Passport Application - Complete Guide

What is a Passport?

A passport is an official government document that certifies the identity and nationality of the holder. It is required for international travel and serves as proof of identity and citizenship.

Types of Passport Applications

• Fresh Passport - First time passport application
• Renewal - Renewing an expired or expiring passport
• Re-issue - Getting a new passport due to loss, damage, or change in details
• Minor Passport - Passport for children below 18 years
• Tatkal - Urgent passport processing (1-3 days)

How to Apply for Passport

Step 1: Gather Required Documents

For Fresh Passport:

• Proof of Date of Birth: Birth certificate, SSLC certificate, or school leaving certificate
• Proof of Address: Aadhaar card, utility bill (electricity/water/gas), bank statement, or ration card
• Proof of Identity: Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID, or driving license
• Passport Size Photos: 2 recent color photos (4.5cm x 3.5cm, white background)
• Annexure A: For minors (if applicable)
• Annexure B: For name change or correction (if applicable)

For Renewal/Re-issue:

• Old passport (original and self-attested copy)
• Proof of address (if changed)
• Proof of identity
• 2 recent passport size photos
• Annexure E (for lost/damaged passport)

Step 2: Apply Online

1. Visit the official Passport Seva portal: https://portal2.passportindia.gov.in
2. Click on "New User Registration" if you don't have an account
3. Create an account with your email ID and mobile number
4. Login with your credentials
5. Click on "Apply for Fresh Passport" or "Re-issue of Passport"
6. Fill in all personal details carefully
7. Enter family details (father's name, mother's name, spouse name if applicable)
8. Enter present and permanent address
9. Upload scanned copies of documents (PDF format, max 1MB each)
10. Review all information before submitting
11. Submit the application form

Step 3: Pay Fees

1. After submitting the form, you'll see the payment page
2. Select payment method (online payment, SBI challan, or other banks)
3. Pay the required fee (see fees section below)
4. Note down the Application Reference Number (ARN)
5. Print the application receipt

Step 4: Book Appointment

1. After payment, click on "Schedule Appointment"
2. Select your preferred Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK)
3. Choose available date and time slot
4. Confirm the appointment
5. Print the appointment receipt
6. Note: For Tatkal, appointments are usually available within 1-3 days

Step 5: Visit PSK/POPSK

1. Visit the PSK/POPSK on your appointment date and time
2. Carry all original documents and their photocopies (front and backside of each document)
3. Carry the appointment receipt and application reference number
4. Complete biometric verification (fingerprints and photo)
5. Submit documents for verification
6. Collect acknowledgment receipt

Step 6: Police Verification

• After PSK visit, police verification will be conducted
• Police officer will call you before visiting your address
• You must be available at home during the police visit time
• Ensure someone is present at the address when police arrive
• Provide original documents if requested
• Verification usually takes 1-2 weeks

Step 7: Receive Passport

1. Track application status online using ARN
2. Once approved, passport will be printed
3. You'll receive SMS/email notification
4. Passport will be delivered via Speed Post to your registered address
5. Sign and collect the passport from postman
6. Verify all details on the passport

Passport Seva Kendras in Tamil Nadu

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