Renewing a passport is a quick and effortless process. It can be done quickly and easily online, utilising the Internet's power and the available tools. By following the steps outlined, one can get your passport renewed in no time.
It is essential for an individual to possess a passport if they wish to travel abroad, whether for a solo trip, a family holiday, business trip, or for medical assistance. A valid passport is a must-have for any international trip. A passport does not guarantee access to any nation, but it is necessary for international travel. A passport is a useful document to have in one’s possession for more than just travel purposes. It serves as evidence of identity, age, and address, making it a valuable tool for many everyday tasks. This article explores the various aspects of passport renewal process in greater detail.
Passports and Validity in India
The Indian passport has a validity period of 10 years from the date of issue, and the holder can choose between 36 or 60 pages. Three kinds of passports exist for Indian citizens to apply for: regular, diplomatic, and official. It is important to ensure the expiration date has not passed to enjoy the benefits of having a passport.
When a passport has reached its expiration date, the holder can quickly and easily renew it through the Passport Seva Portal. This convenient online service allows citizens of India to manage their passport applications easily.
Documents Required for Renewal
The Passport Seva mandates that certain documents must be submitted with a passport renewal process application form. The document advisor on the Passport Seva Portal must be consulted to view the documents required. Once the option for renewal is selected, the Document Advisor will provide the documents necessary for the process.
Provide copies of the front and back of the original passport along with the pages of observations made by the issuing authority. Additionally, submit proof of documents explaining why a Short Validity Passport (SVP) was issued and any extensions of the SVP.
Online Passport Renewal Process: Full Guide
Renewing an expired passport is essential. Passport Seva offers the public a convenient way to apply both online and offline. Thanks to technological advancement and the internet, applying for passports has become much simpler. Users must first register on the Passport Seva portal to submit an online application. After this, the application procedure for passports can be completed swiftly. It includes login registration, application, and information about the passport.
Passport Login Registration
To sign up for the Passport Seva portal, these steps must be taken: go to the official website and click on the ‘New User? Register Now’ tab, pick the nearest Passport Office, enter the required personal information, create a Login ID and Password, pick a Hint Question and Answer, click the ‘Register’ icon, open the activation link sent to your provided email, and activate the account. Finally, you can then move forward with renewing your passport.
Once you’ve gone through the registration process, you can log in to the Passport Seva webpage, view your profile, and send in your passport application. Necessary documents, such as a birth certificate, proof of address, and the requisite forms, must be supplied and uploaded.
You must print the application, sign it, and mail it to the regional passport office. After you’ve applied, you can check the status of your passport request by logging in and entering your application ID and date of birth. You can also read additional information related to the passport application. Aside from applying for your passport, you can also apply for a passport for a minor child of yours on the Passport Seva website. Enter the details, upload the documents, and submit the application – the passport will be listed in your name.
Online Application for Renewal of Passport: Step-by-step Explanation
To apply for the passport renewal on the Passport Seva portal, one must first visit the official website and click on the ‘Existing User? Login’ icon. Then, click on the ‘Apply for fresh passport/ Re-issue of passport’ tab and fill out the Form provided. It is important to review the information entered before submitting the Form, as any errors cannot be corrected once submitted.
Once the application is complete, one must schedule an appointment and make an applicable payment. Online payment is accepted, or a printed challan can be paid at any SBI branch, though this may take up to two days to be verified. After the application is finished, the applicant must click the ‘Print Application Receipt’ tab to receive a receipt containing the Application Reference Number and other important details.
The individual must attend the passport office on the agreed date and time, bringing along the SMS received as proof of the appointment. If the appointment is missed, it will be necessary to apply for a new one. Upon arriving at the Passport Seva Kendra, a group number will be assigned and noted on the application form.
When the number is called, the application process will begin. After the application is accepted, the passport will be delivered to the registered address shortly after that. It is possible to track the progress of the passport renewal online by using the Passport Login credentials.
Once the passport is obtained, it is essential to check the information on it thoroughly, such as the photograph, name and date of birth. If any details are incorrect, the passport agency should be contacted immediately to make the necessary corrections. It is also necessary to sign the passport after verifying all the contents. The passport must be kept in a secure location and should not be shared with other individuals.
It is important to note that the passport is not transferable and must be used exclusively by the holder. The passport must be kept current, and all documents for renewal must be sent to the passport agency before the expiration date. Additionally, a valid visa must be obtained if travelling abroad, as failure to have the required paperwork can lead to the passport being taken away.
