Q: What are the various locations where I can submit my application for obtaining a passport?

A: You can submit Passport Application Form Online or via District Passport Cell (DPC) of your district. Q: What are the various channels through which I can apply for Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)? A: For Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) you need to fill the Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Form online via e-Form Submission (preferred) or via Online Form Submission. For submitting your Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) application online, you need to register yourself as a user on our website (www.passportindia.gov.in). To create your user account, please click on "Register" link on Home page. Q: Where can I submit the diplomatic /official passport application form? A: Normally applications for diplomatic and official passports are entertained only at the Consular, Passport and Visa (CPV) Division, Patiala House, New Delhi. However, you can also choose to apply at any Passport Office if you reside outside the National Capital Region. Q: Can anyone else submit my passport application on my behalf? A: Under the new system, it is mandatory for all applicants to be physically present at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) along with Application Print receipt and original documents after submitting application Online. Q: I want to add my spouse name on my passport. Where can I apply for the same? OR I want to change my existing personal particulars in the passport. Where can I apply for the same? A: If you want to add spouse name in your passport, you need to apply for reissue of passport. You can submit the filled in Passport Application Form at any Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) within the jurisdiction of your Passport Office. You can also fill the form online before coming to Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Q: What are the various DOs and DON'Ts for applicants applying at District Passport Cell (DPC)? A: The various DOs and DON'Ts for applicants applying at District Passport Cell (DPC) are: Paste colour photograph having white/light background, No signature/ stamp Photograph on the pasted photograph, Size- 4.5 cm x 3.5 cm, photograph on the application form should be of the applicant only. Should be issued by a Scheduled bank, Validity 60 days or more from date of Demand submission, Draft should be of exact amount of fee, as applicable and not be Draft torn/soiled. Self-attested photocopies of the supporting documents that need to be submitted along with the form (In case of submission at Citizen Service Centre Documents (CSC), particularly at Bangalore-1, applicants are requested to attach attested photocopies (either gazetted official or notary) of all documents with the application form.)CLEAR photocopies, One documentary proof is sufficient

for each document category, Documents should be correctly mentioned in the "ENCLOSURES" section and properly attached, Personal Details mentioned in the application form should match the details in the enclosed documents e.g. address, employment type, gender, Parent's/Spouse name, citizenship, Date of Birth. Only passport application forms in NEW FORMAT will be accepted, form should not be torn/soiled, form should be complete/correct in all respects e.g. valid 10 digit mobile number, Education Qualifications & Emergency Contact Application Details should be mentioned clearly, Present/Permanent Address with correct form Pin code is filled, 'Residing since' and both references should be provided, ECNR category to be appropriately mentioned. In "Place of Birth" column, only "Village", "District" and "State" needs to be mentioned; "Post" and "Taluk" not required. Applicant should sign/ provide thumb impression STRICTLY within the Signature designated box below the photograph and also at the self declaration in the last page. Q: What are the key changes with respect to passport application submission at District Passport Cells/? A: Only fresh passport applications will now be accepted at District Passport Cells. Therefore, following cases will NOT be handled at District Passport Cells:

Reissue Case Tatkaal Case Complex Case Click here to view list of complex cases Miscellaneous services (e.g. Police Clearance Certificate (PCC))

Online Q: Can I apply online for reissue of passport? A: Yes Q: Can I apply for Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) application online? A: Yes Q: How can I apply for a passport online? OR What are the things I need to take care of while applying for a passport online? (Checklist) A: To apply online, you need to be a registered user. When you apply online, you also have an option to download an e-Form that you can fill offline and upload later on. For downloading the form you need not be a registered user, but for uploading the form you need to register yourself. To apply for a passport online , please click on "Home". You can also upload the documents required for applying the passport. You should have the scanned copy of the documents.

Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) Q: What is a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)? A: Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) will facilitate front-end activities of passport issuance. Hence, it will facilitate the issuing of passport to applicants. These centres will cover functionalities from token issuance to final granting of application for passport issue/re-issue and other services. Passport Office (PO) Q: What is a Passport Office (PO)? A: Passport Office (PO) would handle all back-end activities required for processing all passport applications. The POs would be responsible for (i)printing (ii)lamination (iii) dispatch of Passports, and (iv) granting of applications received through District Passport Cell (DPCbesides attending to (I) establishment matters, (ii) legal cases and (iii) financial matters. Q: What kinds of applications are handled at a Passport Office? A: Following types of applications are processed at a Passport Office (PO): 1. Special purpose passports for visiting countries like Israel/Taiwan 2. Diplomatic Official Passports 3. Further processing of District Passport Cell (DPC and cases sent by respective Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). 4. Further processing of Complex Cases escalated by Assistant Passport Officer (APO) at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) to Regional Passport Officer (RPO) at Passport Office (PO) Q: I want to apply for a fresh passport. Can I apply for the passport at a Passport Back Office as it is near to my place? A: No, you cannot apply for a passport at a Passport Back Office. You need to visit Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)//District Passport Cell (DPC in your area to submit your passport application. District Passport Cell (DPC) of your district Q: What is a District Passport Cell (DPC)? A: District Passport Cell (DPC) is a collection centre where application forms pertaining to issue of fresh passports can be submitted. All the forms that are collected are then sent to the designated Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) for further processing. Q: Can I apply for a passport under the Tatkaal scheme at District Passport Cell (DPC)? A: Tatkaal applications are accepted only at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). They are not accepted at District Passport Cell (DPC). Q: Can online registered application be submitted at District Passport Cell (DPC)? A: Online registered applications have to be submitted at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)/ . They are not accepted at District Passport Cell (DPC).

Q: The validity of my passport is expiring in six months. Can I apply for reissue of passport through District Passport Cell (DPC) available in my district? A: No, you cannot apply for reissue of passport through District Passport Cell (DPC available in your district. Only application form pertaining to issue of fresh passport can be submitted at District Passport Cell (DPC). Q: What documents I need to carry while applying for a passport in District Passport Cell (DPC)? A: When you go to a District Passport Cell (DPC)/Speed Post Centre (SPC) or Citizen Service Centre (CSC) for submitting your application form, please carry:

Self-attested photocopies of the supporting documents that need to be submitted along with the form (In case of submission at Citizen Service Centre (CSC), particularly at Bangalore-1, applicants are requested to attach attested photocopies (either gazetted official or notary) of all documents with the application form). Originals of the supporting documents Your recent passport size photograph (4.5 cm length x 3.5 cm width) in colour Filled application form Demand Draft (DD) drawn in favor of "PAO-MEA" payable at the city where the Regional Passport Office (RPO) is located, if you are paying fee by DD.

