Employment, Public & Specialist
Passports, Visas & Immigration
Passport issues, visas, OCI, foreigners' registration and related representations and petitions.
DLP's chamber: No. 548, A Block, High Court, Lucknow
What the law says
Indian passports are issued under the Passports Act, 1967, which also sets out the grounds on which a passport can be refused, impounded or revoked, including pending criminal proceedings. Entry, stay and registration of foreigners, including visas and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, are governed by the immigration and foreigners laws and the rules of the Bureau of Immigration. Common matters include passport refusals because of a pending case (where a court's permission may be needed), look-out circulars, visa extensions and OCI issues.
Consultation
Speak to the chamber.
Leave your name, number and a line about the matter. A member of the chamber will call or message you back during working hours.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get a passport if a criminal case is pending?
A passport can be refused while criminal proceedings are pending, but the court dealing with the case can grant permission, and the passport can then be issued for the period or purpose allowed.
What is a look-out circular?
An alert issued by an authorised agency to stop or report a person at immigration. It can be challenged before the High Court if issued without legal basis.
Who handles visa extensions and registration?
The Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or Foreigners Registration Officer, mostly through the online e-FRRO system.