International travel necessitates a passport, and with globalization fostering more travel, the Indian Ministry of External Affairs handles a significant influx of passport applications. To streamline this process, the government introduced the Passport Seva portal, facilitating convenient submission, fee payment, and appointment scheduling for citizens across the nation. Below, we outline the steps to apply for a passport in India.
Steps to Apply for a Passport Online
Log in to the Passport Seva Portal (Link is given at the end of the article)
Visit the Passport Seva portal and log in with your credentials or register as a new user.
Select Passport Application Type- Fresh passport
- or Reissue
- Official
- or Diplomatic Passport
Complete the Online Application:
- Click on your selected application type.
- Provide the necessary details correctly and proceed with the application submission.
Pay Fees and Schedule Appointment:
- Access "View Saved/Submitted Applications."
- Choose "Pay and Schedule Appointment."
- Select a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and schedule your appointment.
- Pay the fees through your preferred online mode.
- Retain the application receipt or reference number sent via SMS.
Visit PSK for Verification:
Attend the appointed PSK with all original documents for verification.
Documents Required for Online Passport Application
Applicants need to submit the following documents online or offline:
- Proof of address (Rent agreement,Aadhaar card, utility bill, etc.)
- Proof of age (Aadhaar card, Birth Certificate, PAN card, Voter ID, etc.)
- Non-ECR documentary proof (if applicable)
Fees for Passport Application
The fees for various passport services are as follows:
| Service | Fee (in Rs.) | Extra fee for Tatkaal service (in Rs.) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh passport (36 pages, 10 years validity) | 1,500 | 2,000 |
| Reissue (36 pages, 10 years validity) | 1,500 | 2,000 |
| Fresh passport (60 pages, 10 years validity) | 2,000 | 2,000 |
| Reissue (60 pages, 10 years validity) | 2,000 | 2,000 |
| Minor's passport (below 18 years) | 1,000 | 2,000 |
| Passport replacement (36 pages) due to theft/damage | 3,000 | 2,000 |
| Passport replacement (60 pages) due to theft/damage | 3,500 | 2,000 |
| Passport replacement (36 pages) for personal details change | 1,500 | 2,000 |
| Passport replacement (60 pages) for personal details change | 2,000 | 2,000 |
| Minor's passport (36 pages) for personal details change | 1,000 | 2,000 |
Eligibility and Passport Validity
- Applicants must be Indian citizens.
- Adults (18+) and minors can apply for passports.
Passport validity:
- Regular (36 or 60 pages): 10 years from issuance.
- Minors' passports: 5 years or until they reach 18;
- Those aged 15-18 can opt for a 10-year validity.
Processing Time after Application Submission
- Normal application: 3+ working days (based on police verification)
- Tatkaal application: 1-3 working days (based on police verification)
- Complex cases: Approximately 30 working days
Tracking Application Status
Visit the Passport Seva platform, select "Track Application Status," enter details, and track the progress.
Passport Application FAQs
1. What benefits does the Passport Seva portal offer?
The portal facilitates online submission for fresh or reissued passports, status tracking, applications for Police Clearance Certificates, and Identity Certificates.
2. Can I apply for a passport offline? How?
Yes, you can download the application form from the official website, fill it out, and submit it at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra or Passport Seva office along with the required documents and fees.
3. Is it possible to modify details in a submitted passport application?
Yes, visit the Passport Seva Kendra where you submitted your application. A Citizen Service Executive (CSE) can authorize necessary changes. However, it's advisable to fill the form accurately before submission.
4. Can I cancel my passport application after submission? How?
Yes, you can cancel your application up to 3 days before the appointment date. Visit the Parivahan Seva portal, access "Submitted/View Saved Applications," and find the option for application cancellation under "Schedule Appointment."
5. Is it feasible to reschedule the passport appointment date?
Yes, you can reschedule the appointment twice a year within one year from the original appointment date.
6. What payment modes are available at the Passport Seva portal?
You can pay fees using:
- Credit or Debit card (MasterCard or Visa)
- SBI Bank Challan
- SBI Internet Banking
- Internet Banking using other banks
7. How can I track the status of my passport application?
Visit the Passport Seva platform, click on "Track Application Status," input details like Application Type, File Number, and Date of Birth, and then track the status.
8. What documents are required for an online passport application?
Applicants need to submit:
- Proof of address (Rent agreement,Aadhaar card, utility bill, etc.)
- Proof of age (Aadhaar card, Birth Certificate, PAN card, Voter ID, etc.)
- Non-ECR documentary proof if applicable
9. What is the validity of passports issued to minors?
Passports for minors are valid for 5 years or until they reach 18, whichever comes earlier. However, those aged between 15 and 18 can opt for a full 10-year validity.
10. How long does it take to process a passport application?
The processing time varies:
- Normal application: 3+ working days (depending on police verification)
- Tatkaal application: 1-3 working days (depending on police verification)
- Complex cases (e.g., adoption, doubtful documentation): Approximately 30 working days
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