Passport Apply: If you’ve been running around to offices to get your passport made, you don’t need to do that anymore. The passport application process in India is now completely online. You can apply for a new passport or get your old passport reissued from the comfort of your home. The government’s Passport Seva online portal provides an easy and streamlined way to do this, making everything from appointments to application submission simple.

How to start your online passport application

The passport application process begins with registration on the Passport Seva online portal. First, go to the website and click on the Register option. Here you need to fill in essential information such as your name, date of birth, and email ID. After registration is complete, you will receive a confirmation email. After that, you can log in with your user ID and password. Remember that for security reasons, it is necessary to change your password periodically.

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After logging in, go to the Services section and select the option to Apply for a Fresh Passport or Re-issue of Passport. Then select your Regional Passport Office according to your current address. As soon as you select the RPO, the system automatically displays the details of your nearest Passport Seva Kendra or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra.

What information to fill in the online form

The online application form is filled out in several stages. This includes the type of passport, the applicant’s personal information, family details, address, emergency contact details, and if you are getting your passport reissued, the details of your old passport. After filling in all the details, it is important to carefully review the entire form, as changes are not possible after final submission. As soon as you submit the form, the system issues an application reference number, which is necessary for further processing.

Fee payment and appointment booking

After submitting the form, you have to pay the passport service fee online. An appointment cannot be booked without payment. The portal offers both normal and Tatkaal (expedited) service options. Normal applications allow for a limited number of appointment changes, while Tatkaal service offers fewer such options. After the payment is complete, the system displays the nearest available date at your chosen center. Once the appointment is confirmed, the information is displayed on the screen and also sent via message to your mobile phone.

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Documents Required for a Passport

The documents required for a passport depend on whether you are applying for a new passport or a re-issue. Generally, for proof of date of birth, one document from the following is required: 10th class mark sheet, Aadhaar card, PAN card, or Voter ID. For proof of address, an electricity or water bill, an Aadhaar card, a Voter ID, a bank passbook, or a ration card is accepted.

In addition, an affidavit confirming Indian citizenship and no criminal record is also required. For children under four years of age, a recent passport-size photograph with a white background is necessary. In some specific cases, additional documents or affidavits may be requested.

Things to Keep in Mind on the Appointment Day

It is essential to carry all original documents with you on the day of your appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra. If you need any information or assistance, you can contact the National Call Center at its toll-free number. Overall, applying for a passport through the online process is now easier and more transparent than ever before. From filling out the form at home to booking an appointment, the entire process is digital, saving both time and effort.