Embassy update

We haven't received our visas back from passport processing yet, but in the meantime we followed up with ACS at the US Embassy about the time they quoted us for obtaining the baby's exit visa, and received the following reply:

Dear Bluebird,

The time line is a new policy by the Indian Government.  We had people get their exit visa less than 10 days and others more than that time.  I just wanted to let you know in advance so you can be prepared.  I would think expect up to 10 days although the Government of India told us from 10 – 20 days.  Most people haven’t hired a lawyer, but if you feel more comfortable doing so, then it is your choice.

Thank you.

American Citizen Services New Delhi

This has eased our minds a bit, as staying for possibly over a month would require us to rethink finances, travel & accommodations, pet sitting plans, and work schedules. Unfortunately, neither of our employers offers paternity leave; we must use our earned vacation (which is paltry in the U.S.) and once exhausted, would have to take FMLA unpaid.  So we will tentatively plan for 3 weeks, but hopefully can return home with the baby sooner.

We have talked to a few people who have done the FRRO process by themselves and were fine, but they were very meticulous with their paperwork. We are considering using a lawyer that has been recommended by many, as the service would give us some peace of mind for the FRRO portion, which would cost $200 USD for a singleton ($300 for twins).  If they can facilitate the process to get us through FRRO quicker, the fee would be offset by the expense of staying in India.

We will continue to monitor the situation and other folks' exit process to see if the lawyer and extended stay are warranted.  If you have any relevant information, please share!

On the baby front, we have received no updates.  No news is good news!

Not our baby, just a random funny image from the web!