1. What are the types of passport application forms available for India?
In India, there are primarily two types of passport application forms available for individuals applying for a passport:
1. New Passport Application Form: This form is applicable for individuals who are applying for a passport for the first time, whether it’s for a minor, an adult, or a senior citizen. The form requires general personal information, identification details, and supporting documents.
2. Renewal / Reissue of Passport Application Form: This form is used when individuals need to renew or reissue their existing passport. It is important to note that the renewal form is different from the new passport application form. The renewal form requires details of the existing passport, reasons for renewal, updated personal information, and any changes in marital status or address.
It is crucial for applicants to carefully select the appropriate form based on their specific requirements to ensure a smooth application process. Additionally, there are offline and online options available for filling out these forms, depending on the applicant’s preference and convenience.
3. What are the eligibility criteria for filling out a passport application form in India?
In order to be eligible to fill out a passport application form in India, individuals must meet the following criteria:
1. Citizenship: The applicant must be a citizen of India.
2. Age: The minimum age for applying for a passport is 18 years old. Applicants under the age of 18 need to have their parents’ or guardians’ consent.
3. Valid Identification: The applicant must possess valid proof of identity such as Aadhar card, Voter ID, or Pan card.
4. Address Proof: Applicants must also have valid proof of address, which can include utility bills, rental agreements, or bank statements.
5. No Criminal Record: Applicants should not have a criminal record or be involved in any legal disputes.
6. Supporting Documents: Applicants must provide all necessary supporting documents as per the instructions provided in the passport application form.
7. Fee Payment: Payment of the applicable fees for passport processing is also required to complete the application process.
It is important to ensure that all eligibility criteria are met before filling out a passport application form to avoid any delays or rejections in the application process.
4. Can I fill out a passport application form offline in India?
Yes, you can fill out a passport application form offline in India. Here is how you can do it:
Visit the official website of the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and download the passport application form. Print out the form and fill it out completely with accurate and legible information. Make sure to follow all instructions provided on the form and provide all necessary documents as required for the passport application process. After filling out the form, you can submit it in person at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra or Passport Office along with the necessary documents for verification and processing. You may also need to make an appointment for a passport application submission depending on the rules and regulations in your area.
Remember, it is important to double-check all the information provided on the form to avoid any delays or rejections in the passport application process.
5. What are the documents required to submit along with the passport application form in India?
When applying for a passport in India, there are several documents that need to be submitted along with the application form. The necessary documents include:
1. Proof of identity: This can be a copy of your Aadhaar card, voter ID card, driving license, or PAN card.
2. Proof of address: Documents such as a utility bill, ration card, or rental agreement can be submitted as proof of address.
3. Date of birth proof: Birth certificate, school leaving certificate, or any government-issued document containing your date of birth can be provided.
4. Proof of nationality: A copy of your Indian citizenship certificate, if applicable.
5. Passport size photographs: Recent passport size photographs with a white background are required to be submitted along with the application form.
Submitting these documents along with the filled-out passport application form is essential to initiating the passport issuance process in India. Any discrepancies or missing documents can lead to delays or rejection of the application.
6. How can I track the status of my passport application form in India?
To track the status of your passport application form in India, you can follow these steps:
1. Visit the official website of the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or the Passport Seva portal.
2. Click on the ‘Track Application Status’ option.
3. Enter your file number or Application Reference Number (ARN) along with your date of birth.
4. Click on the ‘Track Status’ button to view the current status of your passport application.
5. You can also opt to receive SMS updates by providing your mobile number during the application process.
6. Alternatively, you can contact the National Call Centre at 1800-258-1800 to inquire about the status of your application.
7. Is there a fee to be paid for submitting a passport application form in India?
Yes, there is a fee to be paid for submitting a passport application form in India. The fee amount varies depending on the type of passport applied for (normal or tatkaal), the number of pages, and the applicant’s age. Additionally, there are also additional charges for any optional services like SMS services, passport booklets, etc. The fee for a standard 36-page passport for adults is Rs. 1,500 for fresh or reissue and Rs. 3,000 for a tatkaal application. For minors (below 18 years) the fee is slightly lower. It is important to note that the fee structure is subject to change, so it is recommended to check the official passport website or consult with the regional passport office for the most up-to-date information.
8. Can I make corrections to a submitted passport application form in India?
Yes, corrections can be made to a submitted passport application form in India through the following process:
1. Online Application: If you have submitted your passport application form online, you can log in to the Passport Seva website using your login credentials and make corrections to the form before scheduling an appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra.
2. Offline Application: If you have submitted a physical passport application form at a Passport Seva Kendra or regional passport office, you can request the officials there to allow corrections to be made. They may provide you with a new form to fill out with the necessary corrections.
It is important to note that any corrections made to the passport application form should be done accurately and honestly to avoid any delays or issues in the processing of your passport application.
9. How long does it usually take to process a passport application form in India?
The processing time for a passport application form in India can vary depending on the type of application and the individual circumstances. However, in general, the time it takes to process a passport application in India is typically around 30 to 45 days from the date of submission of the application. It is important to note that this timeframe can fluctuate based on factors such as the volume of applications received, the completeness of the documentation provided, and any additional verifications required. Additionally, applicants can opt for expedited processing services for an additional fee, which can significantly reduce the processing time to as little as 1-2 weeks. It is recommended to check the official website of the Indian Passport Seva for the most up-to-date information on processing times and any recent changes in procedures.