If you are not carrying passport form, you may buy the same from District Passport Cell (DPC and fill it there itself. To know the document details, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: I submitted my application at District Passport Cell (DPC and forgot to attach one document. Where should I submit the same? A: You need to visit the Passport Office for submitting the missing documents.

Q: What are the various passport services and which form has to be filled in? A: The various passport services are: 1. Issue of Fresh Passport: You can apply for fresh passport if you have never had a passport 2. Re-issue of Passport: You can apply for reissue of passport if you are applying for another passport in lieu of an existing passport for any of the following reasons: o Your passport has either expired or is about to expire. You can apply for reissue of passport up to one year before expiry or within three years after the expiry of the existing passport without fresh police verification, provided there is clear police report with respect to your previous passport and there is no adverse entry in the system. o Your last passport has expired more than three years ago o You want to change the personal particulars or other details specified in the passport

Pages in the existing passport booklet have exhausted Passport booklet is lost Passport booklet is damaged. The booklet may be damaged beyond recognition or damaged but recognizable (i.e. Passport number is readable, name is legible and photograph is intact 3. Miscellaneous Service: Issue of Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Main Application Form Q: The Surname field is blank on my passport. And my full name is written in the Given Name field. Could anybody tell the process to add the surname to my passport? A: If you find any mistake/error in the particulars printed in the passport booklet and the application form you submitted, please return the passport for necessary rectification. Any additional fees required to be paid would depend solely on Assistant Passport Officers (APOs)/ Passport Officers (POs) decision. If there is a misrepresentation of facts, then penalty could also be imposed. Applicants are requested to apply online which will ensure that the passports are delivered without any typographical errors since the applicants have themselves fed the data. If you have done a mistake while filling your passport application form i.e. you have filled your full name in the "Given Name" field, then you will have to apply for re-issue of passport for change in personal particulars. Supplementary Form Q: When do I have to fill the Supplementary form? A: The Application Form which are submitted at DPC consists of two forms, i.e., Passport Application Form and Supplementary Form. References for columns to be filled in the Supplementary Form have been given in the Passport Application Form, which has to be filled only if they are applicable to you, else leave them blank. Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Form Q: Can Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) be issued for more than one country through one application form? A: Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) can only be issued for one country through one application form. Diplomatic/Official Form Q: Is it necessary to paste the photograph in the Diplomatic/Official Passport Application Form? If yes, what should be the specifications of the photograph? A: In case of the Diplomatic/Official Passport Application Form, pasting of photograph on the form is not required as your photograph will be clicked when you visit the CPV Division or the Passport Office (PO) for processing of your application. Documents to be attached with the application form Q: Do I need to provide original documents or will certified copies or extract be enough? A: Applicants are required to attach self attested photocopies of all the required documents with the application form. Original documents must be produced at the counter; these will be returned after verification.

o o o

Q: Is Identity Certificate mandatory for Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees? OR Can a government employee apply as an ordinary citizen without submitting the additional documents? OR In what cases Annexure B and M have to be submitted and is it mandatory to submit these documents? A: For issuance of fresh passport, Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees need to submit either Identity Certificate in original as per Annexure "B" or No Objection Certificate (NOC) as per Annexure "M" as an additional document along with the application form. If he/she submits Annexure "B", passport will be issued without police verification and if he/she submits Annexure "M", then passport will be issued on post police verification basis. For reissue of passport, Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees need to submit No Objection Certificate (NOC) as per Annexure "M" as an additional document along with the application form. Q: I am working in ICICI Bank? Am I required to furnish my Identity Certificate? A: Only Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees need to submit their Identity Certificate. Employees of private banks are not required to submit Identity Certificate while applying for passport. Q: If a government employee wants to apply for major change in name in passport, is leading newspaper cutting required to be submitted? A: If Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employee wants to go for major change in name, then he/she has to submit the following additional documents: 1. Gazette Notification changing name in applicant's department. 2. Fresh ID Certificate in changed name. 3. Deed poll/sworn affidavit as per Annexure "E". Hence, leading newspaper cutting is not required to be submitted. Q: Is No Police Verification (PV) possible in case of change in name of Govt. /PSU/Statutory Body employees? If yes, what documents are required? A: The documents required required are:

Issue of fresh passport: In case of change in name of Govt./PSU/statutory body employees, Pre PV will be done. Post PV will be done on submission of Tatkaal documents. To know the document details, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page.

Q: Can dependents of Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees apply for the passport in the normal process without submitting any affidavits?

A: Dependent family members of Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees can be issued passport without police verification, if they submit the following additional documents along with their application form: 1. "Identity Certificate" in original as per Annexure "B" (of dependent) 2. Standard Affidavit as per Annexure "I" Otherwise, passport would be issued to them on pre police verification basis, or post police verification basis - if they apply under the Tatkaal scheme. Q: Is it mandatory to submit Birth Certificate for applicants who are born on or after 26.01.1989? A: Yes, for applicants born on or after 26.01.89, only Birth Certificate issued by the Municipal Authority or any office authorized to issue Birth and Death Certificate by the Registrar of Births & Deaths is acceptable. Q: Do I need to submit a Birth Certificate for reissue of a passport? A: In case of reissue of passport, you need to submit a date of birth proof, if either your old passport is lost/damaged or you want to change date of birth details in the passport. Q: I am a salaried person and Income tax is deducted from salary. What are the documents I need to submit for Non-ECR status? A: Following documents have to be submitted for Non-ECR (previously ECNR) status:

Proof of assessment of income tax and actual payment of income tax for the last one year; OR Income Tax return statement (with income tax being paid by the applicant) for the last one year that is stamped by income tax authorities and a copy of your PAN card.

