Complaints are mounting about the delay in getting emergency visas to
Though the consulate in
Currently, OCI Card holders are allowed to travel like Indian
citizens – without any restriction.
People apply for emergency visas for a variety of reasons, including illness of
a loved one, and problems in one’s family or business. Many even book an air
ticket, expecting the visa to come in with the usual promptness.
While people who go to the consulate to apply if a family
member dies in India, generally still get their visa the same day, those who apply
online and mail their U.S. passports are kept waiting without the courtesy of
an explanation or a response.
Community leaders say they deal with many people calling in to seek help
getting the emergency visa. While the consulate officials have responded to
requests from organizations at least, these groups are still seeking a
long-term solution to the problem.
Some people question the need for an emergency visa if one already holds a
valid visa. They argue that given the paucity of flights and the strict
measures implemented in
They say that, at best, the consulate can ask people to get
prior permission before traveling, rather than having to go through the process
of getting a new visa. They argue that now that many people have received the
Covid vaccine, the authorities should revisit the rules demanding emergency
visas – and expedite work at the
The consulate officials have not responded to questions from IndiaLife.