Understanding When the Passport Needs to be Reissued and When it is Due for Renewal
The circumstances that necessitate the reissue of a passport include losing the passport, having a passport that is expired or about to expire, having a stolen passport, having a passport that is damaged or soiled, needing more pages, or needing to update personal details. Instead of the current passport being given back as the renewed passport, in these cases, a new passport is issued.
The applicant must fill out a renewal application with pertinent information, provide proof of identity and citizenship, and supply a recent passport photo to apply for a replacement passport. Depending on why the passport is being reissued, additional documents may be required, such as a police report, court order, or marriage certificate. The applicant may also be required to appear in person.
Fees for the passport and any other services must also be paid. Once the application is submitted, it will usually take 4-8 weeks for the passport to be processed. Further documents or an interview may be requested in certain cases. After the passport is issued and the applicant has signed it, the reissue process is complete.
How to Renew Your Passport Offline?
If you’re looking to renew your passport offline in India, here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through the process:
Step 1: Download and Print the Application Form
Visit the Passport Seva website and choose the ‘Print Application Form’ option under the ‘Forms and Affidavits’ tab. Download the application form and print it on an A4 sheet.
Step 2: Print the Form
Ensure that you print the form back-to-back on the A4 sheet.
Step 3: Obtain a Physical Form
Alternatively, you can acquire a physical form for ₹ 10 at the District Passport Cell.
Step 4: Fill and Submit
Complete the application form with accurate details and submit it at the District Passport Cell. Remember to attach photocopies of all necessary supporting documents.
Step 5: Payment via Demand Draft
Upon verification of your application, photos, and documents, make the required payment using a Demand Draft.
Step 6: Acknowledgement Letter and Tracking
Once the payment is made, an ‘Acknowledgement Letter’ will be issued. This letter contains a unique file number, which you can use to track the status of your application online.
Important Points to Remember
- Carry your original documents when submitting the form.
- Do not sign your name on the photograph.
- Ensure that your name, date of birth, and date of submission of the form are written on the back of the Demand Draft.
How to Fill an e-Form for Passport Renewal
If you’re planning to renew your passport using the online platform, here’s a simple guide to fill out the e-Form for passport renewal through the Passport Seva portal:
Step 1: Log in to the Passport Seva Website
Access the Passport Seva website and log in to your account using your credentials.
Step 2: Download the e-Form
Select the ‘Fresh or Re-issue of passport’ option and download the corresponding e-Form provided on the website.
Step 3: Fill in the Relevant Details
Open the downloaded e-Form and begin filling in the necessary details. Ensure you input accurate information as per the instructions and guidelines.
Step 4: Validate and Save
After completing the form, click on the ‘Validate and Save’ button to verify the provided details. The system will prompt you if any required fields are missing or incorrectly filled.
Step 5: Upload the Form
Once the e-Form is validated and saved, proceed to upload the file to the Passport Seva website. Make sure you review the form one last time to ensure all information is accurately captured.
How to Schedule a Passport Renewal Appointment
If you’re looking to schedule a passport renewal appointment online, follow these straightforward steps for a hassle-free process:
Step 1: Log in to the Passport Seva Website
Begin by logging into the Passport Seva website using your registered credentials.
Step 2: Access Application and Appointment
Under the ‘View Saved and Submitted Application’ section, choose the ‘Pay and Schedule Appointment’ option.
Step 3: Select a Convenient Slot
Browse through the available slots and select a date and time that suits your schedule for the appointment.
Step 4: Pay the Fees
Proceed to pay the necessary fees for the renewal appointment. Opt for a mode of payment such as credit/debit card (Visa/MasterCard), net banking with SBI or affiliated banks, or SBI Challan.
Step 5: Print Application Receipt and Note Appointment Details
Select the ‘Print Application Receipt’ option, which will provide you with your appointment number/application reference number for the renewal appointment.
Post this online procedure, you’ll need to physically visit the designated Passport Seva Kendra at your chosen appointment time. Remember to carry both the originals and photocopies of your supporting documents. Your group number, specified in your receipt, will guide you through the subsequent steps for document submission and other necessary formalities. This simple process ensures a seamless experience when renewing your passport.