To know the document details, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: What documents are required when there is a change in name on account of divorce? A: Following additional documents have to be submitted:1. Court certified copy of Divorce decree or self attested copy of Divorce certificate 2. Deed Poll or Sworn Affidavit as per Annexure "E" given in the Passport Instruction booklet To know the document details, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: What documents have to be submitted for applicants who are unable to provide the prescribed marriage certificate or joint affidavit due to marital discord or separation and are applying for fresh passport? A: Such applicants have to submit an affidavit sworn before First Class Judicial Magistrate on a Non-Judicial stamp paper as per specimen provided in Annexure 'K'. For format of Annexure 'K', please Click Here (Instruction Booklet)

Q: What are the requirements /documents needed for getting the date of birth changed in my passport? A: To change the date of birth in your passport, you have to apply for reissue of passport and get the specified change done in the personal particulars. To know the document details, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: I want to apply for a passport. I have changed my address last month. What documents should I submit along with the application form? A: You need to submit the following documents:

Old passport in original with self-attested photocopy of its first two and last two pages, including ECR/Non-ECR page (previously ECNR), the page of observation (if any) made by Passport Issuing Authority and validity extension page, if any, in respect of short validity passport Proof of present address

Also, provide your "Previous Residence with Reference Details" in Column 3 of the supplementary form. Q: Can I apply for change in my gender or change in father's/mother's name in the passport? What additional documents do I have to submit? A: To change your gender or your father's/mother's name, you have to apply for reissue of passport and get the specified change done in personal particulars. To know the document details, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: An applicant has repatriated from abroad at Government cost and wants to apply for a fresh passport. However he does not have a proof of refund of repatriation cost to Ministry of External Affairs. What should he do? A: Meet the Assistant Passport Officer (APO) at his/her nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Q: In case of Christians, Muslims and Parsis, will marriage certificate issued by Qazi/Church be accepted as a valid proof for marriage certificate? A: An attested copy of marriage certificate issued by Registrar of Marriage would only be accepted as a valid proof for marriage certificate. If you have marriage certificate issued by Qazi/Church, then you need to meet Assistant Passport Officer (APO) at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Q: What should be the value of the stamp paper on which the various affidavits required are to be executed? A: An affidavit needs to be prepared on a non-judicial stamp paper of minimum value. Q: I am a self employed person and have recently shifted to Bangalore from Delhi. I want to apply for a passport on Tatkaal basis, but I don't have any address proof. What should I do? A: It is mandatory to submit proof of address to apply for a passport. For Proof of Address, attach one of the following documents:

Water/Telephone (landline or post paid mobile bill)/Electricity bill/Statement of running bank account (Scheduled Commercial bank excluding Regional Rural banks and local area banks)/Income Tax Assessment Order/Election Commission Photo ID card/Gas connection bill/Certificate from Employer of reputed and widely known companies on letter head Spouse's passport copy (First and last page including family details), (provided the applicant's present address matches the address mentioned in the spouse's passport) Parent's passport copy, in case of minors (First and last page) Applicant's current and valid ration card

Note: If any applicant submits only ration card as proof of address, it should be accompanied by one more proof of address out of the given categories. Others Application Form Related Queries Q: What are the major defects noticed at the Passport Office (PO), when an application is scrutinized? A: The major defects noticed at the Passport Office (PO), when an application is scrutinized are as follows:

If an applicant has stayed at more than one place during the last one year from the date of submission of his/her application, all the addresses should be indicated. Any incomplete residential information when noticed during the Police Verification not only attracts penalty but also leads to considerable delay in processing the case. Applicants are required to attach self-attested copies of all documents with the application form. Original documents must also be produced at the counter; these will be returned after verification. Whenever, there is addition of spouse name in the form and if the applicant's previous passport did not have the spouse name, attach the required documents. Similarly, whenever the spouse name is not being mentioned in the new application whereas the earlier passport had the Spouse name, then the Divorce deed/Death certificate etc. has to be enclosed, to enable the Passport Office (PO) to accede to the request of the applicant. For applicants born on or after 26.01.89, only Birth Certificate issued by the Municipal Authority or any office authorized to issue Birth and Death Certificate by the Registrar of Births & Deaths is acceptable. The Birth Certificate should contain the name of the child, name of father and mother, date of birth, place of birth, gender, registration number and date of registration. If the Birth Certificate doesn't contain the name of the child, a declaration on plain paper signed by parents, is required to be submitted specifying the name of the child. All other applicants born before 26.1.1989, should either submit Birth certificate issued by a Municipal Authority or any office authorized to issue Birth and Death Certificate by the Registrar of Births & Deaths or School leaving certificate/Secondary School leaving certificate/Certificate of Recognized Boards from the school last attended by the applicant or any other recognized educational institution. Illiterate or semi-illiterate applicants (Less than 5th class) can submit

notarized affidavits indicating their place and date of birth as per specimen provided in Annexure "A". Photograph is not required for applications submitted at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). For applications submitted at other collection centers, ensure that the photograph is front facing with both ears visible, and has a plain white background. Photograph is not to be signed. For details refer "Table 1: Dos and Don'ts concerning Photograph to be submitted at District Passport Cell (DPC)/Speed Post Centre (SPC)/Citizen Service Centre (CSC)" in the passport instruction booklet. Single parent of the child born out of wedlock should submit a declaration affirming the particulars furnished in the application about the minor child as per: Annexure "C". Use black or blue ball point pen only. Do NOT fill the application form with ink-pen or pencil. Self attested photocopies of documents have to be submitted with the application form. Under the Tatkaal scheme, you need to submit a Standard Affidavit as per the specimen provided in Annexure 'I' along with Verification Certificate as per specimen provided in Annexure 'F' or three documents out of the list of fifteen documents mentioned below. The Passport Issuing Authority has the right to verify the authenticity of the Verification Certificate from the official who has issued it. For three documents to be submitted from the fifteen documents listed below, one of the three documents should be a photo identity document and at least one of the three must be amongst the documents indicated as (a) to (i) below and name in all the three documents should be same. a. Electors Photo Identity Card b. Service Identity Card issued by State/Central Government, Public Sector Undertakings, local bodies or public Limited Companies c. SC/ST/OBC Certificates d. Freedom Fighter Identity Cards e. Arms Licenses f. Property Documents such as Pattas, Registered Deeds etc. g. Ration cards h. Pension Documents such as ex-servicemen's Pension Book, Pension Order, ex-servicemen's Widow/Dependent Certificates, Old Age Pension Order, Widow Pension Order i. Railway Identity Cards j. Income Tax Identity (PAN) cards (k) Bank/Kisan/Post Office Passbooks k. Student Photo Identity Cards issued by Government Recognized Educational Institutions in respect of full time courses l. Driving Licenses (valid and within the jurisdiction of State of submission of application) m. Birth Certificates issued under the RBD act n. Gas Connection Bill (of one year before and current bill). TATKAAL applications which are accompanied by Verification Certificate as per Annexure "F" should always be in the Official Stationery of the officer issuing the certificate, and invariably enclose the official and residence telephone no. of the

officer along with mobile no., copy of the Identity card with photograph of the officer and the photo of the applicant should be stamped with the office seal. Defense officials who need not submit their photo ID should submit any other photo ID for record. The applicants are also advised to bring an affidavit on non-judicial stamp paper duly attested by a Notary Public, as per the specimen provided in Annexure "I". Q: I have printed my online form and have found a mistake. How can I correct it? A: At the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) please ask the Citizen Service Executive (CSE) to make the required changes in the application form.

