
1. If I submit the documents in Chennai with pick-up location as Bengaluru, when will I be asked to pay the courier fee?
2. Is there a chance that the processing times will speed up after mid August for H visas in Chennai consulate?
Hello,
I am currently employed in the U.S on my STEM OPT but I am also applying to graduate school for September 2022, and I will be receiving a new I-20 from them shortly. However, My f-1 visa from my previous university expired in 2021. I am visiting India this month to renew my F1 VISA. I was wondering if I can apply for the F-1 visa renewal with my current OPT information or do I have to wait util I get an acceptance from the new graduate program to start my visa renewal process? Especially considering the wait time to get a drop-box interview.
Shreya,
You can avail the dropbox stamping option. Well, this is slightly tricky.
Yes, it is best to wait until you get the graduate program acceptance.
I was looking to book for a drop box appointment in Chennai VAC, but the website says “There are currently no appointments available” in any of the VAC’s.
Does anyone know what this is about and when we can schedule an appointment ?
Did you get a chance to book appointment? I have getting same message.
Thx
My F1 visa dropbox appointment is on August 3rd and my college starts on August 15th. I am not eligible for booking an emergency appointment because of Interview waiver. Is there any other way to reschedule my appointment earlier?
Dear Sneha, Can you please let me know when you were able to make an appointment for drop box.. I have been checking for the past 5 days and it constantly says that there are no appointments available.
With regards to emergency appointment I found this link.. Hope this helps
https://www.ustraveldocs.com/ph/ph-niv-emergencyappointment.asp
hi were you able to get an earlier date? I am in the same situation.
I have booked Dropbox appointment for myself, wife and daughter together. Can I split the appointment dated for each one of them. If so please suggest how we can do that?
I am in a similar situation where my Dropbox appointment was on June 01(Delhi) and its been more than 15 business days I haven’t heard anything from them. CEAC website says the case went on Admin Processing on June 03rd but they haven’t reached to me for any additional documentation yet. I have sent emails to ‘support-india@ustraveldocs.com’ but no reply. I am stuck and anxiously waiting.
Is there a different channel that I can use to get information on what is happening behind the scenes?
Priya,
There is no different channel. It can take up to 4 weeks now. Just need to wait.
Hi all when I filled the survey to determine a Dropbox waiver for first-time h1b visa appointment, it said I qualified for it. Later when I decided to schedule an appointment, I have a doubt I answered the “was your prior visa annotated clearances received… “ yes instead of no due to which now I have two appointments vac at Mumbai and consular in Delhi ? Would this pose a problem in an interview? Should I cancel and look for a Dropbox date instead?
sheeba,
You should not state any false information on the questionnaire, that can create issues. It is technically falsifying info, so you need to be careful. It may or may not create issues, but you should always do the right thing and state facts.
applied for h1b dropbox appointment. approved it. but while taking appointment, due to oversight mentioned that ‘clearance received instead of nil, the appointment received was for interview/biometric.
Can I continue with this appointment?
whether consulate will take any objection to wrong information?
is it necessary to cancel and take a fresh appointment for dropbox?
Narayanan,
If you know, it is a mistake done, you can cancel your appointment and re-start the application. All your data is saved. It can create issues, you are technically stating false info about you right…
Applied for an H1 B drop box appointment. got a message of congratulations saying that you are eligible for dropbox. But while taking the appointment meant, the question of whether the remark ‘clearance received” is there in the previous visa etc. was there.
While submitting, through oversight it is mentioned the annotations ‘clearance received’ is mentioned instead of nil as there are no such annotations in the previous visa.
However, we got an appointment for interview and also for biometrics.
Is it because of the wrong submission?
And if it is so, can it be rectified at the time of the interview?
whether the consulate will say that the information is submitted wrongly deliberately and have any effect on the stamping process?
or
Is it necessary to cancel this appointment and take a new one for dropbox?
please advise
NARAYANAN, You can rectify it, cancel the appointment and re-book it. You can call the customer support, if you are not clear.
DearKumar,
thanks a lot for your immediate response
Hi,
I have an appointment booked for dropbox in Kolkata for 3 which includes myself (H1) and my spouse & kid (H4). I have paid the Visa fees and have got a single receipt.
