Indian Passport Online in 2024: Applying for an Indian passport online is now easier than ever. With just a computer and internet connection, you can submit your passport application fully digitally in just a few simple steps. In this 2024 guide, you will learn the latest online application process to get your Indian passport conveniently from home.
First, you need to navigate to the Government of India Passport Seva portal for starting your passport application journey. Next, you have to register yourself by creating a login ID and password. Then, fill in the required details in the application form accurately. Further, upload the necessary supporting documents. Subsequently, schedule an appointment and pay the fees. Finally, visit your designated Passport Seva Kendra to complete the verification formalities.
By following this straightforward online application method, getting an Indian passport takes only 1-2 weeks now. So apply for your passport digitally and receive it rapidly.
Eligibility Criteria to Apply for an Indian Passport
Applying for a passport in India requires meeting certain eligibility conditions pertaining to age, residency status and criminal records. This guide will cover the key requirements to ensure your passport application does not get rejected.
Age and Residency Requirements
To be eligible for an Indian passport, you need to be a resident of India as per guidelines of the Passports Act 1967. Generally, Indian citizens who have stayed in the country for at least 182 days in the preceding 12 months are considered residents.
Additionally, your age should be above 18 years if applying for a 10-year passport. Minors aged between 15 and 18 years can apply for a 5-year passport with various extra requirements. Children below 15 years can be included in their parent’s passport.
Criminal Records and Legal Constraints
Having a criminal case against you can make you ineligible for an Indian passport. Specifically, you cannot apply if convicted in a criminal case resulting in imprisonment for 2 or more years. Also, judicial orders restraining foreign travel due to legal cases will disqualify your application.
However, arrests or minor convictions with sentences less than 2 years or under appeals do not directly affect your application. But additional verification procedures may be initiated in such scenarios.
Submitting Supporting Application Documents
When applying online, you have to submit supporting documents correctly proving your age, address and legal eligibility. Missions abroad may initiate extra verification steps if your passport application documents have any discrepancies or incomplete information.
Therefore, carefully go through the latest eligibility criteria before applying for your Indian passport online or offline. Ensure you meet the residency requirements, age criteria and have no legal constraints restricting your foreign travel. Also, provide accurate supporting documents to avoid passport delays or rejection.
How to Apply for an Indian Passport: A Step-by-Step Guide
Applying for an Indian passport is now faster and more convenient than ever through the new online application facility. Follow this step-by-step guide to complete your passport application smoothly.
Step 1: Register on the Passport Seva Portal
First, you need to visit the Government of India’s Passport Seva portal for registering an account. Click on the “Register Now” link and create a login ID and password. Ensure all your personal details entered are accurate. After submitting registration, check your email for the activation link.
Step 2: Fill in the Passport Application Form
After logging into your Passport Seva account, click on “Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport” link. Next, choose the applicable application type, enter details as per your documents and save. Now you can preview your form, edit if required or submit.
Step 3: Schedule Appointment and Upload Documents
Once the application is submitted, you have to pick an appointment slot at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Subsequently, log back into Passport Seva portal and upload documents like identity proof, date of birth certificate, address proof, etc. as applicable.
Step 4: Pay Service Fees Online
After scheduling the appointment and uploading papers, you have to pay the passport fees and applicable service charges online on the portal. Fees for a new 36-pages 10-year validity passport is Rs 1500 for general category and Rs 2000 for tatkaal.
Step 5: Attend Appointment at Passport Office
On the day of your appointment, visit your chosen PSK 30 minutes before the allotted time. Carry the original documents, payment receipt, application printout and acknowledgement letter. Attend the token and verification counters for completing the application submission process.
Applying online for an Indian passport is simpler than ever. However, many applicants still have doubts regarding the new digital application process. This guide provides useful tips and resolves frequently asked questions for hassle-free passport application.
Tips for Error-free Passport Application
Follow these tips for avoiding mistakes and filling the passport application form accurately:
- Provide the same name and date of birth details as your supporting documents
- Double-check spellings in the passport application
- List blood relatives correctly in annexures
- Upload scanned copies of documents in PDF format only
Additionally, book appointment slots or tracks application status online through the Passport Seva website only. Avoid third-party agents and touts to prevent frauds.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are answers to some common queries regarding Indian passport application:
How to apply for a passport for children below 18 years?
For minors aged between 15 and 18 years, details of both parents are mandatory. Children below 15 years can be included in mother’s/father’s passport.
What is the current fees for an Indian passport?
Normal 36 pages 10-year passport fee is Rs 1500 and Rs 2000 for tatkaal. Additional Rs 200 service charge applies for online applications.
How long is passport verification and police report valid?
Passport verification done in last 1 year is still valid. Same for police reports issued within previous 6 months.
Following the guidelines and tips above will lead to faster approval of your Indian passport application within 7-10 working days. Still facing any issues? Contact the Passport Seva Chatbot or call helpline for instant resolutions.