Q: How do I make the payment? A: You can pay at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) in cash only. If you are submitting your application at a District Passport Cell (DPC), you can pay only by demand draft. Note: Demand draft should be drawn in favor of "PAO-MEA" payable at the city where the Passport Office (PO) is located. Q: Can a citizen make the payment with the debit card? A: Currently fees can be paid at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) in cash only. Later Credit cards and debit cards may be accepted at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) Only Credit/ Debit cards of self or family member whose details have been mentioned in the passport application form are acceptable. Q: How much do I have to pay to apply for a passport? A: To know the fee details, please click on "Fee Calculator" link on Home page. Q: What is the fee for issue of passport under the Tatkaal scheme? A: To know the fee details, please click on "Fee Calculator" link on Home page. Q: How much do I have to pay along with the Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Application form? A: The fee to be paid along with the Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) application form is Rs.500/-. You can pay at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) in cash only.

cation Overview

d for my passport 6 months ago and the police verification is still pending? Should I keep waiting or can I apply in the ne

ional Passport office (RPO) has embarked on a special pendency clearance drive. Please wait for four weeks. If you still do not , please visit the Passport Office (PO).

Police Verification required for issuance of passport?

is a very valuable document. Thus, in order to ensure that it does not go in wrong hands, police verification is required fo

re various Police Verification modes?

e 3 modes of police verification:

Police Verification is not required. Police Verification is required on a Post-Passport Issuance basis. Police Verification is required on Pre-Passport Issuance basis.

ng on whether an application is for issue of fresh passport or reissue of passport, Passport Office (PO) shall decide wh tion is required for issuance of Passport to you. In most cases, of issue of fresh passport, pre-police verification would be requir overnment servants on submission of 'Identity Certificate' as per Annexure 'B', or minors whose parent(s) hold valid passport reissue, depending on records available in the Passport Office system, police verification would not be required or only ion would be required, exceptions being reissue of passport in lieu of lost passport or complete change of name.

uch time does it take to process a passport application where Police Verification (PV) Mode is Pre/Post/No?

efer the Passport Instruction Booklet Click Here to apply for a passport for my one year old baby. Would Police Verification be done in his/her a minor and wish to apply for a passport. What documents do I need to submit to escape Police Verification?

parent of the minor holds a valid passport with spouse name endorsed, passport will be issued to the minor without any police passport of parent(s) should be presented for the verification of particulars. If parent(s) hold a valid passport, but spouse d, then they must get the spouse name added in their passport. For this, they have to apply for reissue of passport and get the spec personal particulars. If either parent does not hold a valid passport, passport will be issued to the minor only after police verifi y under Tatkaal scheme to get the passport on post police verification basis.

nts have passport with adverse Police Verification Report or they have a criminal background, can passport be issued basis?

cases, minors can be issued passport under the Tatkaal scheme subject to Assistant Passport Officer's (APOs) approval.

nor (age 14) is applying for a passport and his parents (who held a valid passport) have expired but they had passport his/her deceased parent's passport copy and death certificate to avail NO Police verification?

iven case the applicant doesn't have to submit the deceased parent's passport copy and death certificate of his/her parent nts have to be submitted:

Proof of DoB Proof of Present Address (Of Guardian) A Declaration affirming the particulars furnished in the application about the minor child as per: Annexure "G" (signed by guardi Attested photocopy of passport, if any, of the guardian

years of age and want to travel abroad to visit my children. What documents do I need to submit to escape Police Verific

cannot be issued without police verification in your case. But if you either produce copy of child's (Age>18) passport, who is st ge having parent's name) as an additional document along with your application or apply under the Tatkaal scheme, you can on post police verification basis.

f Government/PSU/Statutory Body

e Verification done for Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees?

ment/Public Sector/Statutory body employees can be issued passport without police verification, if they submit Identity Certifica nnexure "B" as an additional document along with the application form. They can be issued a passport on post police verifica mit No Objection Certificate (NOC) (as per Annexure "M") as an additional document along with the application form.

olice Verification (PV) possible in case of change in name of Govt./PSU/Statutory Body employees? If yes, what do d?

owing documents are required:

ssue of fresh passport: In case of change in name of Govt./PSU/statutory body employees, Pre Police Verification (PV) will b Police Verification (PV) will be done on submission of Tatkaal documents. Reissue of passport: In case of change in name of Govt./PSU/statutory body employees, if the old passport has clear or exe Verification (PV) Report and required documents are submitted No Police Verification (PV) will be done. For list of docu ubmitted please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page.

ers and Directors of Companies which are members of CII, FICCI & ASSOCHAM active member of FICCI. What documents do I need to submit to escape Police Verification?

cannot be issued without police verification in your case. But if you either submit the following additional documents alo on:

Standard Affidavit as per Annexure "I" Verification Certificate as per Annexure "J" under the Tatkaal scheme, you can be issued a passport on post police verification basis

g to Ludhiana, Punjab and am currently studying in Delhi for past two years. I want to apply for a passport. Wi tion be done at my permanent address

g to Jammu & Kashmir and am currently studying in Delhi for past two years. I want to apply for my passport. Wi tion be done at my Permanent address in J&K as well?

erification will be done at both permanent and present address.

rnment Officials

Retired Government official. Can I be issued a passport without Police Verification?

not obtain a passport without police verification. But, if you apply under the Tatkaal scheme or submit "Pension Payment Ord sued on Post police verification basis (i.e. police verification would be done after the issuance of passport).

J&K

g to Jammu & Kashmir and am currently studying in Delhi for past two years. I want to apply for my passport. Wi tion be done at my Permanent address in J&K as well?

erification will be done at both permanent and present address.

esident of Jammu & Kashmir. Can I be issued a passport without Police Verification?

erification will be done before issuance of passport.

