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Step-by-Step Guide to Indian Passport Renewal in USA

Published on 13th January 2026 by Vismaya R K

General

Indian Passport Renewal in USA (2026 Guide) – Step-by-Step Process, Fees & Documents

1. Introduction to Indian Passport Renewal in USA

If you’re an Indian citizen living in the United States, keeping your passport up to date is essential for maintaining your identity, travel, and visa status. Passport renewals in the USA are handled by VFS Global, the official outsourcing partner for the Indian Embassy and Consulates.

This guide provides a step-by-step process for Indian passport renewal in the USA, including documents, processing time, photo specifications, and fees ensuring a smooth and error-free experience.

2. When to Renew Your Indian Passport in USA

You can renew your passport up to 1 year before it expires. However, it’s strongly advised to begin the process 6 to 8 months before the expiration date, especially if you plan to travel or apply for visas.

Tip: Airlines and immigration authorities may deny boarding if your passport has less than 6 months of validity remaining.

3. Eligibility Criteria for Passport Renewal

You can apply for renewal if:

  • You are an Indian citizen residing in the USA.

  • Your passport is about to expire (within 1 year) or has already expired.

  • You wish to update information such as address, name (after marriage), or appearance.

  • You lost or damaged your existing passport (requires reissue, not renewal).

4. Documents Required for Indian Passport Renewal in USA

  • Mandatory: Current passport (original and photocopy of the first five and last two pages)

  • Proof of Legal Status in USA: Valid visa, Green Card, I-797, or Employment Authorization Document (EAD)

  • Proof of Address in USA: Driver’s License, utility bill, or bank statement

  • Photographs: Two recent color passport photos (2x2 inches)

  • Additional (if applicable): Marriage certificate, name change affidavit, or police report (for lost or damaged passports)

5. Step-by-Step Process for Indian Passport Renewal in USA

Step 1: Register on the Passport Seva Portal

Step 2: Print and Sign the Application

  • Print the Application Form PDF.

  • Sign in the designated boxes.

Step 3: Pay Fees and Create VFS Account

Step 4: Prepare Your Application Package

  • Include:

    • Printed and signed form

    • Original passport

    • Copies of supporting documents

    • Photos

    • Payment receipt

    • Return shipping label

Step 5: Ship Your Package

  • Use FedEx or UPS as per VFS guidelines.

  • Track your shipment and VFS acknowledgment.

6. How to Apply Online via VFS Global

VFS Global acts as the middle agent between you and the Indian Embassy. Once your documents are verified, they forward your application for processing.

You can:

  • Schedule an appointment (for in-person submission) or

  • Send your application via mail (recommended)

7. Photo Requirements for Indian Passport Renewal in USA

  • Size: 2 x 2 inches

  • Background: White, plain background

  • Expression: Neutral face, no smile

  • Headgear: Not allowed except for religious reasons

  • Clarity: No shadows, glare, or red-eye

8. Fees for Indian Passport Renewal in USA

For applicants renewing their Indian passport in the USA through VFS Global, the total cost varies depending on the number of pages and whether you choose the Normal or Tatkal (urgent) service.

  • Normal Passport (36 pages, 10-year validity):
    The government fee is $75, plus a VFS service charge of $15.90, making the total approximately $90.

  • Jumbo Passport (60 pages, 10-year validity):
    The government fee is $100, plus the VFS service charge of $15.90, for a total of about $115.

  • Tatkal (Expedited) Service:
    An additional $150 is charged on top of the normal fees for faster processing, bringing the total to around $240 depending on your selected passport type.

Note: A courier return fee (usually between $15–$30) may apply depending on the shipping method you choose.

9. Processing Time and Tracking Application

  • Normal Processing: 3–4 weeks

  • Tatkal (Expedited): 5–7 business days
    Track your status using your VFS reference number on their tracking portal.

    9.1 Updated Indian Passport Renewal Processing Time in USA (2026)

    The processing time for Indian passport renewal in the USA typically ranges between 3 to 6 weeks for normal applications. However, timelines can vary significantly depending on police verification status, documentation accuracy, and consulate workload.

    If your Police Verification Report (PVR) is already clear, your passport may be processed within 3–4 business days after VFS submission. On the other hand, unclear or pending PVR cases may extend the timeline to 30+ days.

