step-by-step guide on how to get a passport in India,

Balasahana Suresh
🛂 How to Get a Passport in India

Getting a passport is now mostly digital and streamlined through the Passport Seva system.

1️⃣ Decide the Type of Passport

· Normal Passport – Standard processing (usually 30–60 days)

· Tatkal Passport – Fast-track processing for urgent travel (1–7 days)

· Diplomatic/Official Passport – For government officials

2️⃣ Where to Apply

You can apply online or offline:

🌐 Online

1. Visit Passport Seva Portal

2. Create a login (register)

3. Fill in the application form online

4. Schedule an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport office (RPO)

🏢 Offline

· You can also collect a physical form from your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or District Passport Cell

· Fill it manually and submit along with supporting documents

💡 Tip: Online applications are faster and more convenient.

3️⃣ Documents Required

The exact documents depend on your category (fresh passport or reissue), but usually you need:

Purpose

Documents Needed

Proof of Address (any one)

Aadhaar card, Voter ID, Driving License, Utility bills, bank statement

Proof of Date of Birth

Birth certificate, school leaving certificate, PAN card, Aadhaar

Identity Proof

Aadhaar, PAN card, Driving license

Photographs

Usually 2 passport-data-size photos (check exact specs)

For minors or Tatkal applications, additional documents like parental ID or birth certificates may be needed.

4️⃣ Pay the Fee

· Normal Passport: ₹1,500 (for 36 pages)

· Tatkal Passport: ₹3,500–₹4,000

· Payment can be online or at PSK.

5️⃣ Book an Appointment

· Log in to the Passport Seva portal

· Select nearest PSK/RPO

· Pick date and time

· Print your appointment receipt

💡 Tip: Arrive 15–20 minutes early with all documents.

6️⃣ Visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)

At the PSK:

1. Document Verification: Officers check originals

2. Biometrics & Photo Capture: Fingerprints, signature, and photo

3. Payment Confirmation (if not already paid online)

4. Acknowledgment Receipt – keep it for tracking

7️⃣ Police Verification

· Most applications require police verification, which usually happens after the PSK appointment

· A police officer may visit your residence to verify identity and address

8️⃣ Track Your Passport Status

· Log in to Passport Seva Portal

· Enter application number

· Track status: Under process → police verification → Printed → Dispatched

✅ Tips for Faster Passport Processing

· Apply online first and book PSK appointments early

· Ensure all documents are correct and originals match copies

· Choose a Tatkal option if urgent

· Track status online to avoid delays

🔹 Summary

Getting a passport involves:

1. Filling application (online/offline)

2. Scheduling PSK appointment

3. Submitting documents & biometrics

4. Police verification

5. Receiving your passport by post

A passport usually takes 30–45 days, but Tatkal can cut it down to 1–7 days.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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