US stops third-party passport collection; all Indian applicants must collect in person

The United States has ended the facility allowing third-party passport collection, effective 1 August 2025. The change, according to the updated guidelines, is aimed at strengthening the safety and security of passports and supporting documents. Applicants are now required to collect their passports or visa documents in person from the embassy or consulate.

For applicants under 18 years of age, collection must be done by a parent or legal guardian. They must present an original consent letter signed by both parents, along with a clear photocopy of both parents’ Indian government-issued photo IDs showing their address. Scanned or emailed consent letters will not be accepted. Birth certificates or school ID cards may also be used as supporting documents for minors.

While in-person collection is now mandatory, applicants have the option to get their passports delivered to their home or office for a fee of ₹1,200 per applicant.


Documents required for collection
For adult applicants, the required documents include:

• Original valid Indian government-issued photo ID with address
  
• A photocopy of the same ID
  
• Copy of the appointment letter (preferred for faster processing)
  
  

For minors, the required documents include:

• Birth certificate or school ID card
  
• Original and photocopy of the parent/guardian’s Indian government-issued photo ID with address
  
• Original consent letter signed by both parents
  
• Photocopy of both parents’ Indian government-issued photo ID with address
  
  

Accepted IDs include the passport biographic information page, voter ID, driving licence, or Aadhaar card. Not accepted are employment ID cards issued for Indian government jobs, senior citizen cards, and PAN cards.

The updated rules apply to all US visa and passport pickups in India, and applicants are advised to check their documents in advance to avoid delays at the collection point.