Passport Renewal Guide
Is your passport nearing its expiry date, and are you unsure what to do next? You are not the only one. Many people realise their passport is expiring only when they plan international travel, and by then, time is already tight. It is a must to renew your passport early to avoid travel disruptions, delayed visa approvals, and last-minute stress.
You can renew Indian passports up to one year before expiry, and it is generally recommended to start this process 6–8 months in advance. To make the process easier and more transparent, the Indian government introduced the Passport Seva portal. From submitting applications to booking appointments and tracking status, the system offers impeccable convenience.
In this blog, we will discuss how to renew passport in India, covering everything you need to know, including both online and offline methods.
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List of Content
- How to Renew Passport?
- Key Tips on How to Renew a Passport
- Police Verification in Passport Renewal Process
- Document Required for Renewal of Passport
- Passport Renewal Fee and Charges
- Difference Between Renewal and Replacement of a Passport
- How to Track Passport Renewal Status?
- Conclusion
How to Renew Passport?
Passport Renewal Online Process
Step 1: Register on the Passport Seva Portal
Go to the official Passport Seva website. If you are a new user, create an account using a valid email ID. If you already have an account, log in with your existing details.
Step 2: Fill Out the Renewal Application
Once you are logged in, select “Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport.” Choose Re-issue and mention the reason for renewal, such as expiry, damage, or pages getting filled. You will also need to select the service type, Normal or Tatkaal, and your preferred booklet size of 36 or 60 pages.
Step 3: Pay the Passport Renewal Fee
After completing the form, move to the payment section. You can pay securely using net banking, a debit or credit card, UPI, or an SBI challan. Once the payment is done, make sure to save or print the acknowledgement receipt for your records.
Step 4: Book Your Appointment
Next, choose a convenient Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO). Pick a date and time that works for you and download the appointment confirmation slip.
Step 5: Visit the PSK/RPO
On the day of your appointment for passport renewal, bring all required original documents, photocopies, and your appointment receipt. Your documents will be checked, and your photograph and biometrics will be taken at the centre.
Step 6: Police Verification (If Required)
In some cases, police verification is needed. Under the Tatkaal scheme, this may happen after the passport is issued, otherwise, it usually takes place before the passport is dispatched.
Also Read: What is an E-Passport in India?
How to Renew Indian Passport Offline?
Step 1: Get the Application Form
Start by downloading the passport renewal form from the Passport Seva website under the Forms and Affidavits section. If you prefer, you can also pick up a physical copy from your nearest District Passport Cell for a small fee.
Step 2: Fill in Your Details Carefully
Take your time to fill out the form accurately. Make sure all the details match your current passport and supporting documents. Small mistakes can cause delays, so double-check before submitting.
Step 3: Visit the Passport Seva Kendra
Once the form is ready, head to the Passport Seva Kendra in person. Carry all required documents, along with self-attested photocopies, for verification.
Step 4: Pay the Renewal Fee
You will need to pay the passport renewal fee using a demand draft, as instructed by the passport office. The staff will guide you if you’re unsure about the payment details.
Step 5: Get Your Acknowledgement
After your documents are verified and your application is accepted, you will receive an acknowledgement letter. You can use this to track your passport renewal status until it is delivered.
Key Tips on How to Renew a Passport
- Before applying, check that your address, identity, and date of birth documents are up to date and match each other. Even small mismatches can slow the whole process.
- Start the renewal process 9 to 12 months before your passport expires, especially if you have travel plans. This gives you enough time to handle any delays without panic.
- On the day of your passport appointment, renew at the Passport Seva Kendra or Regional Passport Office and carry all original documents along with self-attested photocopies. This saves time and helps the process move smoothly.
- When filling out the application form, go through every detail carefully. If you make simple errors, such as spelling mistakes or incorrect dates, it can lead to unnecessary follow-ups or rework.
- Once your application for renewal of passport is submitted, keep the Application Reference Number (ARN) or file number.
- Choose your passport booklet size carefully. If you travel regularly or apply for visas frequently, a 60-page booklet can save you the trouble of early renewal.