How Much is the Passport Renewal Fee
The cost of renewing an Indian passport varies depending on factors like the applicant’s age, selected passport booklet pages, and the chosen scheme, distinguishing between normal or tatkal. Here’s a detailed overview of the fee structure for Indian passport renewal.
| Age | Required Scheme | No of Pages | Fees for Passport Renewal in ₹ |
| Less Than 15 Years | Normal | NA | 1000 |
| Less Than 15 Years | Tatkal | NA | 3000 |
| Between 15 – 18 Years (for 5 years/till they become 18) | Normal | NA | 1000 |
| Between 15 – 18 Years (for 5 years/till they become 18) | Tatkal | NA | 3000 |
| Between 15 – 18 Years (for 10 years) | Normal | 36 | 1500 |
| Between 15 – 18 Years (for 10 years) | Normal | 60 | 2000 |
| Between 15 – 18 Years (for 10 years) | Tatkal | 36 | 3500 |
| Between 15 – 18 Years (for 10 years) | Tatkal | 60 | 4000 |
| 18 Years and Above | Normal | 36 | 1500 |
| 18 Years and Above | Normal | 60 | 2000 |
| 18 Years and Above | Tatkal | 36 | 3500 |
| 18 Years and Above | Tatkal | 60 | 4000 |
How Long is the Passport Renewal Processing Time
The duration for passport renewal varies based on the scheme selected. Opting for the normal scheme entails a waiting period of approximately 30 to 60 days. On the other hand, the tatkaal scheme offers a faster renewal process, typically taking 3 to 7 days.
Here’s How to Track Passport Renewal Status
If you’re in the process of renewing your passport and are eager to track its progress, follow these simple steps to monitor your passport renewal status:
Step 1: Log In
Begin by accessing the Passport Seva website and logging into your account.
Step 2: Select ‘Track Application Status’
Once logged in, navigate to the homepage and locate the ‘Track Application Status’ option.
Step 3: Enter Application Details
Choose the appropriate application type, whether it’s Passport, PCC, IC, or GEP. Input your file number and date of birth, which are crucial for identification.
Step 4: Track Status
After entering the required details, click on ‘Track Status’ to instantly view and monitor the current status of your passport renewal application.
What is the Difference Between the Renewal and Re-issue of Passport
The distinction between passport renewal and re-issue in India is essential for understanding the respective processes involved.
Passport Renewal
Passport renewal refers to the process of extending the validity of an existing passport. If you have a passport that is still valid for 1 to 5 years, renewal allows you to extend its validity up to 10 years, subject to approval from the authorities.
Re-issue of Passport
On the other hand, the re-issue of a passport is a broader term encompassing various circumstances:
- Expired or Expiring Passport: If your passport has expired or is nearing expiry, a re-issue is necessary.
- Loss or Theft: In cases of a lost or stolen passport, a re-issue is required to obtain a new one.
- Personal Details Update: If you need to modify personal information in your passport, a re-issue is necessary.
- Exhausted Pages: If you have used up all the pages in your passport, a re-issue with a new booklet is needed.
- Soiled or Damaged Passport: When your current passport is soiled or damaged, a re-issue ensures you receive a valid, undamaged one.
Understanding these differences helps applicants select the appropriate process based on their specific circumstances, ensuring a seamless passport experience.
Conclusion
The internet provides a quick and hassle-free approach to obtaining a new passport. The process is user-friendly, secure, and time-saving. It requires basic information, is highly secure, and eliminates waiting in line to apply. Taking advantage of online passport renewal process is a fast and convenient option. Vakilsearch also provides knowledge and assistance regarding passport issues and registration.
FAQs
How can I renew my passport online?
To renew your passport online, log in to the Passport Seva website, fill the application, pay the fee, and schedule an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra.
What are the documents required for the renewal of a passport?
For passport renewal, you need your old passport, a valid ID proof, address proof, and recent passport-sized photos.
What is the difference between passport renewal and reissue?
Passport renewal extends a valid passport's validity, while reissue involves expired, lost, damaged passports, or personal information changes.
Do we need to carry photos for passport renewal?
Yes, carry recent passport-sized photos for passport renewal.
Is a birth certificate mandatory for passport reissue?
A birth certificate may be required for correcting or updating personal details during passport reissue.
What is the fee for Tatkal passport renewal?
The fee for Tatkal passport renewal varies based on the type of passport booklet chosen. For precise fee details, contact Vakilsearch experts.
Is police verification required for Tatkal passport renewal?
Yes, police verification is done for Tatkal passport renewal to ensure the applicant's credentials.
Which passport is best, Tatkal or normal?
Both are valid, but Tatkal offers expedited processing for urgent travel needs, while normal passport renewal follows regular processing.
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