Can I apply for NIE from US before traveling to India

India
1

I have an urgent travel requirement to travel to India. I am wondering if I can apply for NIE before my travel to India or will I have to be present in India before applying for NIE.

2

You dont need to be in India to request NIE.

3

Are you sure? Most of the embassies mention that you can’t apply for NIE from USA.
I wanted to confirm about Indian embassies.

4

Is this documented on their website? If yes, please share the link.

At least the faq do not say whether you need to be in India or not.

https://in.usembassy.gov/visas/national-interest-exception-frequently-asked-questions/

Visa holders with definite plans to travel who can demonstrate qualification for a National Interest Exception may contact the Embassy or Consulate that issued their visa to request a national interest exception prior to travel:

The email must include the following information for all travelers seeking an exception, as it appears on the visa:

Last name:

First name:

Date of birth, in DDMMMYYY format (ie – 01JAN2021):

Gender (M/F):

Country of birth:

Country of citizenship:

Passport number:

Visa Number* and Category:

Issuing Post Name (upper left corner of visa):

Travel dates:

Travel purpose and national interest category, including a clear justification for receipt of a NIE:

*The visa number, also known as the visa foil number, is located on the lower right of the visa.

Each request will be carefully considered as our limited resources allow. Emails in languages other than English may slow response time. We aim to respond to each request within two weeks but cannot guarantee a decision date or the outcome of the decision. Errors in the submitted data may prevent approval in NIE requests.

Please note that national interest exceptions, when granted, are valid for multiple entries for up to 12 months of approval.