Indian Passport Guide – How to Apply, Renew & Travel Easily

Got a trip coming up or need a fresh passport for work? Getting an Indian passport is not as hard as it looks. In this guide you’ll see who can apply, what you need to bring, how to fill the online form, and a few tips to speed things up.

Eligibility and Required Documents

Anyone who is an Indian citizen can apply for a passport. That includes adults, minors, and people living abroad. The main documents you’ll need are:

• Proof of identity – a government‑issued ID like an Aadhaar card or voter ID.
• Proof of address – a recent utility bill, rent agreement, or bank statement.
• Birth certificate or school leaving certificate for minors.
• Recent passport‑size colour photo (white background, no glasses).

If you already have a passport and want to renew, you’ll also need the old one. For a lost passport, you’ll need a police report and an affidavit.

Step‑by‑Step Application Process

1. Register online at passportindia.gov.in. Create an account with your email and mobile number.

2. Fill the application form. Choose the right passport type – normal (36 pages) or jumbo (60 pages) – and the service (regular or tatkal).

3. Upload documents. Scan or take clear photos of the ID, address proof, and your picture. The system will tell you if anything is missing.

4. Pay the fees. A normal passport costs around ₹1,500, while the tatkal (fast‑track) option is about ₹3,500. Payment can be done online via credit card, net banking, or UPI.

5. Schedule an appointment. Choose a nearby Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and book a slot. Walk‑in is possible, but an appointment saves time.

6. Visit the PSK. Bring originals of all documents, the printed application receipt, and the payment receipt. You’ll get your biometrics taken and a quick interview.

7. Track your application. Use the online tracker to see when your passport is ready. It’s usually delivered by post in 7‑10 days for regular service, faster for tatkal.

Pro tip: Double‑check the spelling of your name and address before you submit. A small typo can delay the whole process.

If you’re applying from abroad, the Indian embassy or consulate handles the same steps. The fee is a bit higher, and you’ll need a local address proof.

Remember, the Indian passport is valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors. You can apply for a new one any time before it expires – no need to wait for the last month.

Got questions about passport photos, fees, or the tatkal service? Drop a comment below and we’ll help you out. Safe travels!