What is the File Number in Passport & Its Purpose

The file number in passports is a 12-character alphanumeric reference that helps identify and track each passport application. It follows a specific structure for easy identification.

• City/State Code: The first 2-3 letters represent the Regional Passport Office (RPO) or the city/state where you submitted your application. (e.g., DEL for Delhi, MUM for Mumbai).

• Year of Application: The next two digits indicate the year of your passport application. (e.g., "25" for the dear 2025).

• Application-Specific Digits/Serial Number: The remaining digits are serial numbers assigned to the specific application received at that passport office.

The structured format of the passport application reference number ensures every file number is unique. And it helps authorities to quickly identify the location and run a “passport check by file number” in their system.

Also Read: How to Apply for a Passport? Online and Offline

After submitting your application for a new passport or its renewal, and paying the fee, you receive a file number. This reference code helps you track your application status at every step.

There are multiple ways to search passport file numbers to get an update on the progress. If you applied online for a fresh passport or renewal, you can find passport file number on the application receipt or the saved copy of your submitted form.

For in-person applications at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO), the receipt handed to you will also carry the fresh or passport renewal file number.

Please note: If your passport has already been issued, you can check the file number of the passport on the last line of the last page.

Read More: Passport Renewal Process

How to Find Passport File Number If You Lost It

Passport Seva Website

To find passport file numbers online, follow these steps.

• Visit the official Passport Seva Portal.
• Log in using your registered ID.
• Click on “View Saved/Submitted Applications.”
• Choose your application and click on “Track Status.”
• Your file number will be visible with the details of your application.
  This process is useful if you did not note your file number after submitting the application.

Email or SMS

You may also find the file number in passport on your registered email or SMS sent by the Passport Seva Kendra.

Visit Passport Seva Kendra

If you are unable to recover it online, you may visit the Passport Seva Kendra with your ID proof and application details. The staff can help you retrieve your file number from their database.

Ways to Track Passport Application Status

• Online Portal: Use the “passport check with file number” option on the Passport Seva Portal to get the current status.
• Mobile App: Download the mPassport Seva App for Android or iOS and use your file number to track status.
• SMS Service: If you opted for SMS alerts during the passport application process, updates will be sent to your registered mobile number.
• Helpdesk or PSK Visit: If online tracking does not help, you can always stop by your nearest Passport Seva Kendra or give their helpline a call. The staff there can assist you with real-time updates on your application status.

Steps to Track Passport Application Status Online

You can check your passport status using the “passport file number tracking” option on the official Passport Seva Portal.

• Visit the official Passport Seva Portal.
• Look for the “Track Passport Application” link on the homepage and click it.
• Choose the correct application type from the dropdown menu.
• Enter your file number in passport and your date of birth.
• Click on “Track Application Status” to see the latest update.

If you are applying for a reissue, you can even use your old passport file number. Always keep a copy of it safe - it makes tracking your application quicker and less stressful.

Read More: Documents Required for an Indian Passport

Many applicants face issues related to the file number in the Indian passport, especially during the application tracking stage.

• Entering an Incorrect File Number: One common problem is entering an incorrect file number, which results in an error or “No record found” message on the tracking portal. Typos, missing characters, or wrong passport office codes may lead to such errors.
• Delayed Updates on the Portal: Some users also experience delays in system updates, where even the correct file number shows an outdated status. Do not panic in such a situation, try checking after 24 - 48 hours for updates.
• Losing the File Number: Another issue is losing the file number, especially if the application receipt is misplaced. Without the file number in passport, tracking status or raising queries becomes difficult.
• Technical Errors: Some users face technical errors on the Passport Seva Portal, where the system does not recognise a valid file number. Sometimes, the website experiences downtime, server issues, or poor connectivity. In such cases, it is best to retry after some time or contact customer support.
• Confusion in Applicants: In some cases, confusion arises between the passport file number and the passport number (which is not generated until the application is approved). Such confusion may leave the applicant clueless about their passport file number tracking status.

Please note: If you find difficulties in tracking your passport application status, you can contact the Passport Seva Kendra or regional passport office. The officials will verify the file number and provide updates on your application status.

Also Read: How to Change Name and Address in a Passport?

The file number in an Indian passport is more than just a reference, it is your link to the entire application process. You will need it to check updates, reschedule appointments, or speak to passport officials. If you lose it, things can get tricky.

This number becomes even more important when you apply for a renewal or reissue, as past records often depend on it. Without it, getting the information you need could take much longer.

You must keep a digital and physical copy of your application receipt, so that you always have the file number handy. Since it links directly to your application, keeping it safe helps avoid
unnecessary stress and speeds up the overall passport process. Treat it as important as your passport number.

The file number in passports is printed on the last page of your passport booklet. It appears at the bottom of the last page, usually in the last line, and consists of a 12-character alphanumeric code.

The file number remains important for future references, including reissue, renewal, or any verification. The file number is not easily memorable, but it plays a key role in tracking records. Always note it down or save a copy of your passport once it is issued.

• Acts as a unique reference ID for your passport application.
• Helps track the application status online.
• Helps retrieve application details at Passport Seva Kendra.
• Required during communication with passport authorities.
• Needed for scheduling appointments or resubmitting documents.
• Serves as an identification number until the passport is issued.

The passport file number and passport number serve different but important roles in the passport process.

Passport File Number

It is generated when you submit your passport application. It acts as a unique reference ID to help track your application at every stage. You can check passport status by file number on the Passport Seva Portal. It is essential during the application phase to track status online, when visiting a Passport Seva Kendra or contacting support for updates.

Passport Number

On the other hand, the passport number is a unique identifier printed on the passport booklet once it is issued. It is used for travel, identification, and visa processing. While the file number is temporary and used until the passport is delivered, the passport number becomes your official travel document ID.

Both numbers are crucial, but at different stages. To check passport status by file number, always keep your application receipt safe until your passport is successfully delivered to you.

The passport file number is a reference code generated during the application process. It helps track your application, schedule appointments, and communicate with passport authorities. Unlike the passport number, which comes after issuance, the file number is your unique ID from application to delivery.

While your passport file number helps track the journey of your passport, overseas travel insurance ensures your safety once you begin your international journey. That is why it is wise to purchase international travel insurance online before you travel. Just as losing your file number can disrupt your application process, travelling without insurance can leave you exposed to unexpected emergencies.

TATA AIG allows you to easily buy travel insurance online in just a few clicks, so that you can have a safe and stress-free journey. We offer reliable international travel insurance plans designed for modern travellers like you. Whether you face medical emergencies, trip cancellations, or baggage loss, a travel insurance cover protects you against unexpected costs.

Stay secure wherever you go - choose TATA AIG travel insurance online and travel confidently.