H1B Dropbox experience at US Embassy in Mumbai

I recently used the dropbox facility for my second H1-B VISA stamping, at the US Embassy in Mumbai. The experience was a smooth one, and is definitely hassle free compared to the in-person finger printing and interview process. The requirements for using the dropbox can be found here, and the list of dropbox locations across India can be found here.

The documents I submitted are as below:
1) I797 Copy
2) DS-160 confirmation printout
3) Dropbox confirmation letter
4) All previous and current passports.
5) One 2 X 2 inch recent photo (Please note, this photo has to be different from the one in passport even if it was clicked recently)

The whole process took about a week for me and here is the entire timeline.

Nov 23rd - Dropped off the document
Nov 24th - Case created - VISA status: Ready
Nov 27th - Case updated - VISA Status: Admin Processing
Nov 30th - Case updated - VISA Status: Issued and Passport ready for pickup

Visa requirements for Indian citizens in USA

After my travels, many people have asked me "So do I need a VISA to go there?", so I created this blog post, which highlights the countries on the map where the India passport works without an actual VISA stamp from that country's embassy (I've added an additional option for individuals with a valid US VISA).

Disclaimer: The information is current as of today, to the best of my knowledge, but you're advised to contact the embassy of the respective country before you make any travel plans.

Countries and territories with visa-free or visa-on-arrival entries for holders of regular Indian passports*

  India

  Visa free

  Visa issued upon arrival

  Electronic authorisation or eVisa

  Visa required prior to arrival

  Visa free if holding a valid USA Visa stamp

**The map is an enhanced version, and courtesy, of the Wikipedia article here

*Additional notes:

• Turkey eVISA is valid only if you have a valid Schengen or OECD member's visa
• UK and Ireland have a joint VISA program
• U.A.E e-VISA: can be obtained online from either Emirates, Qatar or Eithad airlines, provided flying with them, and has visa on arrival for US Visa or Green card holders.
• Taiwan: Travelers need an electronic certificate along with a valid US Visa stamp.
• South Korea: Max. 30 days VISA free if in transit to/from USA.
• Canada: US VISA holders usually get a 10 year multiple entry VISA if they apply for one.
• Cuba: A tourist card needs to be purchased from the departure country. Cost can vary between $20 to $85. India does not sell these cards, so the person has to be a resident in a country like US, Canada, Mexico, etc. to be eligible for this.
• Oman: eVISA can be applied on evisa.rop.gov.om provided holding a valid US, Canada, Schengen or UK Visa.
• Chile: Visa free with US B1/B2 visa
• Argentina: eTA for $50 USD if holding a valid US B1/B2 visa.