Start with the Online Application
The passport process begins long before you step into the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). The first step is registering on the official Passport Seva portal, filling out the application form with complete accuracy, and paying the fee online. Any discrepancy
between the information on your form and your supporting documents can cause significant delays. After successful payment, you will book your appointment slot and receive an Application Reference Number (ARN) receipt. You must print this receipt and carry it with you to the PSK, as it is checked by security at the entrance.
Get Your Documents in Order
This is where most applications falter. You must carry original documents along with one set of self-attested photocopies. Missing originals is a common reason for being turned away. The core documents required for a fresh adult passport include Proof of Date of Birth and Proof of Present Address. For proof of birth, you can use a birth certificate, Aadhaar card, PAN card, or a school leaving certificate. For proof of address, an Aadhaar card, voter ID, recent utility bills, or a bank passbook are generally accepted. Ensure the address on your proof is current and matches the application form exactly.
Nailing the Passport Photo
While the photograph is now clicked live at the PSK during your appointment, understanding the requirements is still crucial, especially for certain application types or as a backup. If photos are required, they must meet strict specifications. The standard size is often debated, with some sources mentioning 35mm x 45mm and others the more common 2x2 inches (51mm x 51mm). It's best to check the latest guidelines on the official portal. The photo must be in colour with a plain white or off-white background, without any shadows. Your expression should be neutral with your eyes open and mouth closed. Headwear is not allowed unless for religious reasons, in which case your entire face must be visible. Glasses are also typically not permitted to avoid glare.
Understanding the Fee Structure
As of July 1, 2026, passport fees have been revised. The fee for a standard 36-page fresh passport for an adult is ₹2,500, while a 60-page booklet costs ₹3,500. If you need the passport urgently, the Tatkaal service is available for a higher fee: ₹5,000 for a 36-page book and ₹6,000 for a 60-page book. The payment is made online while booking the appointment on the Passport Seva portal. It's important to select the correct passport type (Normal/Tatkaal, page count) to pay the appropriate fee, as incorrect payments can halt your application.
On the Day of the Appointment
Arrive at the PSK about 15 minutes before your scheduled time; you won't be let in too early. At the entrance, a security guard will verify your ARN receipt. Once inside, you'll be issued a token. The process is typically divided into three stages at counters A, B, and C. At Counter A, a Citizen Service Executive will verify your documents, take your live photograph and biometrics (fingerprints), and scan everything into the system. At Counter B, a Verification Officer re-checks your original documents against the scanned copies. Finally, at Counter C, a Granting Officer makes the final decision on your application. Keep an eye on the display screens, as your token number will be called for each stage.
