Applying for an Indian passport has become easier than ever with the fully digital system introduced through the Passport Seva Portal. This comprehensive guide explains how to apply for a passport online, covering every step in detail — from account creation to booking an appointment, uploading documents, and tracking your application. Follow this detailed tutorial to ensure your passport application is completed smoothly, accurately, and without delays.
What Is the Passport Seva Online Application System?
The Passport Seva Portal (PSP) is the official online platform by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) that allows Indian citizens to apply for new passports, renewals, re-issue, and updates. The portal eliminates long queues, provides faster processing, and ensures transparency.
You can apply online through the official portal here: https://www.passportindia.gov.in/psp
Step-by-Step Guide: How to Apply for Passport Online in India
1. Create an Account on the Passport Seva Portal
To begin, visit the official website and create a user account.
Steps:
Go to Passport Seva Portal
Click “New User Registration”
Select the passport office nearest to your state
Enter your name, birth date, email address, and login ID
Set a strong password and complete the captcha
Verify your account using the verification link received in your email
Your account is now active, and you can log in anytime using your username and password.
2. Log In and Select Fresh Passport or Renewal
Once logged in:
Click “Applicant Home”
Select “Apply for Fresh Passport / Re-issue Passport”
Choose the correct option:
Fresh Passport – If applying for the first time
Re-issue Passport – If renewing an expired passport, updating details, lost passport, or damaged passport
3. Fill the Application Form Online
You can fill the form using two methods:
Fill Online Form
Download PDF Form, Fill, and Upload
Recommended: Fill Online Form
The online form asks for detailed information such as:
Applicant’s personal details
Family information
Address (current & permanent)
Emergency contact
Passport history
Other identification details
Important Tips:
Ensure your name and date of birth match your Aadhaar or official documents
Avoid spelling mistakes
Review all details before submitting
4. Upload Required Documents
To complete your passport application, you must upload supporting documents.
Common Required Documents:
Aadhaar Card
Birth Certificate (for minors or first-time applicants)
PAN Card (optional but recommended)
Voter ID / Driving License
Proof of Address (electricity bill, rent agreement, bank passbook, etc.)
Old Passport (if applying for renewal)
Document Tips:
Upload documents in PDF format
Ensure clarity and visibility
Match details across all documents
5. Pay the Passport Fee Online
After completing the form, proceed to the payment section.
Modes of Payment:
Debit Card
Credit Card
Net Banking
UPI
SBI Challan (offline option)
Passport Fee Structure (Approx):
Normal Passport (36 pages): ₹1,500
Tatkal Passport: ₹3,500
Re-issue/Renewal: ₹1,500
Payments are secure and processed instantly.
6. Schedule an Appointment at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)
After payment:
Go to “Schedule Appointment”
Choose the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) / Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK)
Select preferred date and time
Confirm appointment
You will receive an Appointment Confirmation Slip, which must be carried to PSK.
7. Visit Passport Seva Kendra for Verification
On your appointment day:
Carry These Documents:
Appointment slip
Original documents
Photocopies of all documents
Old passport (if re-issuing)
PSK Procedure Includes:
Document verification
Biometrics (fingerprint scanning)
Photograph capturing
Officer interview (quick review of documents)
If everything is in order, your application is forwarded for Police Verification.
8. Police Verification Process
This is a mandatory step for most passport applications.
What Happens During Police Verification:
A police officer visits your home
They check address proof and identity documents
They may speak to neighbors for confirmation
You sign verification documents
Tips:
Ensure your address is correct
Keep original documents ready
Maintain contact with the local police station for faster processing
9. Track Your Passport Application Online
You can monitor your passport status under:
“Track Application Status”
Enter:
File Number
Date of Birth
The portal updates your status after each stage of processing.
10. Passport Delivery
Once approved, the passport is:
Printed
Dispatched by Speed Post
Delivered to your registered address
You can track delivery through the India Post tracking ID provided in the portal.
Types of Passports You Can Apply For
India offers several passport types depending on your requirement.
1. Normal Passport
Issued for regular travel, valid for 10 years.
2. Tatkal Passport
Faster processing for urgent travel, extra fees apply.
3. Diplomatic Passport
For government officials and diplomats.
4. Official Passport
Issued for government employees traveling officially.
Common Reasons Passport Applications Get Rejected
To avoid delays, ensure the following:
Mismatch in name or date of birth
Incorrect address proof
Spelling mistakes in form
Incomplete documents
Pending criminal cases
Non-availability during police verification
Expert Tips for Fast Passport Approval
To ensure smooth and fast processing:
Use Aadhaar as primary proof
Keep address documents updated
Choose Tatkal for urgent needs
Be available for police verification
Double-check all entries before submission
Final Thoughts
Applying for a passport online is simple, efficient, and user-friendly when done correctly. By following this detailed step-by-step guide, you can complete your passport application process without errors, delays, or confusion. Whether you're applying for a fresh passport or a renewal, this guide ensures you move through each stage confidently and correctly.
