Passport..It can be said that this is a very important document in recent times. Whether it is for foreign travel, study abroad or employment, Indians depend on their passport. The process of getting this passport is now simplified online, making it easier for those who need a passport.
This article explains the complete process of applying for a passport in India, including the required documents, fees and time details.
Step-by-step guide to applying for a passport:
- Account on Passport Seva Portal:
To apply for a passport online, first you need to visit the official portal (Passport Seva Portal). There, as a new user, select the “Register Now” option. Register by entering your name, date of birth, email address, username and password. Then log in.
- Fill in the application form:
After logging in, select the option “Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport”. Enter your personal information, address, identification information etc. correctly. Check it before submitting the form.
- Fee Payment and Appointment Scheduling:
After submitting the application, click on “Pay and Schedule Appointment”. Select the PSK (Passport Seva Kendra) or POPSK (Post Office Passport Seva Kendra) nearest to you. You can pay the fee using debit card, credit card or net banking. After payment, select a date and time that is convenient for you. Take a printout of the payment receipt.
- Visit the service center:
On the selected date, go to the center of your choice. You should carry the original documents and photocopies. There, document verification, photo taking, fingerprinting and other processes will take place.
- Police Verification:
The police verification will be based on your address. The police will visit your house and check the purity of the information. In this case, it is very important that you are at home and provide the necessary documents.
- Track Application Status:
You can check the status of your passport application by entering your file number and date of birth in the “Track Application Status” section on the Passport Seva website.
Required Documents:
Address Proof (Any One):
- Aadhar Card
- Voter ID Card
- Copy of Electricity, Water or Telephone Bills
- Bank Statement
- Registered Rent Agreement
Proof of date of birth (any one):
- Birth certificate
- School certificate (school leaving certificate)
- PAN card
- Aadhaar card
Additional documents (if required):
- Marriage certificate (if name change is required)
- Divorce decree or court order
- If old passport is lost, police FIR copy should be provided
Passport fee details:
Adults (18 years and above):
- 36-page regular passport: ₹1,500
- 36-page Tatkal passport: ₹3,500
- 60-page regular passport: ₹2,000
- 60-page Tatkal passport: ₹4,000
Minors (below 18 years):
- 36-page regular passport: ₹1,000
- Tatkal passport: ₹3,000
Normal Service:
- With Police Verification: 25-30 Working Days
- Without Verification: 7-10 Working Days
Eligibility Criteria:
- Must be an Indian citizen (by birth, registration or naturalization)
- Not have any criminal record
- Parental consent is required in the names of minors
- Additional document verification is possible for Tatkal service
By following these steps, you can get a passport easily and without any hassle. Accurate documents, timely appointments, and honest information will help you complete the process successfully. A passport is your gateway to traveling abroad, and applying in the right manner will pave the way for future opportunities.