H1-B visa stamping (validation) Mumbai

Mehul_Sangani

Registered Users (C)
I'm planning to visit Mumbai, India in novemeber. Will need new visa stamp. I had my last visa stamped from India in March 2003 and it was done thru drop-box while on H1 also

My questions are:

1 - Will I be able to use the drop-box option this time also? Or does everyone has to mandatory go thru the interview process.

2 - Do I need an appointment, if so is there a way to do that online using a website?

3 - Any recent experience from people who got it stamped? If so please post.

4 - Any other info. that I should be aware about.

Thanks in advance.
 
Mehul_Sangani said:
I'm planning to visit Mumbai, India in novemeber. Will need new visa stamp. I had my last visa stamped from India in March 2003 and it was done thru drop-box while on H1 also

My questions are:

1 - Will I be able to use the drop-box option this time also? Or does everyone has to mandatory go thru the interview process.

------- No drop box has been cancelled every one needs an appointment now.
2 - Do I need an appointment, if so is there a way to do that online using a website?

---- yes there is a website where you can take appointments
http://mumbai.usconsulate.gov/

3 - Any recent experience from people who got it stamped? If so please post.
-----search the forum

4 - Any other info. that I should be aware about.
---- well the appointments are booked far in advance so plan well, be aware that it is possible that you might be stuck for some time if ur profession falls under TAL or some name check issues come up. Also mumbai requires that you send all relevant documents to them 30 days in advance of the interview.

Go through the website well, clear things with consulate and ask questions.
Thanks in advance.
 
Thanks for the response. I browsed the website one of doc required it says is (http://www.visa-services.com/interview-working-online.html)

1. Form I-797 (Notice of Action) in original. For L1 visa, if the I-797 is a blanket permit, then photocopy of I-797 and form I-129.

All the documents are needed atleast 30 days prior to the appoinment. Am I understanding this correct that they need I-797 in original? So I guess I can mail all the documents ONLY after I reach India and not from US, since I-797 needs to be with me while travelling.

That would also mean I'll need to extend my vacation for more than 30 days.

Please advise.
 
nope I-797 does not have to be with you as you are leaving only when coming back, no one needs to see I-797 when u r leaving, u can keep a copy. Alternatively you can send the ceritfied/notarized copy of I-797 to mumbai and send the docs from here.

One more thing, they mention that the original you have to carry with you at the time of appointment .

At the US Consulate

Please report not earlier than 15 minutes prior to the appointment time. Remember to carry your passport, Appointment Letter and Fee Receipt!

Important! Security regulations do not permit you to carry any electronic items (including cell phones and pagers), smoking material, or any kind of bags (except a plastic bag to hold your application papers).
Supporting Documents
H1B / L1 Applicants

1. Form I-797 (Notice of Action) in original. For L1 visa, if the I-797 is a blanket permit, then photocopy of I-797 and form I-129.
2. Letters verifying your employment history and specific work skills.
3. Original Bachelors degree along with mark sheets.
4. A fully completed Questionnaire form. Each applicant should fill the form in advance and carry it to "The American Consulate " at the time of Interview.
Click here to download the form.
5. The official evaluation of your educational and work credentials
6. Relevant diplomas or certificates, e.g. computer certification.
H4 / L2 Applicants

1. Form I-797 (Notice of Action) of the principal applicant in original. For L2 visa, if the I- 797 is a blanket permit, then photocopy of I-797 and form I-129.
2. Photocopy of the principal applicant's valid H1B/L1 visa.
3. Marriage certificate (for spouse) in original along with your wedding photo album.
4. Birth certificate (for child) in original.

Please note : If you do not carry the required documents mentioned above, then you may be refused a visa.
 
Last edited by a moderator:
One more thing question, confused about point 5

5. The official evaluation of your educational and work credentials

What's this? Just the transcripts? If not, who do I get this doc from?

Correct me if I'm wrong but when leaving US, I don't need I-797 & I-129 in original?

Hopefully this thread helps others who have similar questions.
 
So what is the list of documents you send them from US. (http://www.visa-services.com) mentions the Blue Dart Process where you neeed to send in your passport. Do they need the passport 30 days in advance also?

Any information will be helpful.
 
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