News Desk: Applying for an Indian passport has become more convenient with the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) offering an online application system through the Passport Seva portal. Indian citizens planning to travel abroad can apply for a fresh passport, renew an existing one through reissue, or request a replacement, depending on their circumstances.
Here is a step-by-step guide to the application process, required documents, fees and police verification.
Who Can Apply for an Indian Passport?
Indian citizens who meet the requirements under the Citizenship Act, 1955, can apply for a passport, subject to applicable rules and legal restrictions. Eligibility and documentation requirements may vary depending on the applicant's age, citizenship status and the type of service requested.
First-time applicants must apply for a fresh passport, while existing passport holders may need to apply for reissue if their passport expires, their personal details change, or the document is damaged or lost.
Documents Required for a Passport
The documents required depend on the applicant's circumstances and the category of application. Commonly required documents include:
* Proof of residential address.
* Proof of date of birth, where applicable.
* Documents supporting identity and other personal details, if required.
* An existing passport for reissue applications.
* Additional documents specified for particular application categories.
Applicants should check the official document advisory on the Passport Seva website before attending their appointment. Original documents must be carried for verification, along with any copies requested by the authorities.
How to Apply Online
Applicants can complete the initial process through the official Passport Seva portal at [https://www.passportindia.gov.in/](https://www.passportindia.gov.in/?utm_source=chatgpt.com).
The application process involves the following steps:
* Register as a new user on the Passport Seva website.
* Log in and select the fresh passport or reissue option.
* Fill in the application form with accurate personal and residential details.
* Review the information before submitting the form.
* Pay the applicable passport fee online.
* Schedule an appointment at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
After booking, applicants should retain their application reference number and appointment confirmation for future use.
### How Much Does an Indian Passport Cost?
Passport fees vary according to the type of application, booklet size, validity and processing category. Applicants opting for the Tatkaal service may have to pay additional charges, subject to eligibility.
As passport fees were revised from July 1, 2026, applicants should check the latest rates using the official fee calculator on the Passport Seva portal before making payment.
### Police Verification and Application Status
After the appointment, the application undergoes the necessary checks. Police verification may be required to confirm the applicant's identity and residential address. The procedure and timeline depend on the application category and the assessment of the passport authorities.
Applicants can track their application status through the Passport Seva website by entering the required reference details. They should respond promptly to requests for additional documents or verification.
Submitting an application does not guarantee immediate issuance. Applicants should follow the official instructions until the process is complete and the passport is issued.
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