How to Apply for an Indian Passport: Step-by-Step Guide

1. Gather Required Documents

You will need the following documents:

• Proof of Identity: Aadhar card, Voter ID, PAN card, or any government-issued ID.
• Proof of Address: Utility bills (electricity, water, or telephone), rent agreement, or any other document that verifies your current address.
• Proof of Date of Birth: Birth certificate, school leaving certificate, or any other official document that states your date of birth.
• Proof of Citizenship: If applicable, documents that prove your citizenship.

2. Register on the Passport Seva Portal

1. Visit the Passport Seva Portal.
2. Click on “New User Registration.”
3. Fill in the registration form and create an account.

3. Fill the Passport Application Form

1. Log in to your account on the Passport Seva Portal.
2. Click on “Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport.”
3. Fill in the application form online. Alternatively, you can download the form, fill it out, and then upload it to the portal.

4. Schedule an Appointment

1. After filling out the application form, click on “View Saved/Submitted Applications.”
2. Select the appropriate ARN (Application Reference Number).
3. Click on “Pay and Schedule Appointment.”
4. Pay the required fee using available payment options (credit/debit card, internet banking, etc.).
5. Schedule an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO).

5. Visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO)

1. On the scheduled date, visit the PSK/RPO with the printed appointment receipt and all original documents along with their photocopies.
2. At the PSK/RPO:
   • Token issuance
   • Document verification
   • Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photograph)
   • Meeting with the Granting Officer

6. Track Your Application Status

You can track the status of your passport application online via the Passport Seva Portal by entering your application reference number (ARN).

7. Receive Your Passport

After processing and police verification (if applicable), you will receive your passport via registered post at the address mentioned in your application.

Tips and Additional Information:

• Ensure all documents are valid and up-to-date.
• The processing time can vary, so apply well in advance if you have travel plans.
• For minors, additional documents such as a birth certificate and parents’ identity proof are required.
• The application fee depends on the type and number of pages of the passport booklet you are applying for (36 or 60 pages).

By following these steps, you can successfully apply for an Indian passport.