Nagaland

esident of Nagaland. Can I be issued a passport without Police Verification?

erification will be done before issuance of passport.

esident of Nagaland. Can I be issued a passport without Police Verification?

erification will be done before issuance of passport.

aving Diplomatic/Official passport and applying for ordinary passport while in service

ice Verification be done for the applicant having Diplomatic/Official passport and applying for ordinary passport while

iven case, Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees can be issued passport without police verification (PV), if Certificate in original as per Annexure "B" as an additional document along with the application form. They can be issued a pas Verification (PV) basis, if they submit No Objection Certificate (NOC) (as per Annexure "M") as an additional document al on form. Else, passport will be issued on pre Police Verification (PV) basis, or post Police Verification (PV) basis - if they scheme.

amily Members of Government/PSU/Statutory body employees

her is an I.A.S officer. Will the police verification be done in my case? If yes, can I escape police verification by subm nts?

ent family members of Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees can be issued passport without police verification, i wing additional documents along with their application form:

Identity Certificate" in original as per Annexure "B" (of dependent). Standard Affidavit as per Annexure "I".

n also be issued passport on post police verification basis, if they apply under the Tatkaal scheme.

ho have changed their names in past

hanged my name from Ashim Arora to Sachin Arora. Can it create a problem during Police Verification?

d to attach the required documents along with your application form. For list of documents to be submitted please click on d" link on Home page.

ho are convicted or court case is pending against them

case is pending against me. Can a passport be issued to me after successful Police Verification?

minal case is pending against you in any court, you can be issued a passport subject to the condition that you enclose a writte by the court allowing you to travel abroad. Normally a short validity passport valid for one year is issued, subject to cond ed in the Court order as per GSR 570 (E) dated 25 August, 1993.

een convicted by court last year. Can a passport be issued to me after successful Police Verification?

ject to Assistant Passport Officer's (APOs) approval.

ho have been repatriated/deported

Indian Citizen by origin and have been repatriated from Bangladesh. I want to apply for a passport. Can I be issued police verification?

port cannot be issued without Police Verification in your case.

Verification (PV) Related Queries

status on the website indicates that my police verification is "incomplete". What does this mean?

most likely problem lice report says you have been at your current address for less than a year. We need clearance from all your previous addresse r, to be able to clear your file for issue of a passport. The other reports are still awaited. You may be required to follow

ce report may have some inadequacies, or the police authorities may not have properly completed some columns. These are n to the police for completion. You may like to follow up with the police for speedier

ce report might have said that some of the documents requested by the police to satisfy themselves regarding the period of you may not have been produced. In such cases, we write to you for clarifications and thereafter process your ions pending at this office due to incomplete police reports, or non-receipt of police reports, can also be cleared under the new cants submit any 3 of the 15 listed documents. Post-issue police verification will be done in such cases.

status shows that my police report is "adverse". How should I proceed further?

most likely problem lice report says you do not reside at the address given, or that you were not available for police verification. If you feel that the ry and that you normally reside at that address, you can write to us (giving your file number) and request a re-verification. We olice report from the re-verification, to be able to process your file further, and clear it for issue of

ce report might have said that you have unresolved criminal cases against you. In such cases, your file cannot be cleared, unless by the courts. If the cases have indeed been dismissed, you could submit a copy of the court order and approach us for a re-verifi We will refer your file to the police, along with a copy of the cou pt of a clear report from the police, your file will be processed further for issue of a passport. In cases where the information case had not been disclosed, a penalty will be imposed and the file cleared after the payment of penalty.

e verification done before issuance of passport under the Tatkaal scheme?

ce verification is not done before issuance of passport under the Tatkaal scheme. In case of the Tatkaal scheme, police verificatio ost police verification basis as per the case. I get a passport on Post police verification under the Normal

et a passport without police verification?

ng on whether an application is for issue of fresh passport or reissue of passport, Passport Office shall decide whether Police V for issuance of passport to you. In most cases of issue of fresh passport, pre-police verification would be required, exc ment servants on submission of 'Identity Certificate' as per Annexure 'B', or minors whose parent(s) hold valid passport etc. In m depending on records available in the Passport Office system, police verification would not be required or only post police be required, exceptions being Reissue of passport in lieu of lost passport or complete change uance of passport on Post police verification under the Normal scheme depends on case to case basis. The applicant has t al required documents along with the application form to get the passport on No or Post police verification basis. To chec al documents to be submitted along with the application, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page.

ll I know the type of police verification on which I will be issued passport?

e of police verification on which the applicant would be issued passport depends on the decision taken by Passport Office. But mit the additional required documents along with the application form to get the passport on No or post police verifi k the list of additional documents to be submitted along with the application,please click on "Documents Required" link on Hom

ed to be personally present for Police Verification?

would be advisable that you should be physically present at the time of Police Verification.

n I prove that I have stayed at my present address for more than a year during Police Verification?

an submit the Address Proof to prove that you have stayed at your present address for more tha w the list of documents which can be produced as Address Proof, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page.

pplying for a fresh passport, the applicant mentions his paying guest address as present address in the application nt shifts to another address before police verification, what should he/she do?

should intimate the Department In charge of Police Station.

tayed at three different addresses during last one year. Will the police verification be done at all the places?

police verification will be done at all the three addresses where the applicant has resided in the last one year. The previous addr es where the applicant has resided for the longest period during last one year.

Q: The status on the website says that my passport has been "Delivered". But I haven't received it yet. What do I do? A: Please contact the Passport Seva Call Centre at 1800-258-1800 (Toll Free) or write to us through accessing the "Feedback/Grievance" link the on Home Page. Q: If I know which Post Office is supposed to deliver my passport? Can I collect my passport personally from the Post Office? A: The Postman will deliver your passport at your home. To get the passport in person , take the approval from Assistant Passport Officer(APO). Q: Do I need to be personally present to collect the passport from the postman or any of my family members can collect it on my behalf? A: Any family member of the applicant (who is in blood relation), can collect the passport from the postman by showing his/her identity card. However, it would be advisable if you collect the passport personally. Q: How do I collect my passport, which was sent to me by post, returned undelivered ? A: The postal authorities return passports dispatched to the applicant by post when the addressee is not available at the given address. In such cases applicant has to collect from Passport Office.

