ADVERTISEMENT
Consulate General of India in New York issues warning against overcharging by travel agents
This malpractice not only causes delays but also violates Indian regulations and exposes applicants to legal issues in the United States.
The advisory notes that fees charged by some agents are significantly higher than those stipulated by the Consulate. / X/@IndiainNewYork
The Consulate General of India in New York has issued an advisory alerting the public to numerous instances of travel agents overcharging applicants for assistance with consular services.
The advisory notes that fees charged by some agents are significantly higher than those stipulated by the Consulate, often accompanied by false promises of expedited service.
The Consulate has stated that they have encountered fake documents related to identity, residential address, and utility bills submitted by agents without the applicants’ knowledge. This malpractice not only causes delays but also violates Indian regulations and exposes applicants to legal issues in the United States.
The advisory also highlighted the presence of fake E-visa websites designed to mimic official Indian government sites. Additionally, it talks about the presence of fake E-visa websites designed to mimic official Indian government sites.
The Consulate emphasized that the fees for consular services, including QÇ, Visa, Passport, and Emergency Certificate, are clearly listed on their official website, and no additional fees are charged by the Consulate or VFS.
To assist applicants, the Consulate organizes an Open House on the first Wednesday (10 am to 1 pm) and third Wednesday (2 pm to 5 pm) of every month, allowing individuals to meet with consular officers without an appointment to address any queries regarding consular services.
Applicants are urged to use the official Consulate’s website for miscellaneous services, PCC for non-Indian passport holders, and emergency travel documents.
The Consulate General of India in New York advised all applicants to exercise extreme caution and utilize the proper channels for consular services to avoid unnecessary complications and ensure compliance with Indian and US regulations.
ADVERTISEMENT
ADVERTISEMENT
E Paper
Video
.jpg)
.png)
Comments
Start the conversation
Become a member of New India Abroad to start commenting.
Sign Up Now
Already have an account? Login