Is it possible to split the appointment or all 3 of us will have to be in the same appointment. If yes, how – what is the procedure
Hi,
I have a scheduled visa waiver VAC appointment in Mumbai for B1/B2 Visa RENEWAL because it was the one available during appt scheduling.. But can I showup for appt and drop off documents in Ahmedabad drop off location?
-Joshi
Hi,
Can we book for interview even if we are eligible for drop box ?
I have the same question.
Hello Team,
I am H1 Holder. We are trying to get appointment for 4 (1H1 +3 H4). My VISA expired in 2019. My Spouse and I qualify for interview waiver. However both of our Kid (7 Years and 6months) does not qualify as they are below 14 years and Parents VISA already expired. Kids need to go for In person Interview (Biometric and Stamping) with parents . Can we all opt for In person interview instead of Dropbox ? As anyway we need to go for In person interview for kids so I was wondering can we all go for in-person interview ?
Curious to know finally what you did?
Are the Dropbox dates for December 22 still available or are they completely finished?
AJ,
They are opening now and then, not done fully
May I know what te need to log in so that can get Dropbox appointment. Your help will be highly appreciated.
Thanks
Archana,
Nothing specific, you need to keep checking at regular interval.
Hi,
I have scheduled drop box appointment in Delhi for F1 Visa because it was the one available.. But can I drop off documents in Bengaluru?
Shwetha,
Yes.
Hi,
Am I eligible for Dropbox could someone please assist me with this. I have a H4 visa previously stamped in India in 2016. Applied for change of status in USA from H4 to F1 approved and working on valid Stem OPT. I haven’t visited India from 2016. I’m not sure I’m eligible for Dropbox or not
Sravani,
You should be, if you had a US visa approved before.
I scheduled my dropbox with a different DS 160 number. Can I change my profile now with the correct DS 160 number and use the same appointment or do I have to schedule a new appointment?
Thank you!
I am a J-1 visa holder, post-doctoral RA. I need to renew my visa for this year ie., need a stamping. I have done the required formalities through CGI-website for booking an appointment, but I was never given a IW/ dropbox option. I just got stuck in “book an interview appointment slot” after OFC slot showing no appointment slot is available. This has been the case for last 3 months. How to get over this situation? Kindly suggest me.
Thank you
Krishnendu,
Slots are limited and you need to keep looking, there is no other way. I wish there was another option.
Hi,
Me and My spouse got 2 different dropbox slots at the same time, date & consulate. As the I am H1B holder and I don’t have valid visa will it affect my spouse(H4) application?
We were trying for H4 since couple of months but only got now as the spouse is stuck in India and we could get only slots in Sept.
Thanks
Aparna,
Well, usually, it is best to do the H1B holder first, unless the H1B holder is in the US at the time of submission. It is hard to say, see, if you can reschedule H4 by 10 days to avoid confusion.
Hi,
My husband is on H4 and he is in India. I am H1 holder and I am in USA along with my 6 month old baby. Is my husband eligible for EA?
It been very hard for me handle my child alone.
Hi! My parents came to the USA to meet 6 month old daughter in Jan 2022. Dad had a stroke and we found he has stage 4 tumor. I had to leave my family in the USA and bring my dad back to India for surgery n chemo. I am on h4 and want to go back to my daughter. I am unable to get any drop box slot in India. Is there any other way out. May be I try getting stamping for h4 from a different country? Is it possible?
Pree,
Really sorry to hear about your difficult situation. Stay strong.
Well, the only option I can think of is to email to consulate and see what can be done. You may try other countries, if they accept.
You can book any available date in future. Sometimes they open dates in 2023 for this purpose. After that you get option to request for emergency appointment. Give the reason and submit a request and most likely they should approve it. Good luck.
Hi Sam, I did the same, but I don’t see “emergency” option in the portal. I am looking for dropbox appointment.
Does anybody knows after ceac shows issued my cgi status shown blank for passport status whom to contact please anybody let me know
Hi,
I have submitted my passport for visa stamping through through Dropbox at Bangalore on Apr 26, 2022 (for VAC at Chennai). It’s been more than 10 business days since I have submitted. So, I reached out to their call center as well as emailed support-india@ustraveldocs.com. I keep receiving standard message as “you need to wait!”.
