Date:30/07/2006 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2006/07/30/stories/2006073002830300.htm

Back US Consular exchange rate to go up

Our Bureau

New Delhi, July 29

The US Consular exchange rate of dollarwill be raised from Rs 46 to Rs 48 to the dollar from August 7, the US Embassy said here on Friday.

The decision had been taken because of the recent fall in the value of the rupee against other currencies, including the dollar.

"Effective Monday, the US Consular sections in India will adjust the consular exchange rate from Rs 46 to Rs 48 to the dollar, thereby, increasing all rupee denominated costs of applying for visas and passports at the US Embassy and Consulates General," the US Embassy statement said.

The $100 non-immigrant visa application fee, paid at HDFC branch banks prior to the scheduling of visa appointments, will now cost Rs 4,800. This, however, does not include HDFC or VFS fees. Applicants who have purchased demand draft for Rs 4,600 prior to August 7 will not be required to bring the additional Rs 200 to cover the increase.