Does Passport impact CIBIL Score in India?

Highlights:  

• Applying for a passport doesn’t have to feel complicated. Most of the process starts online, from filling out the form to booking your appointment.
• Not everyone needs the same documents, so check the Passport Seva Document Advisor before visiting the centre.
• Already have a passport that is expiring? You can apply for a re-issue, commonly referred to as passport renewal.

Planning an international trip, going abroad for studies, or simply want to keep your passport ready?

Getting a passport in India is easier than it may first seem. Most of the application process starts online through the official Passport Seva portal. You need to fill in your details, pay the fee, book an appointment, and visit a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK), as applicable.

If you are searching for how to apply for a passport, here is the complete process in simple steps.

How to Apply for a Passport Online?

You can start your passport apply online process through the official Passport Seva portal.

Here’s how it works:

1. Register on the Passport Seva portal.
2. Log in using your registered details.
3. Select Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport.
4. Fill in the required details and submit the application.
5. Select Pay and Schedule Appointment.
6. Pay the applicable passport fee online.
7. Book an appointment at the available PSK or POPSK.
8. Visit the selected centre on your appointment date with the required original documents.

Online payment is required to book an appointment. You can currently pay using credit/debit cards, internet banking, or UPI.

Once your application is submitted, keep your Application Reference Number (ARN) safe. You may need it later for passport tracking.

What Documents Are Required for a Passport?

There is no single document list that applies to every applicant.

The document required for a passport depends on factors such as whether you are applying for a fresh passport or a re-issue, your age, address, and application category.

For a fresh passport, applicants generally need documents supporting:

• Present address
• Date of birth
• Other details applicable to their application

You should use the Document Advisor on the official Passport Seva portal before your appointment. It gives you the document list based on your application details.

Applicants are generally required to carry original documents along with self-attested photocopies when visiting the PSK.

What Is the Passport Application Fee?

The passport application fee depends on the service you choose.

Here are some of the current fees applicable from July 1, 2026:

For minors, the passport is generally valid for 5 years or until they turn 18, whichever is earlier.

The passport application fee is non-refundable. Since fees can change, use the Fee Calculator on the Passport Seva portal before making a payment.

What Are the Passport Types in India?

There are three main passport types in India under the Passports Act:

Most people applying for personal travel, work, study, or tourism need an Ordinary Passport.

Understanding the different passport types in India can help you select the correct category when applying.

Is Police Verification Required for a Passport?

Police verification for a passport depends on the application and the applicable rules.

In some cases, police verification may happen before the passport is issued. In other eligible cases, it may happen after passport issuance or may not be required.

During verification, the police check the details relevant to your application, including your address.

So, don't assume that every passport application follows exactly the same police verification for the passport process.

How to Track Your Passport Application?

Finished your appointment and wondering what happens next?

You can use the passport tracking facility on the Passport Seva portal to check your application status.

You will generally need your:

• File Number
• Date of Birth

The status can show you the current stage of your passport application.

Keep your application details safe until your passport has been issued and delivered.

How Does Passport Renewal Work in India?

Technically, Passport Seva uses the term “re-issue” rather than renewal.

You can apply for re-issue when your passport is due to expire, has expired, has run out of visa pages, or when certain personal details need to be changed.

The passport renewal process is similar to applying for a fresh passport:

1. Log in to the Passport Seva portal.
2. Select Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport.
3. Choose the appropriate re-issue reason.
4. Complete the application.
5. Pay the applicable fee and schedule an appointment.
6. Visit the selected PSK or POPSK with the required documents.

Passport Seva allows re-issue applications when the passport validity has expired within the last three years or is due to expire within the next year, along with other eligible reasons.

If you are planning passport renewal, check the Document Advisor because the required documents depend on why your passport is being re-issued.

Normal vs Tatkaal Passport: What Is the Difference?

If you need a passport urgently, you may be able to apply under the Tatkaal scheme, subject to eligibility.

Tatkaal applications have an additional fee. The current additional Tatkaal fee is ₹2,500 for the passport services listed above.

The documents and processing requirements can also differ from a Normal application.

Before choosing Tatkaal, check your eligibility and the applicable passport application fee on the official Passport Seva portal.

Things to Check Before Your Passport Appointment

A little preparation can make your appointment easier.

Before visiting the PSK or POPSK:

• Check your application details for errors.
• Confirm your appointment date and location.
• Check the exact documents required for your passport using the Document Advisor.
• Carry the required original documents.
• Keep your appointment details available on your phone.

Passport Seva states that a printed application receipt is no longer mandatory. An SMS containing the appointment details is also accepted as proof of appointment.

Final Thoughts,

If you are wondering how to apply for a passport, start with the official Passport Seva portal.

Complete the passport application online process, check your documents, pay the applicable fee, and attend your appointment. Depending on your application, police verification may also be part of the process.

After your appointment, use the official passport tracking service to follow your application status.

And if your existing passport is expiring or needs changes, use the re-issue option for passport renewal.

Most importantly, always check the latest requirements on Passport Seva before applying. Fees, documents, and application requirements can vary depending on your individual case.

FAQs

1. How can I apply for a passport online in India?

You can apply through the official Passport Seva portal by registering, filling out the application form, paying the applicable fee, and scheduling an appointment at a PSK or POPSK.

2. What documents are required to apply for a passport in India? 

The documents depend on your application type and circumstances. Generally, you may need proof of date of birth, proof of address, and other supporting documents specified by Passport Seva.

3. How much is the passport application fee in India? 

The passport fee varies depending on factors such as the type of application, booklet size, and whether you choose the Normal or Tatkaal scheme.

4. Is police verification required for a passport in India? 

Police verification may be required depending on the type of passport application and your circumstances. It can take place before or after passport issuance in applicable cases.

5. How can I track my passport application status? 

You can track your application through the Passport Seva portal using your application details. Passport Seva also provides other options for receiving status updates.