Need help: Passport expiring in 4 months. Waiting for the 485 approval.

[485_MD_10022001]

Hi,

My Indian passport is going to expire by March. I am also currently waiting for my 485 approval.

I heard that when some one goes for stamping on the passport after 485 approval, passport should be valid for atleast 6 more months from that day.

Can I go ahead and send my passport for renewal. If I send it to Indian Embassy, how long does it take to get back the passport.

When I get my 485 approval, how long can I wait to get my passport stamped, while I wait for my passport renewal.

Your suggestions will be highly appreciated.

Thanks.

 

[mavishka]

485_MD_10022001:

Don't panic. Passport renewals are handled expeditiously by the Indian Consulates. You can either go in person (much faster) or mail your old passport in with associated form/money. I had mailed mine to CGNY (Consulate General of India, NY) and I got the new one within 10 days. Mine had completed 10 years. You also get back your old one that might contain visas, etc. with a stamp saying though the old passport has been cancelled, any valid visas contained therein will be valid till their expiry. You should try and get it done as soon as possible to avoid headaches later while going for PP stamping. Visit http://www.indiacgny.org/ for more details. Best of Luck!!

 

[smmr]

I have renewed my passport in Houston consulate. They took 6 weeks. I think you should send your PP for renewal as soon as possible and get it renewed. Better you should keep a copy of your current passport.