Q: Who can help me in solving my queries? A: You can ask your queries at the following places: 1. By visiting our website www.passportindia.gov.in 2. By calling call centre at 1800-258-1800 3. By visiting Helpdesk at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)

Q: Can I ask the status of my application by calling the Call centre? A: Yes, you can check the status of your application by calling at call centre at 1800-258-1800. You can talk to our call centre executive or punch your file no. into the IVR system to check your application status. Q: Can a call centre executive apply passport on my behalf? A: No, call centre executive cannot apply for passport on your behalf. Q: What all things do I need to know, before calling Passport Call Centre to check my application status? A: You need to provide your File Number and Date of Birth to our call centre executive to check your application status. Q: I have lost my passport. Can I file a complaint about the same through call centre? A: No, you cannot file a complaint for loss of passport through call centre. Loss of passport should be immediately reported to the nearest Police Station and to the Passport Office or Indian Mission, if abroad. Q: Can I enquire about my nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) by calling call centre executive? A: Yes, you can locate your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) by calling the call centre at 1800-258-1800. You can also visit online website www.passportindia.gov.in to locate your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Q: Can I reply to a show cause notice received by calling a call centre executive? A: No, show cause notice cannot be replied by calling a call centre executive. An applicant has to reply the show cause notice in written or typed and send to the respective authority by post or personally meet officer concerned. Q: Can I lodge a grievance through call centre? A: Yes, you can lodge a grievance by calling a call centre executive at 1800-258-1800. A grievance can also be lodged on our website www.passportindia.gov.in or by visiting helpdesk at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).

the fee for issue of Tatkaal Passport? the fee details, please click on "Fee Calculator" link on Home page.

g will it take to get a Tatkaal passport?

cessful application form submission, with final status as "Granted", you can expect your passport to be dispatched as follows: Type of Police Verification Police Verification is not required Police Verification is required on a PostExpected Time To Dispatch Passport

tion

Within one working day excluding the date of submission of application.

On third working day excluding the date of submission of application - w

Passport Issuance basis

waiting for the Police Verification Report.

n complex cases, such as adoption, application on behalf of a minor from single parent, major change in name, duplicate passp ocumentation, the processing time will be approximately 30 days excluding the date of submission of application. Mandator erification cases such as J&K and Nagaland subjects would also need additional processing time. sue of passport is subject to data check in the system and finding no adverse entry/report.

ply for passport under the Tatkaal scheme?

authority for the issuance of passport under the Tatkaal scheme lies with the passport office. But there are list of applicants passport under the Tatkaal scheme. To check the list of applicants who cannot apply under the Tatkaal scheme, please refe Click Here to download Instruction Booklet.

port booklet is damaged. I want to go abroad on urgent basis. What should I do?

our passport has been damaged but recognizable, i.e. passport number is readable, name is legible and photo is intact, then you f passport under the Tatkaal scheme. But, if passport has been damaged beyond recognition, then you cannot apply unde In that case, you need to visit Passport Officer (PO) at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) to get the passport on urgent ba

ts have passport with adverse Police Verification Report or they have a criminal background, can passport be issued to asis?

ases, minors can be issued passport under the Tatkaal scheme subject to Passport Officer's (POs) approval.

aland/Jammu and Kashmir citizen apply for the passport under the Tatkaal scheme?

licant is staying at Bangalore from last two years and permanent address is in Kerala. Can he/she endorse his/her instead of present address in the passport?

present address will be endorsed on the passport not the permanent address.

ayed at three different addresses during last one year. Will the police verification be done at all the places?

police verification will be done at all the three addresses where the applicant has resided in the last one year. The previous addr s where the applicant has resided for the longest period during last one year.

pplying for fresh passport, the applicant mentions his paying guest address as present address in the application t shifts to another address before police verification, what should he/she do?

hould intimate the Department In charge of Police Station.

elf employed person and have recently shifted to Bangalore from Delhi. I want to apply for passport on Tatkaal basis y address proof. What should I do? proof of address to apply for

is mandatory to submit f of Address attach one of the following documents:

Water/Telephone (landline or post paid mobile bill)/Electricity bill/Statement of running bank account (Scheduled Comm

xcluding Regional Rural banks and local area banks)/Income Tax Assessment Order/Election Commission Photo ID card/Ga ill/Certificate from Employer of reputed and widely known companies on letter head. pouse's passport copy (First and last page including family details), (provided the applicant's present address matches the addre n the spouse's passport) arent's passport copy, in case of minors (First and last page) pplicant's current and valid ration card

any applicant submits only ration card as proof of address, it should be accompanied by one more proof of address out s.

lly retarded person wants to go to abroad for treatment. He does not have any address proof. Will he be able to get pass at is the procedure?

icant has to apply for passport and submit parent's/legal guardian's address proof along with his/her date of birth proof. Passp o the applicant subject to Assistant Passport Officer's (APOs) approval.

a Kendra (PSK) Working Hours

e the timings of Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)? Also, what are the lunch timings?

ngs of Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) are as follows:

Working Monday-Friday Working :30 AM - 4:30 PM oken :30 AM - 4:00 PM unch :30 PM - 2:00 PM

y Passports

cases Short validity passport (SVP) is issued? What documents are required to be submitted?

lidity passport (SVP) is issued in following cases:

n case of urgency, students can be issued a SVP on production of admission letters if they are to appear in examinations, suc AT etc. Such applications can also be processed under the Tatkaal Scheme, if they are accompanied by verification certificate a nd proof of urgency is furnished to the Passport Office(PO). here are instances of non-delivery of passports to the applicants due to loss in transit in the post offices. In case of urgency, a sued to the applicant, the validity to be extended to full term on completion of the formalities. ndians residing abroad and visiting India for a short period: SVP can be issued immediately, valid for one year, on production of o the country from which the applicant came and/or a document of identity such as driving license, Green Card, employment p ecurity card, health card, labour card etc. indicating the applicant's identity and nationality. If the application is for issue of dupli n lieu of damaged passport, the damaged passport itself may be accepted as proof of identity provided the personal particulars gible. a criminal case is pending against the applicant in any Court, he/she can be issued a passport subject to the condition t ermission granted by the court allowing the applicant to travel abroad is enclosed. Normally a SVP valid for one year is issue

onditions if any, mentioned in the Court order as per GSR 570 (E) dated 25 August, 1993.

ll be the validity of passport if I apply for renewal of Short Validity Passport (SVP)?

