Tips on H1B and H4 Visa Process Via Chennai DropBox
Posted Mar 11, 2001

In previous MurthyBulletins, we have provided updates on the nonimmigrant and immigrant visa application process at the U.S. Consulate at Chennai (Madras), India. Prior articles have discussed drop box criteria and procedures, changes in visa fees, etc.

Previously we reported that drop box locations had been added in Bangalore and Hyderabad, and that tracking information for applications was now available online. We are now happy to provide some additional tips based upon recent experiences of visa applicants.

First of all, processing times are reportedly quite good, about 4 days. Please arrive early to the drop box location, because you may find a large number of people already waiting. Better yet, to reduce your waiting time, apply first through the website. Those who have already applied online are given priority when they go to the TT Services office.

Please note that the OF-156 form needs to be completed and submitted. The instructions at the TT Services website are not very clear on this point. For more detailed information on the documentation required for the visa, take a look at our website or the Chennai consulate website.

While the OF-156 indicates that one photo is to be attached, it may be helpful to have a second photo, in case that is needed. Also, when applying for the H4 together with the H1B, it is not necessary to have additional copies of supporting documents that are already submitted for the H1B. Of course, the crucial documentation needed for the H4 visa is that the Marriage certificate and wedding photographs for the spouse and birth certificates for the children.

The streamlining of the drop box system at Chennai may serve as a model for the other consulates in India, and possibly other busy consular offices around the world. So far the joint venture between the U.S. Consulate and a private agency, TT Services, seems to be a successful prototype that the U.S. Department of State may emulate at other consulates.