How to apply for a Passport in India?

Applying for a passport in India is a straightforward process that can be done both online and offline. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:

Step 1: Register Online

Visit the official Passport Seva Portal: https://www.passportindia.gov.in

Create an account: If you’re a new user, click on New User Registration. Fill in the required details to create your account.

Login: After registration, log in using your credentials.

Step 2: Fill the Application Form

Click on “Apply for Fresh Passport / Reissue of Passport” under the Applicant Home section.

Choose the type of passport service: Select Fresh Passport or Reissue as per your requirement.

Fill in the application form:

You can either fill the form online or download the PDF version, fill it offline, and upload it later.

Provide all necessary personal details like name, address, date of birth, and other information.

Step 3: Submit and Pay

Submit the application: After filling out the form, submit it online.

Pay the fees: The application fee can be paid online via net banking, credit card, debit card, or UPI. The fee for a normal passport (36 pages) is approximately ₹1,500, and for a jumbo passport (60 pages), it’s ₹2,000.

Step 4: Schedule an Appointment

Schedule your appointment: After payment, you’ll need to schedule an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Passport Office.

Download the application receipt: After scheduling, you’ll get a receipt with your Application Reference Number (ARN) and appointment details.

Step 5: Visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)

Documents to carry:

Original documents along with photocopies (self-attested):

Proof of Date of Birth (e.g., birth certificate, matriculation certificate).

Address Proof (e.g., Aadhar card, voter ID, driving license).

Identity Proof (e.g., Aadhar card, PAN card).

Proof of citizenship (if applicable).

Biometric and Verification: At the PSK, you’ll need to complete the verification process which includes biometric data capture (fingerprints, photo) and document verification.

Step 6: Police Verification

After your visit to the PSK, the police verification will be conducted at your address. Ensure that you’re available for this process and provide the required information to the police officer.

Step 7: Track Application Status

You can track the status of your passport application online by logging into the Passport Seva Portal or by using the Track Application Status feature.

Step 8: Receive Passport

Once the police verification is cleared and the application is approved, you will receive your passport via registered post to the address provided in your application.

Documents Required (Common)

Proof of Address: Aadhar card, voter ID, driving license, utility bills, etc.

Proof of Date of Birth: Birth certificate, matriculation certificate, or PAN card.

ID Proof: Aadhar card, PAN card, voter ID, or any government-issued ID.

Passport Fees (As of 2024)

Ordinary Passport (36 pages): ₹1,500 (Normal), ₹3,500 (Tatkal)

Jumbo Passport (60 pages): ₹2,000 (Normal), ₹4,000 (Tatkal)

Additional Tips:

Tatkal Passport: If you need the passport urgently, opt for the Tatkal scheme, which speeds up the process but comes at an extra cost.

Appointment availability: The earlier you book, the more appointment slots you’ll find.

Check document requirements: Depending on your case (fresh passport, reissue, minors, etc.), the documents may vary.

For more details, visit the official Passport Seva website.