dity of passport would be decided by Assistant Passport Officer (APO), if you apply for renewal of Short Validity Passport (SVP

h incorrect details printed

t details have been printed on my passport. What should I do?

nd any mistake/error in the particulars printed in the passport booklet and the application form you submitted, please return the y rectification. Any additional fees required to be paid would depend solely on Assistant Passport Officer (APO)/PIA's decision sentation of facts, then penalty could also be , applicants are requested to apply online which will ensure that the passports are delivered without any typographical errors sin mselves fed the data.

ould be the value of the Stamp paper on which the various affidavits are to be executed?

avit needs to be prepared on non-judicial stamp paper of minimum value.

her is old and infirm. She cannot come to the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Can I apply for her through

ery busy executive. Can my office boy submit the application on my behalf?

e new system it is mandatory for all applicants to be physically present while submitting the passport application form wheth Seva Kendra or at the District Passport Cell (DPC).

an E-Passport?

ndia was issuing e-passports to those eligible for diplomatic passports. These carry a microchip with a photograph of the bearer information. The e-passport program will eventually extend to ordinary passports.

e Special Passports?

o issues special passports to citizens of India who intend to travel to Bangladesh or Sri Lanka. These passports are only good for destination country. The government ceased issuing Indo-Bangladesh passports in 2006, although those already issued are usab n dates. These passports allow travel to Bangladesh without requiring a visa, which ordinary passport-holders need to obtain. Old and Current Systems at a Glance Old System 7 to 14 days 30 to 45 days 48 345 4 1 day** 3 days** 77 (including 2 to 3 in each city) 1250 7 Current System

em of Passport Issuance Process

taken for Tatkaal Passport

taken for Normal Passport Passport outlets. public dealing counters at passport dealing hours per working day for expansion of

passport Limited. Could be time consuming.

Will be expanded in keeping w

s/counters to submit passport 2 to 3 hours in crowded conditions

demand. 45 minutes in decent and conditions.

ng period ation

ntability of employees

Accountability is there but this is difficult to monitor Complete digital signatures tr across the country in a manual system. issuance process Limited Only through website. Limited features.

ng of employees

Effective training including in pu

mation for applicants

Effective through national call internet. Immediate 100% on computers Online

ance handling through service level Limited , on-line & mail. 80% manual involving paperwork By post - time consuming Limited

work

nge of information with police

gement Information System

Wide range of information management for effective contro Expected Time of Passport Dispatch

Type of Police Verification Police Verification required is not

Within one working day excluding the date of submission of application.

Police Verification is required on On third working day excluding the date of submission of application - without waiting f a Post-Passport Issuance basis Verification Report. Police Verification required is not On third working day excluding the date of submission of application.

Police Verification is required on On third working day excluding the date of submission of application - without waiting f a Post-Passport Issuance basis Verification Report.

Within three working days of receipt of a "Recommendatory" Police Verification Report Police Verification is required on the Police Department. This does not include date of receipt of "Recommendatory" Police Pre-Passport Issuance basis Report (PVR).

mplex cases, such as adoption, application on behalf of a minor from single parent, major change in name, duplicate passport, doubtful documentation, the processing time will b xcluding the date of submission of application. Mandatory Pre Police Verification cases such as J&K and Nagaland subjects would also need additional processing time. f passport is subject to data check in the system and finding no adverse entry/ report.

Online Registration & Appointment: The online appointment system has been introduced to ensure avoiding congestion at the Passport Seva Kendras and cutting down waiting time for applicants. Appointments are allotted according to handling capacity of a Passport Seva Kendra and are based on an electronic queue

management system. Following steps may be followed to obtain and manage appointment:

Step 1: Visit the website www.passportindia.gov.in ; Step 2: Register user name and assign a password; Step 3: Log in using your user name and password; Step 4: Fill online application form as the case may be and submit online (alternatively, download e-form, fill up and upload the same at the portal). Uploading of documents is optional; Step 5: Take printout of Application Reference Number (ARN); Step 6: Now take an appointment to visit the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (appointments are released region-wise). It is advised that the citizen should be ready with step 1 to 5 above before the appointment release time. As soon as appointments are released (please see regionwise timings), they should click on manage appointment button to book the appointment as per available slots. In case you are not able to obtain appointment for a particular date, you may revisit the portal to take appointment again; Step 7: Visit the Passport Seva Kendra with requisite original documents and their photocopies. Photograph is not required. The list of requisite documents is available at the website; Step 8: Some categories are allowed as Walk-in applicants and obtaining online appointment is not mandatory. [Please see below: - Walk-in Appointments with online Registration] Step 9: In case you are unable to secure appointment or dont fall under Walk-in category, you may visit concerned Passport Office for submission of manual passport application form. [Please see below: - Manual Submission of Applications] 3) Walk-in appointments with online Registration: In order to facilitate submission of passport applications at Passport Seva Kendras, some types of services such as Tatkaal and issuance of Police Clearance Certificates and some categories of applicants such as senior citizens, minors and differently-abled persons are allowed to submit their duly registered online applications with ARN number as Walk-in applicants. Applicants falling under these categories are also required to register their applications online and obtain ARN number and visit the nearest Passport Seva Kendra at their convenience (no prior appointment required). In addition, applicants should also refer to any advisory issued by the concerned Passport Offices from time to time.

4) Manual submission of applications: i) As an interim measure, in order to address rising demand for passport services, Passport Offices may also allow manual submission of applications at Passport Offices. Applicants should refer to advisories and notifications issued by concerned Passport Office from time to time. ii) The procedures and modalities for acceptance of applications for passport services are as under: iii) For manual submission of passport application form, an applicant is required to visit Passport Office in person with duly filled in passport application form, a complete set of self-attested copy of requisite documents and original thereof along with a recent colour photograph of the size 4.5 cm X 3.5 cm with white background. Applicant will have to submit application with requisite fees. Further details as well as the prescribed application form could be obtained from the website: www.passportindia.gov.in . iv) Manual submission of applications will be accepted by Passport Offices until further orders. 5) Passport applicants- General Obligations: i) Applicants having confirmed appointments and who are unable to visit PSK due to some reason, are advised to reschedule/cancel their appointments at least 15 hours prior to the scheduled date/time . In case of no show of the applicant on the scheduled day & time, the data captured for that applicant will be deleted from the system including ARN number and such applicants will be required to fill up the data again for obtaining fresh appointments. ii) Statutorily, all passport applicants are required to submit their applications with correct information and valid and genuine documents. As per provisions of the Passports Act, 1967, an applicant should not furnish any false information or suppress any material information with a view to obtaining passport or travel document. Any such action shall be punishable with imprisonment for a term which may extend to two years with fine which may extend to Rs. 5000/- or both.
Passport Services Overview Q: What are the various passport services and which form has to be filled in?

