Visitor visa application via VFS

[ddhmehta]

Is it mendatory to go through VFS for visa application in India?...

If not, can my parents file straight with Visa Application Center in India?...
Because only thing they have to do is to fill DS-156 and DS-157, hence it seems like there is no need to just pay Rs. 276.00 to VFS. But if it is the only way to apply through them, than we will have to go that route.

I would appreciate any response. Thanks very much.

[sonujan]

Hi!

Hi!
They have to go through VFS to get an appointment for a visa interview at the US Consulate in India. I don't think there is no other way of going to the Consulate. What do you mean by Visa Application Center?

More over the VFS charges are for the courier charges. After the visa is issued at the Consulate, they would sen it back to you through courier. The charge that they collect is basically for that. With the TTS it was higher Rs441 or so.

[ddhmehta]

Visitor Visa Application Center

US Consulate in India has opened visa application center at approx. 12 places within in India. Namely Ahmedabad would be the closest place where my parents can apply. That's what I meant by visa application center.

But it seems like from your reply that VFS is the only way, you can get your appointment. Thus that would be the only to apply for Non-Immigrant visa...right?.. Then what does Visa application center do?... I am getting confused whether to tell my parents to approach VFS or Visa Application Center.

Anyway, what I have understood from your reply is that, they can file their DS-156 and DS-157 at Visa Application Center after paying fees at HDFC. But then they have to make appointment with VFS for interview. Please correct me if this is not the right order of doing business. Because I do not want my old parents to go through any hassel at their end. Thank you very much again for your time and assistance.

[immihelp]

VFS and Visa Application Center is one and same thing.

VFS is the name of the company that has Visa Application Centers.

Entire procedure is given at https://www.immihelp.com/usa-visas/visitor. Just follow that.