By IANS,
Mumbai : From Aug 20, British nationals will be required to submit applications for issue of new or renewed passports only to the British high commission in New Delhi, an official said here Tuesday.
The move is part of a global initiative to streamline processes in which the consular sections of British deputy high commissions in Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Goa shall stop accepting applications for new passports or renewals.
The new process would also lead to a change in timelines, in line with global standards and service in Britain.
Renewed or new passports are expected to be issued to the applicants in four weeks from the date the high commission receives the correct documentation and fee, the official said. The first time passport applications could take a minimum of 12 weeks in order to complete all required checks and verifications, he added.
The official said that within this period if a British passport holder requires to travel urgently, the British consular offices at Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata and Goa would issue an emergency travel document, provided the pending application is for a renewal and not a first time application.
Further details are available on –
For India: http://ukinindia.fco.gov.uk/en/news/?view=PressR&id=22584748
General Information: http://www.fco.gov.uk/resources/en/pdf/travel-living abroad/passports/Changes_to_Overseas_Passport_Service