Last week I applied for a 10 year, multi-visit visa through Travisa Outsourcing in Washington, DC, USA. The instructions on their website are clear and easy to follow. They told me that it would take up to 5 business days after they recieved my application to accept or deny the visa. I was biting my nails since the application fee is non-refundable! Total cost was a $13 administrative fee plus $150 for the visa itself.

I sent my materials to them last Thursday, the 28th of January. Friday, they sent me an email that they’d recieved the required documentation. (I love Fedex!) Today, the 2nd of February, I received notification from them via email that my request had been approved by the Indian Consulate. They are shipping my passport with new Visa back to me today. I’m very pleased with the way they expedited my request and stayed in touch with me.

In 2008, I used Travel Document Systems, Inc in Washington, DC to secure my Indian Visa. It was a one year Visa. They provided the same speed and professionalism as Travisa Outsourcing. I called them first when I realized I needed a new visa. They told me it would be about $300 to secure the visa, with the same proviso that my money would not be refunded if the visa were refused. I really enjoyed the crisp, clear way in which they answered my questions. But, after speaking with Travisa Outsourcing, I had them get my visa for about half the cost! I’m glad that I did.

I went to Quito on business for Gary in 2000. I noticed my passport had expired 2 days before the trip began! (Things tend to happen quickly with the Scott’s!) I raced over to Miami from our home in Naples, Florida and stood in lines in order to get my passport as quickly as possible. I made the round trip to Miami in about 6 hours! I think that is record time for dealing with the Department of State! Fortunately, I didn’t need a Visa for that trip.

February 3rd…

I received my Indian visa:

My 10 year visa!

Note that I removed my passport number and the visa number. I decided to get a tourist visa, cuz that’s what I am, a spiritual tourist. I’m all set to make my plane reservations.

I’ll list approximate costs for this upcoming trip to India in my next posting.