A passport is a legal document issued by the government that verifies a person’s identity and nationality. It often contains identifying details including a photograph, name, date of birth, and a unique identification code. The main purpose of a passport is for international travel, enabling the holder to leave and return to their country. They frequently act as a requirement for getting visas to travel to other countries.
Passports can also be used as acceptable identification in a number of non-travel-related circumstances, including opening a bank account, requesting government services, and more. In general, a passport is a vital means of identity, travel, and rights protection.
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Eligibility Criteria for Passport Application
To have a successful passport application, you should meet these criteria:
- Indian citizens aged 18 and above can apply for a passport.
- Children under 18 can apply for a passport that’s valid for 5 years or until they reach 18.
- Kids between 15 and 18 can obtain a 10-year valid passport. Parents can also choose to get a passport for their children, valid until they reach 18.
Documents Required for Passport Application Online
For a new passport application, the applicant must provide the documents listed below, whether applying online or offline.
| Proof of Address | AADHAAR Card / Utility Bill / Rent Agreement / Parent’s passport copy (first and last page, in case of minors). |
|---|---|
| Proof of Date of Birth | Birth Certificate / AADHAAR Card / Voter ID Card / PAN Card. |
| Non-ECR (Emigration Check Not Required) documentary proof (if applicable). |
How to Apply for a Passport Online in India through Passport Seva
Here’s how to apply for an Indian passport online in a simplified manner:
Step 1: Log into the Passport Seva Portal
- Visit the Passport Seva website and click on “New User Registration” or “Existing User Login”, based on your registration status.
- For new users, complete the registration process by entering your details, or existing users can simply log in with their credentials and complete captcha verification.
- New Users – Select Register to apply at the Passport Office, Enter First and Surname, Date of Birth, Email ID, Login ID, and Password.
Step 2: Choose Your Passport Type
- After registering, proceed to the Passport Seva Existing User Login Page and enter the login ID and password provided during the “New User Registration”.
- After logging in, you’ll need to select “Apply for Fresh Passport/ Re-issue of Passport”.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application
- Using two alternatives, we can apply for a Fresh Passport/Re-issue of a Passport.
| Select “Click here to fill the application form online” in Alternative 1. |
- Choose RPO (Regional Passport Office) by selecting the State and District where you want to submit your application.
- Provide Passport type details
- Select Applying for “Fresh Passport”, Type of Application, and Booklet type as you require and click “Next”.
- Fill in all the necessary Applicant Details, Family Details, Present Residential Address, Emergency Contact, Passport Details, Other Details, Passport Details Verification, and Self-declaration accurately.
- Review the information carefully and click the “Submit Form” button.
| Hint: Once you Submit the form, you are not able to edit the form. |
Step 4: Payment and Appointment Scheduling
- To pay the required fees and schedule an appointment, go to “View Saved/Submitted Applications” on the home page.
- Select “Pay and Schedule Appointment”.
- Make the payment using your chosen online payment method.
- Choose your preferred Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and schedule your appointment.
- Keep a copy of your application receipt or refer to the SMS with your Application Reference Number (ARN).
Step 5: Visit the PSK
- On the appointed date and time, visit the selected PSK.
- Ensure you bring all the original documents required for verification.
These steps will guide you through the process of applying for an Indian passport online in a straightforward manner.
Processing Time After Submitting a Passport Application
Here are different service types and their respective processing times:
- Standard passport application: This takes at least 3 working days or more, depending on the required police verification.
- Tatkaal passport application: Processed within 1 to 3 working days, depending on the necessary police verification.
- Applications with complex cases (e.g., adoption, uncertain documentation): Typically require around 30 working days for processing.
How to Track Passport Application Status
To check your passport application status, follow these simple steps on the official portal:
- Go to the Passport Seva platform’s homepage.
- Click on the “Track Application Status” button.
- On the next page, enter details like your “Application Type,” “File Number,” and “Date of Birth.”
- Click the “Track Status” button to see your application’s current status.
Validity Period of Passport Application
- A standard 36 or 60-page passport remains valid for 10 years from the date it was issued.
- Passports for minors are valid for 5 years or until the child turns 18, whichever comes first.
- Minors aged 15 to 18 can also opt for a full 10-year validity passport.
| FAQs – Passport Apply Online |
1. What is the Application fee for Passport in India?
The fee for a fresh passport or reissue with 36 pages, with a 10-year validity, is Rs. 1,500. For the same, with an additional booklet of 60 pages, the fee is Rs. 2,000.
2. What should I do if I lose my passport?
If your passport is lost or stolen, you should report it to the authorities and your country’s embassy or consulate in the country you are in. You will typically need to apply for a replacement passport.
3. Is an Aadhaar card enough for a passport to apply?
While you can use an Aadhaar Card as an identity proof document, it is important to note that it cannot be the sole document for a passport application.