10. What is the process for scheduling an appointment to submit a passport application form in India?
To schedule an appointment to submit a passport application form in India, you can follow these steps:
1. Visit the official website of the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Passport Seva website.
2. Register an account or log in if you already have one.
3. Click on the “Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport” link.
4. Fill in the required details in the online passport application form.
5. Choose a convenient Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) for submitting your application.
6. Select a date and time slot for your appointment based on the availability displayed on the website.
7. Pay the required fee for your passport application.
8. Print out the application receipt and appointment confirmation.
9. Attend the appointment at the selected PSK/POPSK with all the necessary documents for verification.
By following these steps, you can easily schedule an appointment to submit your passport application form in India.
11. Are there any additional documents required for minors to submit a passport application form in India?
Yes, there are additional documents required for minors when submitting a passport application form in India. These additional documents include:
1. Birth Certificate: A copy of the minor’s birth certificate needs to be submitted along with the application form. This is essential to verify the minor’s date and place of birth.
2. Proof of Address: Documents such as Aadhaar card, ration card, or school certificate containing the address of the minor’s parents or guardian need to be provided.
3. Annexure ‘D’: This is a declaration form that needs to be signed by both parents stating their consent for the minor to obtain a passport. If one parent is not available to sign, additional documents may be required.
4. Passport-sized Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs of the minor need to be submitted with the application form.
5. Identity Proof of Parents: Copies of the parents’ identification documents such as Aadhaar card, PAN card, or voter ID may be required to establish their identity.
6. Passport Copies of Parents: In some cases, copies of the parents’ passports may also be needed to verify their citizenship and identity.
These additional documents are necessary to ensure the minor’s details are accurate and to prevent any discrepancies in the passport application process.
12. What are the photo specifications for attaching to a passport application form in India?
In India, the photo specifications for attaching to a passport application form are as follows:
1. The photo must be in color and printed on high-quality paper.
2. The dimensions of the photo should be 35mm x 45mm.
3. The photo should have a plain white background with no shadows.
4. The applicant’s face should cover about 70-80% of the photo area.
5. The applicant should have a neutral expression with eyes open and looking directly at the camera.
6. Both ears should be visible in the photo.
7. The photo should be free from any reflections or glares on glasses, if worn.
8. Head coverings are allowed for religious or medical reasons, as long as they do not obscure any facial features.
9. The photo should be recent, typically taken within the last six months.
10. The photo should be printed in matt or semi-matt finish.
11. It is recommended to use a professional photographer to ensure the photo meets all specifications.
12. The applicant should also sign the photo on the front side before attaching it to the passport application form.
13. Can I submit a passport application form for a Tatkal (expedited) passport in India?
Yes, you can submit a passport application form for a Tatkal passport in India. The Tatkal scheme is an expedited service offered by the Indian government for those who require their passport urgently. To apply for a Tatkal passport, you need to fill out the passport application form online through the official website of the Passport Seva portal or in person at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Passport Office. Here are some key points to keep in mind when applying for a Tatkal passport:
1. Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria for the Tatkal scheme, which may include specific reasons such as urgent travel or emergency situations.
2. Provide all the necessary documents and fees required for Tatkal passport issuance, which may differ from regular passport applications.
3. Book an appointment at the PSK or Passport Office for the submission of your Tatkal passport application form and attend the appointment with all the required documents.
4. The Tatkal passport application process is designed to expedite the issuance of passports, but it is subject to verification and approval by the passport authorities.
5. Be prepared to pay additional fees for the Tatkal service, in addition to the regular passport application fees.
By following the guidelines and procedures set by the Passport Seva portal, you can successfully submit a passport application form for a Tatkal (expedited) passport in India.
14. Is it possible to renew a passport using the same application form in India?
In India, passport renewal does not require filling out a new application form. The process involves submitting the application through the Passport Seva Online Portal or physically at a Passport Seva Kendra or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra. Here are the steps to renew a passport using the same application form:
1. Visit the Passport Seva Online Portal and register for an account.
2. Fill out the passport renewal form online with accurate details.
3. Schedule an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra.
4. Gather the required documents, such as old passport, proof of address, proof of identity, and passport-sized photographs.
5. Attend the appointment for document verification and biometric data collection.
6. Pay the applicable fees for passport renewal.
7. Track the status of your passport renewal application online.
By following these steps and submitting the necessary documents, you can renew your passport using the same application form in India. Remember to check the official Passport Seva website for the most up-to-date information and guidelines regarding passport renewal.
15. What are the different sections of the passport application form in India?
In India, the passport application form consists of several important sections that need to be filled out accurately in order to successfully apply for a passport. The main sections of the passport application form in India include:
1. Personal Details: This section requires the applicant to provide information such as their name, date of birth, place of birth, gender, marital status, and so on.
2. Present Address Details: Applicants need to provide their current address, including house number, street name, locality, city, state, and PIN code.