    For urgent cases, Tatkal (expedited) service offers processing within 7–10 business days, sometimes even faster depending on verification status.

    Normal Processing:

    • Best Case (Clear PVR): 3–4 business days after VFS processing.

    • Typical Time: 3–6 weeks, though delays up to 30+ days can occur if verification is pending.

    • Key Factor: A clear PVR from India is critical; any pending verification causes major delays.

    Tatkal (Urgent) Processing:

    • Timeline: 7–10 business days, occasionally as fast as 3–4 days.

    • Best For: Urgent travel or time-sensitive renewals requiring immediate processing.

    Key Factors Affecting Processing Time:

    • Police Verification Report (PVR): A clear PVR ensures faster turnaround. Pending or unclear PVRs often cause 30+ day delays.

    • Document Accuracy: Any missing or incorrect document will pause the process until resolved.

    • VFS Processing: Involves mailing, internal verification (2–3 days), and forwarding to the consulate.

    • Embassy Processing: Adds several weeks for normal renewals due to background checks or volume.

    Tips for Faster Renewal:

    • Apply During Off-Peak Seasons: October–December often sees shorter queues and faster responses.

    • Double-Check Documents: Incomplete applications cause unnecessary delays — ensure all are signed and legible.

    • Opt for Tatkal: If travel is urgent, Tatkal service can expedite your renewal significantly.

    How to Check Status:

    Once your application has been submitted, track progress using your VFS Reference Number on the
    👉 VFS Global Tracking Portal.
    You’ll receive real-time updates as your file moves through verification, approval, and dispatch.

10. How Long Before Expiry You Should Renew

You can renew up to 1 year before expiry. For smoother travel, aim for 6 months before expiration.

11. How to Expedite or Tatkal Passport Renewal

Eligible applicants can opt for Tatkal Service for emergency travel. You’ll need:

  • Proof of urgency (travel ticket, employer letter)

  • Additional fees

  • Consular discretion approval

12. Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Using incorrect photo size or background

  • Forgetting to sign the printed form

  • Not attaching return shipping label

  • Submitting blurred copies of documents

13. Renewal for Minors and Seniors

For minors under 18:

  • Include both parents’ passports and consent forms.
    For seniors (over 60):

  • Renewal process is the same, but extra care with photos and signatures is required.

14. Change of Address or Name During Renewal

Provide supporting documents like:

  • Marriage certificate (for name change)

  • Address proof (lease, driver’s license)

  • Gazette notification (for legal name changes)

15. What to Do If Passport Is Lost or Damaged

File a police report, attach it with your application, and choose “Reissue – Lost/Damaged” in the form.

16. VFS Global Contact & Support Information

📧 Email: info@vfsglobal.com
🌐 Website: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind
📞 Call Center: +1-800-320-9693

17. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

  1. How can I renew my Indian passport in the USA?
    Register on the Passport Seva Portal, fill the form, pay via VFS Global, and mail your documents.

  2. How long does it take to renew an Indian passport in the USA?
    Normal processing: 3–4 weeks. Tatkal: 5–7 business days.

  3. How can I contact VFS Global for passport renewal queries in the USA?
    If you face any issues with your application or need to update details like your Application Reference Number (ARN), you can email VFS Global directly. Use one of the following official helpline addresses: passport.india@vfshelpline.com or info.indusa@vfshelpline.com

  4. Can I renew my passport 6 months before expiry?
    Yes, even up to 12 months before expiry.

  5. Can I change my address during renewal?
    Yes, submit new address proof with your application.

  6. Is Tatkal service available in the USA?
    Yes, with additional fees and approval from the consulate.

  7. What is the total cost for renewal?
    Around $90 (normal) and $240 (Tatkal).

  8. Do I need an appointment?
    Not for mail-in submissions; yes for in-person visits.

  9. Where do I send my documents?
    To the respective VFS Global center based on your jurisdiction.

  10. How can I track my application?
    Use your reference number on the VFS tracking page.

18. Conclusion & Useful Resources

Renewing your Indian passport in the USA has become smoother and faster thanks to digital processing via VFS Global. Following the above steps ensures a stress-free renewal process.

Useful Links: