Apply for passport online: A step-by-step guide, documents required and more

Passport application process

Applying for a passport in India has become a simplified process with the Passport Seva Online Portal. Citizens can apply for a fresh passport or reissue an existing one by following a structured process, ensuring timely appointments and faster processing.

The first step is to register on the Passport Seva Online Portal by clicking on the “Register” option. Applicants need to provide details such as name, date of birth, and email ID. Once the registration is confirmed via email, users can log in with their credentials. It is important to note that the login password must be reset every three months.

After logging in, applicants should navigate to the Services section and select “Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport.” At this stage, choosing the Regional Passport Office (RPO) corresponding to the current place of residence is essential. Based on the selected RPO, the system will display the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).

The online application form requires details in the following order:

• Passport type

• Applicant details

• Family details

• Address information

• Emergency contact

• Previous passport information (for reissue)

• Additional details

• Preview and verification

Once completed, the system generates an Application Reference Number (ARN). Applicants should carefully check all information before final submission since changes cannot be made later.

After submitting the application, applicants must pay the applicable passport service fee. Appointments at PSKs or POPSKs can only be booked after payment. The portal provides options for Normal and Tatkaal quotas, with Tatkaal subject to eligibility. Applicants can reschedule appointments up to three times for Normal and once for Tatkaal applications.

The system then displays the earliest available appointment date at the chosen center. On successful payment, an appointment confirmation screen is generated, and applicants also receive an SMS with the details.

• Proof of identity (such as Aadhaar, voter ID, or PAN card)

• Proof of address (such as utility bills, bank statement, or rent agreement)

• Proof of date of birth (birth certificate, school leaving certificate, or Aadhaar with DOB)

For minors under four years, a recent passport-sized photograph with a white background is required. Additional affidavits or annexures may be requested in special cases, such as lost passports or single-parent applications.

Applicants must carry originals of all documents at the time of appointment for verification. Services are provided at the discretion of the Passport Officer at the respective PSK. For any assistance, the National Call Center can be reached at 1800-258-1800.

With this digital process, applying for a passport is now more streamlined, allowing applicants to manage the entire workflow — from form submission to appointment booking — online.