Apply Indian passport steps by steps

Applying for an Indian passport involves several steps and procedures. Here is a detailed guide on how to apply for an Indian passport, step by step:

Determine Eligibility: Before applying for an Indian passport, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria. You must be an Indian citizen and fulfill the age requirements specified by the government.
Gather Required Documents: Collect all the necessary documents for passport application. This typically includes proof of identity (such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, or voter ID), proof of address (such as utility bills or rental agreement), birth certificate, and any other relevant documents like marriage certificate or divorce decree.
Online Registration: Visit the official website of the Passport Seva portal (www.passportindia.gov.in) and create an account. Fill in the required details and choose the type of passport you wish to apply for (normal or tatkal).
Fill the Application Form: After creating an account, log in and fill in the passport application form online. Provide accurate personal details, including your name, date of birth, address, and occupation. Double-check the information before submitting the form.
Pay the Fee: Pay the required fee for passport processing online through the available payment options. The fee varies depending on the type of passport and processing time chosen.
Schedule an Appointment: Once the fee is paid, schedule an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). Choose a convenient date and time slot for your appointment.
Print Application Receipt: After scheduling the appointment, download and print the application receipt. This receipt contains your appointment details and application reference number.
Visit Passport Seva Kendra: On the scheduled date, visit the selected Passport Seva Kendra or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra. Carry all the original documents along with their photocopies.
Biometrics and Document Verification: At the PSK, submit your application receipt and supporting documents. Your biometric information (photograph, fingerprints, and signature) will be captured. The officer will verify your documents, so ensure they are valid and up to date.
Passport Application Review: After document verification, your application will undergo review by the passport officer. This step ensures that all necessary information is accurate and complete.
Police Verification: Depending on your application category, a police verification process may be initiated. You may be required to visit your local police station for verification, or the police may visit your residence for verification.
Passport Printing and Dispatch: Once all the necessary verifications are complete, your passport will be printed and dispatched to your registered address. You can track the status of your application online.
Collect Your Passport: Once your passport is ready, it will be delivered to your registered address through a designated courier service. Ensure you collect it in person and sign for it upon delivery.

Renewing an Indian passport is a straightforward process. Here are the steps to renew your Indian passport:

Determine Eligibility: Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for passport renewal. You must have an existing Indian passport that is expiring or has already expired within the last three years.
Gather Required Documents: Collect the necessary documents for passport renewal. These typically include the expired passport, proof of address, proof of identity, and any other relevant documents such as marriage certificate or divorce decree, if applicable.
Online Registration: Visit the official website of the Passport Seva portal (www.passportindia.gov.in) and create an account. If you already have an account, log in using your credentials.
Fill the Application Form: After logging in, select the “Reissue of Passport” option and fill in the application form with the required details. Provide accurate personal information, including your name, date of birth, address, and occupation. Verify the information before submitting the form.
Pay the Fee: Pay the applicable fee for passport renewal through the available online payment options. The fee varies depending on the type of passport and processing time chosen.
Schedule an Appointment: Once the fee is paid, schedule an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). Select a convenient date and time slot for your appointment.
Print Application Receipt: After scheduling the appointment, download and print the application receipt. This receipt contains your appointment details and application reference number.
Visit Passport Seva Kendra: On the scheduled appointment date, visit the selected Passport Seva Kendra or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra. Carry all the required original documents along with their photocopies.
Biometrics and Document Verification: At the PSK, submit your application receipt and supporting documents. Your biometric information (photograph, fingerprints, and signature) will be captured again. The officer will verify your documents to ensure their validity.
Passport Application Review: After document verification, your application will undergo a review by the passport officer. This step ensures that all necessary information is accurate and complete.
Police Verification: In most cases, police verification is not required for passport renewal. However, if deemed necessary, the passport office may initiate a police verification process.
Passport Printing and Dispatch: Once all verifications are complete, your passport will be printed and dispatched to your registered address. You can track the status of your application online.
Collect Your Passport: Once your renewed passport is ready, it will be delivered to your registered address through a designated courier service. Ensure that you collect it in person and sign for it upon delivery.

The size specifications for Indian passport size photos are as follows:

Dimensions: The dimensions of the passport size photo should be 2 inches x 2 inches (51 mm x 51 mm).
Background: The background of the photo should be plain white or off-white.
Facial Expression: The applicant’s facial expression should be neutral, with both eyes open and looking directly at the camera.
Head Position: The head should be centered within the frame, and the face should occupy at least 70-80% of the photo.
Attire: The applicant should wear normal attire without any accessories that may cover the face.
Photo Quality: The photo should be printed on high-quality photo paper with a matte or glossy finish.
Color and Lighting: The photo should be in color, with good contrast and even lighting. Avoid shadows or glares on the face.
Print Specifications: The photo should have a high resolution and should be printed with a professional-grade printer. The print quality should be clear and sharp.

To apply for an Indian passport, you will need to provide several documents. The exact list of required documents may vary depending on the type of passport (fresh, renewal, or reissue) and your specific circumstances. Here is a general list of documents commonly required for an Indian passport application:

Proof of Identity:

- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Voter ID Card
- Driving License
- Ration Card with photograph
- Government-issued photo ID cards
Proof of Address:
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID Card
- Ration Card
- Utility bills (electricity, water, telephone, gas, etc.)
- Rental agreement or lease agreement
- Bank passbook with address
Proof of Date of Birth:
- Birth Certificate issued by a municipal authority or registrar of births
- School leaving certificate or secondary school leaving certificate
- Certificate of Date of Birth issued by a recognized educational institution
- Bonafide certificate from a school or college
Proof of Nationality:
- Birth Certificate (if born in India)
- Citizenship Certificate
- Naturalization Certificate
- Registration Certificate
Marriage Certificate (if applicable):
- For married applicants, a marriage certificate may be required to establish the spouse’s name and marital status.
Divorce Decree or Death Certificate (if applicable):
- In case of divorce or spouse’s death, relevant documents may be required to establish the change in marital status.
Annexure E or Annexure F (for minors):
- In the case of a minor applicant (below 18 years of age), Annexure E or Annexure F, as applicable, is required. These are affidavits to be filled by the parents or legal guardians.
Passport Size Photos:
- Recent passport-size photographs meeting the specified size and background requirements.