Who Can Apply?
Every Indian citizen, regardless of age, has the right to apply for a passport. This includes adults of 18 years and above, as well as minors under 18.
Senior citizens are also eligible, and government employees can apply, though they might require specific permissions depending on their service. It's important to note that while foreign nationals of Indian origin can't get an Indian passport, they may qualify for an OCI card. The process is designed to be inclusive and accessible to all eligible citizens planning international journeys.
Understanding E-Passports
India has upgraded to e-passports, a modern, secure version of the traditional booklet. These passports feature a small, embedded RFID chip that stores your essential personal and biometric data in a digital format. This technological leap enhances security, reduces the risk of identity fraud, and significantly speeds up immigration procedures at airports worldwide. The presence of a distinctive gold symbol on the cover signifies an e-passport, ready for global e-verification systems.
The Online Application Steps
The journey to acquiring your passport begins online. First, create an account on the official Passport Seva website. Once registered, log in and select the option for a 'Fresh Passport or Re-issue.' Diligently complete the application form with accurate details. Next, you'll need to pay the requisite fees and schedule an appointment at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). Choose a convenient date and time, then download your appointment confirmation. On the day of your appointment, remember to bring all original documents and their photocopies. This is where your biometrics will be captured and your documents verified. Following your PSK visit, local police will conduct an address verification for most fresh passport applications. Finally, you can track your application's progress online using your file number. Upon approval, your passport will be delivered to you via post.
Essential Documents Checklist
Gathering the correct documents is crucial for a smooth application. You'll need to present both original documents and self-attested photocopies. For address proof, any one of the following will suffice: an Aadhaar card, Voter ID, a recent utility bill, a bank statement, or a rental agreement. To prove your date of birth, a birth certificate, school leaving certificate, PAN card, or Aadhaar card can be used. For identity proof, an Aadhaar card, PAN card, or Voter ID is acceptable. Additionally, certain situations may require further documentation, such as a marriage certificate for name changes due to marriage, documents related to a legal name change, parent's address proof if applying for a minor, or a police report if your previous passport was lost.
Passport Fees Explained
The cost of an Indian passport varies based on the number of pages and whether you opt for the normal or Tatkal service. For adults aged 18 and above, a 36-page normal passport costs ₹1,500, while the Tatkal service is ₹3,500. A 60-page passport for adults is ₹2,000 for normal and ₹4,000 for Tatkal. For minors, a 36-page normal passport is priced at ₹1,000, and the Tatkal option is ₹3,000. These fees cover the processing and issuance of your travel document.
At The PSK Appointment
Your visit to the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) is a key stage in the application process. During your appointment, your submitted documents will be meticulously verified against the originals you bring. Your photograph will be taken, and your fingerprints will be recorded as part of the biometric data capture. You will also have a brief interaction with an officer to confirm details. Following this, you will receive an acknowledgment of your application, marking the completion of your on-site visit.
The Police Verification Process
Police verification is a standard procedure for most fresh passport applications in India. This process involves local police officials confirming your residential address. For applicants opting for the Tatkal scheme, the passport might be issued first, with the police verification occurring subsequently. In cases of re-issue, depending on the specifics of your application and previous passport details, police verification might sometimes be waived. The verification ensures the accuracy of the information provided in your application.
Passport Delivery Timeline
The time it takes to receive your passport can vary. A normal passport application is typically processed and delivered within 15 to 30 days. For urgent travel needs, the Tatkal scheme offers a significantly faster turnaround, with passports usually delivered within 1 to 7 days. The final delivery timeline is influenced by factors such as the completion of police verification and the accuracy and completeness of the information submitted in your application.
