Web-Based Non-Immigrant Visa System in Chennai
Posted Feb 22, 2002

The U.S. Consulate in Chennai, India has started using a web-based non-immigrant visa appointment system. The consulate initiated use of the system on February 13, 2002. Qualified applicants for non-immigrant (temporary) visas are able to schedule appointments via <http://www.ttsvisas.com>. There is no fee for the service.

On March 4, 2002, this program will become mandatory for individuals who are not eligible for "DropBox" or "Business Express." The online application and the website's FAQs contain a checklist to determine eligibility for the DropBox procedure. There are 15 categories of DropBox eligibility, for individuals within the Chennai consular district in southern India. These include: returning F-1 students, J-1, H-1 and L-1 initial applications and renewals, and dependants of F-1, H1B, J-1, or L-1 visa holders. Please note that there is a fee for the DropBox service. Additional information on the Chennai DropBox can be found in earlier MurthyBulletin articles such as the following, all available on MurthyDotCom: Tips on H1B and H4 Visa Process Via Chennai DropBox, Changes to Fees and Procedures at Chennai Consulate, and Chennai's New Student Visa DropBox and DropBox Fee.

"Business Express" is a specialized program for member businesses. According to the above-referenced Chennai consulate website, it is limited to select, pre-screened businesses located within the Chennai consular district. It is not available to U.S. companies.

The web-based appointment system is currently being used for cases processed through New Delhi and Mumbai and it is expected to significantly reduce the waiting lines for non-immigrant visas at Chennai. We know the new scheduling method will be helpful to many of our MurthyBulletin and MurthyDotCom readers who need to obtain visas through the Chennai consulate.