How To Apply For New Passport Online: A Step-By-Step Guide
If you're applying for a fresh passport, you'll need to visit the Passport Seva Online Portal.
Passport, an essential travel document for international travel, is required for various purposes such as education, pilgrimage, tourism, business, medical attendance, or family visits. The document is issued by the government of India and is crucial for individuals planning to travel abroad.
In recent years, there has been a substantial increase in foreign travel from India, leading to a heightened demand for passport-related services. Addressing this surge, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) introduced the Passport Seva Project (PSP) in May 2010. This initiative aims to streamline the process of passport application and issuance, catering to the growing demand.
The application process for obtaining a passport has been simplified through the Passport Seva online portal.
Apply For Passports Online: Follow These Steps
1. Register Online:
- Visit the Passport Seva Online Portal (passportindia.gov.in) and click on the Register Now link on the Home Page.
- Log in to the Passport Seva Online Portal with the registered login ID.
2. Fill out the Application:
- Click on the Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport link.
- Complete the required details in the form and submit.
3. Payment and Scheduling:
- Use online payment methods (Credit/Debit Card, Internet Banking, or SBI Bank Challan) to book an appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO).
- Click the Pay and Schedule Appointment link on the View Saved/Submitted Applications screen.
4. Print Application Receipt:
- Click the Print Application Receipt link to obtain the application receipt with the Application Reference Number (ARN)/Appointment Number.
- Note: Carrying a printout of the Application Receipt is no longer mandatory; an SMS with appointment details is accepted as proof.
5. Visit the Passport Office:
- Head to the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO) at the scheduled appointment time.
- Bring original documents for verification.
Apply For Passports Online: Things To Keep In Mind
- Emergency/medical cases and preapproved categories may visit Passport Seva Kendra without an appointment.
- For minor applicants (below 4 years of age), carry a recent passport-size photograph (4.5x3.5 cm) with a white background.
- Applicants must visit the Passport Seva Kendra within 90 days from online form submission to avoid the need for resubmission.
This process aims to facilitate a smoother and more efficient experience for individuals applying for passports, aligning with the increasing demand for international travel.