3. Permanent Address Details: This section requires the applicant to provide their permanent address details, which may differ from their present address.
4. Family Details: Here, the applicant needs to provide information about their family members, including their parents’ names, nationality, and so on.
5. References: Applicants need to provide details of two references who have known them for at least two years. These references should not be family members.
6. Declaration: The last section of the form includes a declaration that the information provided is true and correct to the best of the applicant’s knowledge.
It is crucial to fill out all sections of the passport application form accurately and honestly to avoid any delays or complications in the passport application process.
16. Can I submit a passport application form in a regional passport office in India?
Yes, you can submit a passport application form at a regional passport office in India. The Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) are the primary facilities for submitting passport applications. However, there are certain Regional Passport Offices (RPOs) across India where you can also submit your application form. Here’s what you need to do to submit the form at a regional passport office:
Visit the official website of Passport Seva, and under the ‘Passport Office’ tab, select the regional passport office where you wish to submit your application.
Ensure you fill out the application form accurately either online or offline, as per your convenience.
After completing the form, schedule an appointment on the Passport Seva website or through the mPassport Seva app for submitting the form at the chosen regional passport office.
Carry all the required documents and fees along with your application form on the scheduled appointment date.
Upon verification and completion of the process at the regional passport office, your application will proceed for further processing.
Remember to check the specific requirements and guidelines of the respective regional passport office where you plan to submit your application form.
17. What are the guidelines for filling out personal information in a passport application form for India?
When filling out personal information in a passport application form for India, it is important to follow the guidelines provided to ensure accuracy and avoid delays in processing. Here are some key points to consider:
1. Full Name: Provide your full name as it appears in your official documents, including any given names or middle names.
2. Date of Birth: Enter your date of birth in the format specified on the form (dd/mm/yyyy).
3. Place of Birth: Include the city and state/country where you were born.
4. Gender: Indicate your gender as Male, Female, or Other, as applicable.
5. Marital Status: Select your current marital status from the options provided.
6. Visible Identification Marks: Describe any distinguishing marks or features on your body.
7. Occupation: State your current occupation or profession.
8. Educational Qualifications: Mention your highest level of education completed.
9. Address: Provide your current residential address with details such as street, city, state, and PIN code.
10. Contact Information: Include your mobile number and email address for communication purposes.
11. Emergency Contact Details: Furnish the contact details of a person to be notified in case of an emergency.
12. References: Provide details of two references who are not immediate family members.
It is essential to fill out the form accurately, truthfully, and legibly to avoid any discrepancies. Double-check all information before submitting the form to ensure it is complete and correct.
18. How can I pay the passport application fee for submitting the form in India?
In India, there are multiple convenient methods available to pay the passport application fee when submitting the form. Here are some commonly used options:
1. Online Payment: You can make the payment online using credit or debit cards, internet banking, or through mobile wallets on the official website of the Passport Seva portal.
2. Challan Payment: Generate a challan online and make the payment in cash at designated banks.
3. Demand Draft: You can also opt to pay the fee by obtaining a demand draft in favor of “The Passport Officer” from any nationalized bank.
4. Fee Collection Centers: Visit a designated Passport Seva Kendra or Passport Office and pay the fee in cash.
5. Pay at Post Office: Some post offices also accept passport application fees, where you can pay in cash or using POS machines.
These various options provide flexibility for applicants to choose the most convenient payment method while submitting their passport application form.
19. Are there any specific requirements for submitting a passport application form for diplomatic or official passports in India?
Yes, there are specific requirements for submitting a passport application form for diplomatic or official passports in India. Some key points to note include:
1. Different application form: Applicants for diplomatic or official passports need to fill out a different application form than regular passport applicants. This specialized form is specifically designed for those applying for diplomatic or official passports.
2. Letter of Authorization: In addition to the regular documents required for a passport application, candidates must also submit a Letter of Authorization from their respective ministry or department, stating the necessity for the diplomatic or official passport.
3. Government ID proof: Applicants must provide a government-issued identification proof along with the application form to validate their status as a diplomatic or official personnel.
4. No fee for processing: Diplomatic or official passport applicants are exempted from paying the standard passport application fee. However, there may be administrative charges or fees associated with the issuance process.
5. Verification process: The application for diplomatic or official passports undergoes a rigorous verification process to ensure the authenticity of the applicant’s status and the necessity for the specialized passport.
By fulfilling these specific requirements and following the designated procedures, individuals can apply for diplomatic or official passports in India effectively.
20. What is the process for retrieving a lost or damaged passport application form in India?
If you lose or damage your passport application form in India, you can retrieve it by following these steps:
1. Visit the official website of the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or the official Passport Seva app to access the online portal where you can download a new application form.
2. If you had filled out a physical form, you can obtain a new one by visiting the nearest Passport Seva Kendra or Passport Office.
3. In case you had partially completed the form before losing it, you may need to provide the details you remember to ensure consistency in the application process.
4. It is important to fill out the new form accurately and truthfully to avoid any delays or complications in the passport application process.
By following these steps, you can easily retrieve a lost or damaged passport application form in India and continue with your application process smoothly.