- Until your new passport arrives, keep your old one safe. And once the new passport is delivered, check all details immediately so any errors can be corrected right away.
- If you are short on time, the Tatkaal option can help speed things up for an extra fee.
Police Verification in Passport Renewal Process
Police verification is a necessary step in the passport renewal process. Local police officers visit your residence to verify the details in your application and ensure authenticity, and to prevent identity fraud.
Maintaining accurate and up-to-date address proof is essential for a hassle-free verification experience. Ensure your address proof documents are current and match the information in your application to facilitate a smooth verification process.
Also Read: Passport vs Visa: Key Differences Every Traveller Should Know
Document Required for Renewal of Passport
- Original Passport: Bring your current passport on the day of your appointment for passport renewal. It will be checked by the officials and returned once the verification is done.
- Photocopies of Passport Pages: Keep self-attested copies of the first two and last two pages of your passport. These pages contain essential details like your name, address, and passport validity.
- ECR/Non-ECR Page Copy: If your passport mentions Emigration Check Required (ECR) or Non-ECR status, do not forget to include a self-attested copy of that page. This helps authorities verify your travel eligibility. Additionally, if you want a non-ECR passport, obtain all necessary documents.
- Proof of Address: Bring a valid proof of address, such as your Aadhaar card, bank passbook, voter ID, or a recent utility bill. Make sure the address matches what you have mentioned in your application for renewal of passport.
Passport Renewal Fee and Charges
The cost of renewing your passport depends on your age, the number of pages you choose, and whether you apply through the normal or Tatkaal process. Here is a list of the fees applicable:
- Adults (10-year validity): If you choose a 36-page passport, the fee is ₹1,500. For a larger 60-page booklet, the cost is ₹2,000. If you opt for Tatkaal service for faster processing, an additional ₹2,000 is charged.
- Minors (below 18 years): A 36-page passport valid for up to 5 years (or until the child turns 18) costs ₹1,000. Tatkaal processing, if required, costs an extra ₹2,000.
- Minors Aged 15–18 Opting for 10-year Validity: The fee for a 36-page passport is ₹1,500, with an additional ₹2,000 for Tatkaal service.
Note: Keep in mind that the fee is non-refundable. The fee may change from time to time, kindly check the latest fee before applying.
Difference Between Renewal and Replacement of a Passport
| Parameter | Renewal of Passport | Replacement of Passport |
|---|---|---|
| What it Means | This facility extends the validity of your current passport. | You get a brand-new passport booklet with a new passport number. |
| Process | The renewal process is simple and quick, and focused on extending the validity. | The process is more detailed, as it involves fresh checks and verification. |
| When Do You Need It | When your passport is close to expiry but is still in good condition. | When you lose your passport or it gets damaged, or when you need to update your personal details. |
| Time Taken | As this involves fewer steps, the process is completed faster. | This process takes a little longer due to additional verification. |
| Documents Needed | Fewer documents are needed. These are usually just your existing passport and the application form. | Extra documents may be required, such as FIRs, affidavits, or proof of changes. |
| Passport Number | The passport number remains the same as your current passport. | The passport number changes since a new passport is issued. |
How to Track Passport Renewal Status?
Step 1: Visit the Passport Seva Website
Go to the official Passport Seva website from your phone or computer.
Step 2: Click on “Track Passport Application”
On the homepage, look for the option that says “Track Passport Application” and click on it.
Step 3: Choose the Application Type
From the dropdown menu, select ‘Passport/PCC/IC/GEP’. This option also covers passport renewal applications.
Step 4: Enter Your Details
Type in your passport file number (also called the Application Reference Number) and your date of birth. Make sure
the details are entered correctly.
Step 5: View Your Application Status
Click on “Track Status”, and the current status of your passport renewal will appear on the screen, whether it is under processing, approved, or dispatched.
Conclusion
Completing your passport renewal online in advance ensures that your international travel plans remain uninterrupted. The Passport Seva portal simplifies the process of renewing your passport. If you prepare your documents in advance, double-check details, and track your application regularly, you can avoid unnecessary delays and travel stress.
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