H1B, H4 Visa

After going through the process of trying to schedule a visa interview, I determined that I was eligible for the Dropbox facility. Once you get the Dropbox confirmation letter, you'll notice that it is not very clear about what needs to be done so I wanted to share my experience going through the new process.

I was eligible for the Dropbox facility as I was:
1) renewing my H1B which had expired less than 12 months ago
2) same visa category
3) same petitioner (employer)
4) passport was valid for at least the next 6 months

I went to the Stanley office (Offsite collection center or OFC) in New Delhi with my passport, visa, my I-797 petition, Dropbox confirmation letter and visa fee receipt. Not knowing what to expect, I also took a letter from my employer, my salary slips and bank statements. I was ushered in after a quick security check and my passport and docs were given a quick look by folks at the front desk. The lady asked whether the visa renewal is for the same petitioners and visa class fork which I responded yes. Soon after that, I was given a purple token and was asked to take a seat inside.

I waited my turn to be called to an OFC agent who checked my docs and asked me similar questions. I was asked to give my passport and the ORIGINAL I-797 along with the Dropbox confirmation letter and visa fee receipt and the DS-160 barcode page along with one photo. I was a bit apprehensive about giving away my original I-797 since the letter only indicated copies of the original, but nevertheless I complied.

I then asked if other docs were required for which she firmly responded No and added that I could only send ONE additional document of my choosing along with the above. Confused with the answer, I chose to give my employer's letter (on company letterhead) as it made more sense to me. The agent took my docs and told me that I would be informed by mail. All this took roughly about 15-20 mins.

After that, I got the following email from the consulate:

"Dear YYYY

Your document(s) have been collected from the US Embassy/Consulate.

The passport number being returned is YYYY ZZZ

You have chosen to have your documents delivered to the following location:
Delhi, S - 1 American Plaza, NewDelhi, 110019

If you have any issues or concerns, please contact us at www.ustraveldocs.com/in."

Since the email was a bit vague whether the docs are ready to be picked up or not, I called the helpline number and confirmed the same. I went in and picked up my passport and was returned all the documents that I had initially submitted along with it (including the original I-797).

Overall, I think it was a decent experience with the new process and it certainly saved a lot of time for everyone. Hope my account helps someone. Good luck to all!