In a landmark initiative to better serve the Indian diaspora across the United States, nine new Indian Consular Application Centers (ICACs) were officially inaugurated on August 1, 2025, including a major operational hub in Chicago. This expansion, led by the Consulate General of India in Chicago in partnership with VFS Global, aims to make consular services more accessible, transparent, and user-friendly for over 5.3 million Indian Americans.

Launch event and participation

The main inauguration ceremony took place in Columbus, Ohio, officiated by Ambassador of India to the United States, H.E. Shri Vinay Mohan Kwatra. All other ICACs, including those in Raleigh, Orlando, Los Angeles, San Jose, Dallas, Detroit, Edison, Boston, and Chicago, joined the event virtually.

This opening brings the total number of Indian Consular Application Centers in the U.S. to 17, with Los Angeles being the latest addition.

Ambassador Kwatra remarked, “These centers will not only improve the efficiency and speed of service delivery but also bring essential services closer to the community. People-to-people ties form the backbone of India-U.S. relations, and this expansion reflects that commitment.”

Chicago community response

The Chicago ICAC, now a primary service hub under the jurisdiction of the Consulate General of India, Chicago, saw a steady stream of visitors on its opening day. Community leaders, local officials, and longtime Indian residents welcomed the expansion as “a long-awaited solution to years of logistical challenges.”

In a virtual address, Consul General Somnath Ghosh said, “We are deeply committed to serving the Indian community with the highest standards of efficiency and dignity. The new centers—including Chicago and Detroit—will significantly enhance the delivery of critical services.”

Enhanced services and user-centric features

According to Mayank Bhagwat, Media In-Charge for VFS Global (North America), the new ICACs offer modern facilities and a comprehensive suite of services, including:

• India visa applications
• Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI)
• Passport renewal and application
• Renunciation of Indian citizenship
• Police Clearance Certificates (PCC)
• Attestation and registration services
• Global Entry Program (GEP) enrollment support

Bhagwat emphasized the centers are designed for transparency, accessibility, and affordability, with user-friendly features provided at no extra cost, “We have standardized services across all ICACs, including free document photocopying, digital photograph capture, and form-filling assistance. Additionally, return courier charges are now included in the revised service fee to simplify the experience for applicants.”

The centers will operate six days a week, including Saturdays, allowing easier access for working individuals and families.

VFS Global’s role and track record

VFS Global, the exclusive partner of the Government of India for consular services in the U.S., has managed visa and passport operations since 2020. Operating in 165 countries with over 3,900 application centers worldwide, VFS Global has processed more than 499 million applications to date.

Amit Kumar Sharma, Head of North America & Caribbean, VFS Global, said, “We’re honored by the Government of India’s continued trust in our capabilities. This expansion is part of our commitment to support the vibrant Indian diaspora and their growing consular needs.”

Important notice for Chicago jurisdiction residents

Indian residents under the Chicago Consulate’s jurisdiction are now required to route all miscellaneous consular services—such as affidavits and Police Clearance Certificates (PCCs)—through the ICACs in Chicago or Detroit.

For more information and appointments

Applicants can book appointments and learn more about services offered at ICACs across the U.S. by visiting:
www.services.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind