IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? India’s official visa outsourcing partner in the United States, Cox and Kings Global Services (CKGS), is moving to bar third-party visa pick-up from their offices. Instead, CKGS will return completed documents to the address provided on the visa application form and will require that this address match the applicant’s “proof of jurisdiction” document.

What does the change mean? CKGS will not permit third parties to retrieve completed documents for applications submitted on or after July 31. Original documents, including passports with issued visas, will be shipped directly to the address provided on the visa application form. Applications for which the address does not match the address on the “proof of jurisdiction” document (e.g., a driver license, utility bill or rental agreement) will not be accepted.

  • Implementation time frame: The change takes effect Monday, July 31.
  • Visas/permits affected: All Indian visa applications submitted through a third-party to the U.S. offices of CKGS.
  • Who is affected: Anyone applying for Indian visas in the U.S. through a third-party. Submission and retrieval of original documents from CKGS offices in the U.S. should still be possible for applicants who wish to do so on their own, without the help of a third party.
  • Impact on processing times: The changes are not expected to alter processing times themselves, but visa processing could be delayed in cases where applicants do not adhere to the new rules. Delivery of completed documents may be delayed if applicants are unable to retrieve the shipment.

BAL Analysis: The new requirements could pose challenges when coordinating visa delivery to employees who are not at their residential address at the time when their visas are issued. It could also complicate matters for those who prefer to have their shipment delivered to their business address or a third party. No signature requirement is expected for these shipments, which could present security concerns. BAL will continue to follow developments on this matter and will work with clients to ease concerns and administrative burdens where possible.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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