When I checked for the status using ceac.status.gov, the status is still “Application Received”. However, last updated changed on last Monday to May 9th and today to May 16th .
I am not sure how to decode this wait. Is/Was any one on this situation? Requesting your inputs or suggestions on this regard.
Thanks.
I have gone through similar situation don’t worry they will be verifying some info in background
In the OFC scheduling drop down I dont see Bangalore VAC as the option to schedule drop off… do you know how I can schedule for drop off at Bangalore. This is for my parents who are 80+ and during the application process, got the interview waiver
tarini,
You will not see Bangalore, it will only show up for the US Consulates. If you choose the relevant consulate that corresponds to Bangalore, that will work.
Did you end up getting it yet? I’m also in a same situation.
Hi, how long it took to issue. I have the same issue.
Did you end up getting it? I’m also in a similar situation?
Hi Kumar,
I am in India and have an approved I797 from my employer. My original petition was transferred and I had last visited US in 2014 on H1B petition which was transferred by current employer. While booking Visa appointment i wanted to book a family appointment so the CGI portal queries i answered based on the majority of the applicants. In my case the answers would have made us eligible for drop box but 2 of my dependents are not eligible for Dropbox. Now i have booked a visa interview appointment in July answering the question as No which is true for the majority of the applicants but not for me. Would this have any negative impact on my visa interview process.
Maniesh,
You should not put any false information on the application. It is technically fraud and you should never do it. Do not amend answers for convenience of your appointments, it may be classified as falsifying information.
Do not worry about it. The USCIS process itself says we have to book an appointment for future date and then only we will get option to submit the request for emergency appointment. So to book that they are expecting us to enter data that enables us to book appointment. Don’t believe in the above falsifying comment please. You can clearly show the intend and as you said the data entered is correct for majority of the family. USCIS would not find fault in family trying to go for appointment together. Good luck.
You can book any available date in future. Sometimes they open dates in 2023 for this purpose. After that you get option to request for emergency appointment. Give the reason and submit a request and most likely they should approve it. Good luck.
Do not worry a lot about it. Embassy itself says if someone has to book emergency appointment they have to book interview appointment first for future dates (they open dates in 2023 for this purpose). So we have to provide answers accordingly to get to interview appointment even if we are eligible for drop box. I am just giving this as an example. Do not worry a lot seeing the above comment that you are falsifying information. Like you said the information is correct for majority of the family and Embassy will not find fault for family trying to go for appointment together. They look at intend and you can show clear intend and reason. Do not worry about it and good luck for your interview.
I had applied for a US VISA (B1/B2) back in 2010, and on my VISA, I had an annotation as “Fingerprints Waived”. This same VISA expired in the year 2015.
I have recently applied for an F1 VISA, and while filling out the application, a question appeared whether I have or had an existing VISA, where I clicked, “YES”. The next question that appeared on the screen was whether or not the VISA received was stamped with an annotation of “Clearance Received” or “Department Authorization”.
Do I, who had my VISA Annotation stamped, “Fingerprints Waived”, have to click on “YES” for the above question?
KD,
In general, it has to be the same text. If you do not see the same text, then do not have to say YES. Annotation is used for many things and what is written there has to match. if you are in doubt, email the consulate for confirmation.
Hello Kumar,
I was on H4 visa till Jan 2022. In Jan 2022 I got H1 approval. My husband is on H1b and my kid’s H4 is dependent on my Husband’s visa. Now we all are planning to visit India for stamping. I got the visa appointment on October 9, 2022. We are yet to get an appointment for my husband and my kid. We are confused about the stamping process. Kindly assist
Hello Kumar,
I was on H4 visa till Jan 2022. In Jan 2022 I got H1 approval. My husband is on H1b and my kid’s H4 is dependent on my Husband’s visa. Now we all are planning to visit India for stamping. I got the visa appointment on October 9, 2022. We are yet to get an appointment for my husband and my kid. We are confused about the stamping process.
