How to Apply for a Passport in India: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide

Dreaming of studying abroad, taking that long-awaited international vacation, or even traveling for work? The first and most crucial step toward fulfilling those global ambitions is securing a valid Indian passport. Thanks to digital transformation, applying for one has become a lot more accessible and less time-consuming than ever before.

Gone are the days when getting a passport meant running from one government office to another or standing in long queues. Today, the entire process—from filling out the application to tracking your status—can be done online through the Passport Seva Portal. If you’re new to the process and find it overwhelming, don’t worry. Here’s a comprehensive guide that will walk you through every step of how to apply for a passport in India, along with important information about documents, fees, and eligibility.

Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a Passport in India

1. Register on the Passport Seva Online Portal

Start by visiting the Passport Seva Portal.
Click on “New User Registration” and create an account. You’ll need to provide:

  • Full name (as per official documents)
  • Date of birth
  • Email ID
  • Login ID and password
    Once registered, verify your email to activate the account.

2. Fill Out the Application Form

Login to the portal with your credentials.
Select “Apply for Fresh Passport” or “Reissue of Passport” (as applicable).
Fill in all the necessary personal, address, and identification details carefully.
Review the information before final submission to avoid errors.

3. Pay the Application Fee and Schedule an Appointment

Click on “Pay and Schedule Appointment”.
Select your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
Make payment through internet banking, credit/debit card, or UPI.
Once the payment is successful, choose a convenient date and time for your appointment.
Download the application receipt—it contains your file number which is important for future tracking.

4. Visit the PSK/POPSK

Arrive at your selected center with all original documents and self-attested photocopies.
You will go through document verification, biometric data collection (fingerprints and photo), and possibly an interview.
Ensure you carry your appointment receipt and valid ID proof.

5. Police Verification

Depending on your application type and address, police verification may be required.
A police officer will visit your residence to verify the information.
Keep all supporting documents ready and ensure your availability during this period.

6. Track Your Application Status

After your appointment and police verification, track the status using the “Track Application Status” feature on the Passport Seva Portal.
You’ll need your file number and date of birth to check updates.
Once approved, your passport will be dispatched to your registered address.

What Documents Do You Need to Apply for a Passport?

Here’s a list of mandatory documents, though exact requirements may vary based on your specific case (fresh/reissue, minor/adult, etc.):

1. Proof of Address (any one):

  • Aadhar Card
  • Voter ID
  • Electricity/Water/Telephone Bill (recent)
  • Bank Statement/Passbook
  • Rent Agreement

2. Proof of Date of Birth (any one):

  • Birth Certificate
  • School Leaving Certificate
  • PAN Card
  • Aadhar Card

3. Identity Proof (any one):

  • PAN Card
  • Aadhar Card
  • Voter ID

4. Additional Documents (if applicable):

  • Marriage Certificate (for name change after marriage)
  • For minors: address proof in name of parent/guardian
  • Legal documents in case of adoption, divorce, or missing/lost passport

Ensure all documents are valid, clearly readable, and up to date.

How Much Does a Passport Cost in India?

You can use the Fee Calculator on the Passport Seva Portal to find the exact fee. However, here’s a general idea:

For Adults (18 years and above):

  • ₹1,500 – 36-page passport (Normal scheme)
  • ₹2,000 – 60-page passport (Normal scheme)
  • ₹3,500 – 36-page passport (Tatkal scheme)
  • ₹4,000 – 60-page passport (Tatkal scheme)

For Minors (Below 18 years):

  • ₹1,000 – 36-page passport (Normal scheme)
  • ₹3,000 – 36-page passport (Tatkal scheme)

Note: Tatkal fees are higher due to faster processing timelines.

How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport?

Processing time depends on the type of application and whether police verification is required:

Normal Passport:

  • With police verification: 25–30 working days
  • Without police verification: Around 7 working days

Reissue without Address Change:

  • Typically processed within 7 working days

Tatkal Passport:

  • Dispatched within 1–3 working days post verification

Who Can Apply for an Indian Passport?

You are eligible to apply for an Indian passport if:

  • You are an Indian citizen by birth, descent, registration, or naturalisation
  • You do not have any pending criminal proceedings or arrest warrants
  • You can submit all required documents in original
  • For minors, consent from both parents or legal guardians is mandatory
  • For Tatkal, additional verification may apply