Highlights
- There will be a considerable delay in processing times of consular services
- Consulate starts two helplines for delivery of services
- Consulate suspends walk-ins and requests for routine services in the wake of the coronavirus outbreak
Issuing new guidelines, the Indian Consulate has declared that processing times of all consular services will be considerably affected.
“To support health and safety of our staff, clients, and the wider community, and to support social distancing measures to reduce the impact of coronavirus transmission, no walk-ins or requests for routine consular services will also be entertained in the consulate until further notice,” the Indian Consulate in Melbourne said in a statement issued on Tuesday.
The Consulate has started two temporary numbers, 0402 398 433, 0481 436 275 to assist with delivery of services such as visa, passport, OCI, police clearance and attestation.
It has further advised all Indian nationals to take “abundant personal precautions,” and be guided by relevant instructions of local authorities.
Consulate General of India to Melbourne, Raj Kumar had earlier advised international students and passport holders to register with the Consulate or the High Commission so that they have their records and can reach out to them in times of need.
Consul General of India to Melbourne, Raj Kumar Source: CGI Melbourne
The Consulate provides miscellaneous consular services and emergency visa services in extreme compassionate cases.
Applicants requiring emergency consular services must contact at ‘0430 020 828’ or [email protected] explaining the urgency, for assessment of their request and guidance regarding the process.
People in Australia must stay at least 1.5 metres away from others and gatherings are limited to two people unless you are with your family or household.
If you believe you may have contracted the virus, call your doctor (don’t visit) or contact the national Coronavirus Health Information Hotline on 1800 020 080.
If you are struggling to breathe or experiencing a medical emergency, call 000.
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