Can both parents’ stamping require for Kid?
For kid stamping both parents’ stamping required?
Jaya,
Yes. Both parents visa stamping is required for the kid to get the stamping done using dropbox.
I was on H4 till January 2022. In January 2022 I got my H1b approval now I am in H1b. I am planning to visit India for stamping. So am I eligible for dropbox as I was on H4 earlier and now in H1b?
Jaya,
You are likely to be. Check by creating profile and filling out questionnaire, the system will tell
Hi Kumar,
I have checked on Usdocs site and found that I am eligible for interview waiver so can use dropbox appointment. Any idea if we are getting appointment for June 1st Week? I have 2 dependents – Spouse and Kid (less than 14) who wont be getting waiver. Do they need to be booked for interview separately? Can my kid get visa without inteview via dropbox? I am in utter confusion.
Thanks!
Sunil,
Yes, they need to book an interview for your spouse. You can get your kid’s dropbox, after you both have visas approved.
Dear sir,
I am applying for a J1 visa in the US. Previously I have a B1/B2 visa and I am qualified to get an interview waiver. But I am confused about where I have to drop my documents because in Kolkata there are two different places for interviews and biometrics. So My question is where should I have to go? Moreover
Nagendra,
When you generate the letter, it will have address details, check that info.
Hi, my wife and I are applying for j2 and J1 visa. I am already eligible for visa interview waiver but my wife is not. I want to give up my option for Dropbox, and give interview with my wife. I tried to book through my email account and we are getting Dropbox option instead of interview. How should I fix this and get interview for both of us together.
Hi Pratap,
I am also in the same boat, some where i read when the kid cross 15 year old he needs to get a consular appointment for the Kid. I am also trying to find more details. Please let me know if you find any information. appreciate it.
Thanks,
Ravikumar K
Hi , I am trying for H1 drop box slot booking from couple of days. But getting message as no appointment currently available for Hyderabad,Any one recently booked the appointment and let me know your experience. Also suggest me any idea when can we get slot
Hi Kumar, could you please provide any information on my ask that will help to me and I am looking for Dropbox slot availability.
Hi Kumar ,
Any information u have could you pls post
I got 221g for H4 and they have asked to submit my spouse visa copy in any VAC or VFS for that i need to book any appointment or i can directly go and submit mentioned documents
I am on H1B visa and have 3 dependents on H4 visa (spouse and 2 kids). One of my child is 15 years and his last stamping (on H4) was when he was 10 years. For visa renewal this time, while responding to questions on USTravelDocs (cgifederal) site, I was sure there was no question regarding 14th birthday, hence I was eligible for dropbox and I have booked dropbox for all four of us. Is anyone there who is in same situation and has successfully stamped for 14+ year child. ? Please advise
I am the same boat not sure what to do
Pratap,
As he already had a visa, the age question did not come up at all. So, you should be fine. You can email them, if you are in doubt.
Dear Kumar,
Thanks for your quick response. I have emailed them many times and also called them few times, however they never clarified whether my child is eligible for Dropbox or not and always sent link of eligibility. I have single USTravelDocs profile in my name and have other members as dependent and hence I never got such (14th birthday) question.
I am also member of your telegram group. However I did not came across any experience of any user in same situation. I am afraid that once I travel to India and if they did not accept my child’s documents, I have look for appointment and its almost impossible to get biometric and consular appointments now. However I will be keeping a buffer of 2 months for interview appointment (July-Aug).
Thanks for your advice.
Pratap,
I see. One thing you can try to do is create a new profile in USTravelDocs for your kid and try the questionnaire separately. Do not pay the fee, but go through the process. Until you pay fee, nothing is committed, so that was you can validate. You can also write to US Consulate directly to clarify, they are better at clarifying this.
Hi Pratap,
I am also in the same boat, some where i read when the kid cross 15 year old he needs to get a consular appointment for the Kid. I am also trying to find more details. Please let me know if you find any information. appreciate it.
Thanks,
Ravikumar K
I’m on H1B currently but will be quitting soon and going to India and will get on partner’s H1B as H4 dependent. Would I be eligible for dropbox? Once I quit will my H1B be considered cancelled?