COVID-19: US Embassy in India issues repatriation guidance for US citizens

The U.S. State Department published guidance this week for Americans currently in India who wish to return to the United States.

Key Points:

• U.S. citizens wishing to depart India on a U.S. government-facilitated flight must fill out this form, including those who have previously registered, emailed, or otherwise contacted the U.S. Embassy.
• U.S. citizens are asked not to contact the embassy or consulate regarding flight status, as they will receive an email with flight and seat confirmation if applicable. Only those who receive a flight confirmation from the U.S. Mission will be permitted to board flights.
• Additionally, the U.S. Embassy in India has posted information for U.S. citizens who wish to return on one of the Air India flights traveling to the United States as part of the Indian repatriation operation. Those interested in returning on an Air India flight must contact the airline directly. Air India flight schedules are available here.

Additional information: The U.S. Embassy and Consulates are working to arrange additional chartered flights from India for U.S. citizens. The earliest flights are expected to begin next week and will depart from Mumbai and New Delhi for Atlanta and San Francisco. All adult passengers must sign a promissory note, agreeing to pay for the cost of the flight, before boarding.

BAL Analysis: The embassy and consulates have thus far successfully repatriated approximately 5,500 travelers from India to the United States. The response to the COVID-19 pandemic continues to develop, and BAL will provide additional updates as information becomes available.

This alert has been provided by the BAL U.S. Practice group. For additional information, please contact berryapplemanleiden@bal.com.

Copyright © 2020 Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. All rights reserved. Reprinting or digital redistribution to the public is permitted only with the express written permission of Berry Appleman & Leiden LLP. For inquiries please contact copyright@bal.com.