Finding information about US - India transit, visas, and laws can prove difficult amid the legal jargon and complicated procedures associated with government offices and processes. Houston Indian community members wishing to obtain a visa, contact a representative, or locate necessary forms and phone numbers can use this guide to help make their experience more smooth and painless.


The Embassy of India in Washington, D.C. can connect visitors with assistance, as well as with Ambassador Ronen Sen, who is highly experienced in foreign affairs and previously served as the High Commissioner to the United Kingdom. The embassy offers information on current India - US relations, as well as providing links to consulates and services throughout the country.


The Consulate General of India in Houston is the main portal through which visas, passports, and other vital materials can be obtained. Indian passports for new or renewed issuance must be applied for online, and it should be noted that the recent implementation of the online system can result in significant delays; applications should be filed as soon as possible to avoid any problems. General guidelines for Indian passport holders and new applicants can be found here. To apply for a passport or renewal, visit the application page and review the guidelines before printing, filling, and sending in your application. An appointment time and date with the Consulate will be assigned to you upon completion of the application, as well as a file number so that you can check the status of your application and forms online. For special concerns related to passports, such as significant change of appearance, change of name, extension of a short validity passport, issuance of a replacement passport, and forms for minors, visit the passport services page here.


A visa to travel to India must also be obtained through the Consulate Office. Official and Diplomatic visas can be obtained directly through the office, and individuals working in certain technology fields (check here for a complete list) must apply separately. All regular visas have recently been outsourced to Travisa. While ample time should be allowed for visa processing and delivery, the agency does provide rush service for a fee. Visa applications can be submitted in person at Travisa's Houston office, located at 4100 Westheimer Road, Suite #113, Houston, TX, 77027. Applicants can also send their forms via postal mail, to the same address. To begin an Indian visa application through Travisa, visit the application page.


The Consulate also provides information on obtaining forms such as birth and marriage certificates, changes of address, and consular attestation of power of attorney. To access these guidelines, as well as many other resources, visit the miscellaneous page here.


For American and Indian citizens wishing to travel between countries, the sometimes frustrating tangle of forms and phone numbers can be a pain. With this guide as your secret weapon, this preliminary paperwork can simply be a breeze that hastens the enjoyment of your journey. Bon Voyage!