The Ministry of External Affairs has today published a detailed step-by-step guide for Indian citizens seeking new passports or renewal of existing passports. The detailed guide is aimed at making the process easier and minimizing application errors.
Highlights of the New Guide...
The Ministry of External Affairs has today published a detailed step-by-step guide for Indian citizens seeking new passports or renewal of existing passports. The detailed guide is aimed at making the process easier and minimizing application errors.
Highlights of the New Guide
1. Online Registration Process
* Candidates need to go to the official Passport Seva Portal (passportindia.gov.in)
* Register a user account with valid email ID and mobile number
* Confirm the account via OTP on both email and mobile
2. Application Form Filling
* Select from new passport, re-issue, or tatkal service
* Enter personal details, family details, and educational qualifications
* Upload recent passport-size photograph to meet defined parameters
* Thumb impression or digital signature is a requirement
3. Document Requirements
* Document proof of Identity: Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, or Voter ID
* Document proof of Address: Utility bill, bank statements (less than 3 months old)
* Proof of Date of Birth: Birth certificate, 10th class marksheet
* For Minors: Parents' passports, school leaving certificate
* Other documents in special cases (name change, adoption, etc.)
4. Fee Payment
* Standard 36-page passport: ₹1,500
* Standard 60-page passport: ₹2,000
* Tatkal service: Extra ₹2,000
5. Appointment Scheduling
* Online payment via credit/debit cards, net banking, or UPI
* Select appointment slot at nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK)
6. Document Submission and Biometrics
* Visit the PSK/POPSK on the scheduled date and time
* Submit original documents for verification
* Biometric data capture: Fingerprints and photograph
* Short interview with passport officer
7. Police Verification Process
* Post-application verification for fresh applicants
* Pre-application verification for tatkal applications
* Police to verify within 21 days
* Applicants can check verification status online
8. Processing Times
* Normal applications: 30-45 working days
* Tatkal applications: 1-3 working days (dependent on successful police verification)
9. Additional Features
* Mobile App: A new mobile app for monitoring application status and getting alerts
* Helpline: 24x7 toll-free helpline (1800-258-1800) for support and queries
* Video Tutorials: Instructional videos available on the Passport Seva YouTube channel
Quote from External Affairs Minister
"This detailed manual is a part of our continued initiative to make passport services more accessible and convenient for all Indian citizens. We are looking to simplify the process, cut down on processing times, and make every step transparent."
The new manual is offered in 12 Indian languages and can be downloaded from the official Passport Seva portal. The Ministry also made announcements to organize awareness workshops in rural regions to help citizens with the application process.
Source: Press Information Bureau, Government of India, March 4, 2025