Apply for a Passport in India

How to Apply for a Passport in India: Step-by-Step Guide, Fees, and Documents Required

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Apply for a Passport in India
New Delhi – Whether you’re planning an overseas vacation, pursuing education abroad, or preparing for international business travel, a valid Indian passport is your gateway to the world. Fortunately, applying for a passport in India has become a far smoother and more streamlined experience in recent years. Gone are the days of long queues and piles of paperwork—thanks to digital transformation, you can now complete the process online with just a few clicks.

Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to apply for a passport in India, including the documents required, fees, timelines, and the full step-by-step process.

Step 1: Register Online

To begin, visit the official Passport Seva website at passportindia.gov.in. If you’re a new user, select “New User Registration” and fill in basic details like your name, date of birth, email ID, and login credentials. Once registered, log in to your account to proceed further.

Step 2: Fill the Application Form

After logging in, choose whether you want a fresh passport or a re-issue. The online form requires you to provide personal details such as your address, educational qualifications, and family information. Ensure that all information entered is accurate to avoid delays or rejections.

Step 3: Pay the Fee and Book an Appointment

After filling out the form, you’ll be directed to book an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). Select a convenient date and time slot. You can pay the applicable fees online via debit card, credit card, or net banking. Save and print the receipt for future reference.

Step 4: Visit the Passport Seva Kendra

On the day of your appointment, arrive at your chosen PSK/POPSK with all original documents and self-attested photocopies. At the center, your documents will be verified, biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) will be taken, and you may be asked a few standard questions. The entire process typically takes 1–2 hours.

Step 5: Police Verification

If you’re applying for a passport for the first time, a police verification will be conducted at your residential address. A police officer will visit your home, verify your documents, and may speak with neighbors to confirm your identity and address. It’s important to be present during this process and provide all required documents.

Step 6: Track Application Status

Once your application is submitted, you can track its progress online. Go to the “Track Application Status” section on the Passport Seva website and enter your file number and date of birth. This tool shows whether your application is under processing, in verification, or dispatched.

Documents Required for Passport Application

You will need the originals and self-attested photocopies of the following documents:

  • Proof of Address: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, utility bills (electricity/water/phone), bank statement, or rent agreement.

  • Proof of Date of Birth: Birth certificate, school leaving certificate, Aadhaar card, or PAN card.

  • Identity Proof: PAN card, Aadhaar card, or Voter ID.

  • For Married Applicants: Marriage certificate (if name has changed post-marriage).

  • For Minors: Parent’s address proof is acceptable.

  • For Lost Passports: FIR or police report must be submitted.

Passport Application Fees

Fees vary based on the type of service (Normal or Tatkal) and the applicant’s age:

  • Adults (Above 18 Years):

    • Normal, 36 pages: ₹1,500

    • Tatkal, 36 pages: ₹3,500

    • Normal, 60 pages: ₹2,000

    • Tatkal, 60 pages: ₹4,000

  • Minors (Below 18 Years):

    • Normal, 36 pages: ₹1,000

    • Tatkal, 36 pages: ₹3,000

A “Fee Calculator” is available on the official website to help you determine the exact amount.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport?

  • With police verification (normal): 25–30 working days

  • Without police verification: Around 7 working days

  • Re-issue without address change: 7 working days

  • Tatkal service: Typically 1–3 days, after verification

Any Indian citizen—by birth, descent, or naturalization—can apply for a passport. The only requirement is that you have not been disqualified by law and that your existing documents are in order.

Final Words

The Indian passport is not just a travel document—it’s a symbol of national identity and access to global opportunities. With digitalization making the process faster and more transparent, there’s no reason to delay your application. Follow the above steps, keep your documents ready, and you’ll be travel-ready in no time.

Author Profile

Kuldeep Singh Chundawat
Kuldeep Singh Chundawat
My name is Kuldeep Singh Chundawat. I am an experienced content writer with several years of expertise in the field. Currently, I contribute to Daily Kiran, creating engaging and informative content across a variety of categories including technology, health, travel, education, and automobiles. My goal is to deliver accurate, insightful, and captivating information through my words to help readers stay informed and empowered.