A: The various passport services are: 1. Issue of Fresh Passport: You can apply for fresh passport if you have never had a passport. 2. Reissue of Passport: You can apply for reissue of passport if you want another passport in lieu of an existing passport for any of the following reasons: o Change in Existing personal Particulars. o Validity Expired within 3 years/ Due to Expire. o Exhaustion of Pages. o Damaged Passport. o Lost Passport. o Validity Expired more than 3 years ago. 3. Miscellaneous Service: Issue of Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Q: What types of passports are issued in India? A: Following three types of passports are issued in India: 1. Ordinary Passport: An ordinary passport appears with a blue cover, and consists of 36 or 60 pages. It is valid for 10 years from the date of issue and can be renewed for another 10 years. An Indian citizen can use this passport for ordinary vacation or business travel. 2. Diplomatic Passport: Members of the national government, including diplomats, administrative officials, and official public couriers, use a maroon-covered diplomatic passport. 3. Official Passport: Ordinary citizens travelling on official government business carry an official passport, with a white cover. Q: How do I apply for a passport in the new system? A: For issue of fresh passport and reissue of passport, you need to fill the application form online via eForm Submission (preferred) or via Online Form Submission. You can also apply in person at DPC for fresh passport. For Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) also you need to fill the Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Application Form online via e-Form Submission (preferred) or via Online Form Submission. Under the new system it is mandatory for all applicants, including infants, to be physically present at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Minor Q: What is the definition of minor for issue of passport? A: Applicants less than 18 years of age are considered as minor for issuance of passport.

Q: I have a one-month old baby? Does the baby require a separate passport or his/her name can be endorsed in one of the parents passport? A: Endorsement of child's name in parent's passports is not allowed anymore. As per the amended law, a minor should have a separate passport. Q: In case of minor's passport, whose father is abroad, is it mandatory to obtain father's consent to apply for the child's passport? If so, what is the procedure? A: If parent(s) of the minor holds a valid passport, then attested photocopy of passport needs to be submitted along with the application form. Spouse name should be endorsed on the parent's passport. If parent(s) hold a valid passport, but spouse name is not endorsed, then they must get the spouse name added in their passport. For this, they have to apply for reissue of passport and get the specified change done in personal particulars. Q: We are planning to apply for passports for our kids (minors). Is it necessary that my name should be included in my wife's passport? A: If either parent of a minor holds a valid passport with spouse name endorsed, passport will be issued to the minor without any police verification. Original passport of parent(s) should be presented for the verification of particulars. If parent(s) hold a valid passport, but spouse name is not endorsed, then they must get the spouse name added in their passport. For this, they have to apply for reissue of passport and get the specified change done in personal particulars. Thus, it is necessary that spouse name should be endorsed on the parent's passport. Q: Is it necessary that both parents should have passport before applying for their child's passport? A: It is not necessary that both parents should have a passport before applying for their child's passport. The advantage of either parent holding a valid passport with spouse name endorsed is that it exempts their child from the Police Verification process. Q: I am a minor who is 16 years old. Is it possible for me to obtain a full validity passport of 10 years? A: Minors between 15 to 18 years of age can apply either for a 10-year validity passport or they can apply for a passport, which is valid till they attain the age of 18 years. Fee for a 10-year validity passport is higher than fee for a passport, which is valid till they attain the age of 18 years. A 10-year validity passport cannot be issued to applicants without police verification on submission of parent's passport. If passport is required on an urgent basis, they can apply under Tatkaal scheme.

Q: What would be the validity of a minor's passport? A: The validity of a minor's passport is restricted to five years or till they attain the age of 18, whichever is earlier. But the minors with age between 15 to 18 years can apply either for a 10-year validity passport or for a passport which is valid till they attain the age of 18 years. Different fees are applicable depending upon which category they are applying for. Q: Who can apply for my minor daughter's passport in India as I am on ship at Singapore as second engineer? A: Either parent/guardian can apply for minor's passport. You would however need to get Annexure H duly attested by the Consular section of the nearest Indian Mission. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: Is it true that passport applications for minors under 18 require consent of either both parents or legal guardian? A: It is necessary that either parent/legal guardian should give their consent while applying for minor's passport. Following documents have to be submitted in the given cases: S.No. Case Passport application of a minor with consent of both parents Applied by Legal Guardian Minors with single parent (One parent deceased) Applied by one parent/guardian when consent of one or both parents is not possible Parents are separated but not divorced Documents to be submitted Annexure "H"

1.

2.

Annexure "H" Annexure "H"

3.

Annexure "G"

4.

5.

Annexure "C"

6.

Single parent of the child born out of wedlock

Annexure "C"

Q: My spouse is living in another country. How do I get his/her signature for consent while applying for my child's passport? A: Consent of the spouse, who is abroad, is required for submitting the application of their child. It should be in the form of a Sworn Affidavit duly attested by the Indian Embassy/Consulate abroad (as per Annexure "H"). To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: I want to apply for my child's passport. Are signatures of both parents mandatory on Annexure H to be submitted along with the application? What if my spouse is refusing to sign the form? A: Yes, the signature of both the parents is mandatory on Annexure H to be submitted along with the application as it signifies that both parents are giving consent for the issuance of passport to the child. Annexure H is the declaration of applicant's parents or guardian for the issuance of passport to the minor. If either of the parents is not giving consent, then the parent applying for the minor's passport needs to submit Annexure G. To see the format of Annexure H and G, please click on "Annexures/Affidavits" link on Home page. Q: I wish to apply for a passport for my child who is 12 months old. Can I apply for a 60 pages booklet? A: No, you cannot apply for a 60 pages passport booklet for your 12-months old child. Only 36 pages passport booklet are issued to minors. Q: If parents have passport with adverse Police Verification Report or they have a criminal background, can passport be issued to minor on an urgent basis? A: In such cases, minors can be issued passport under Tatkaal scheme subject to the approval of the government official at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Q: I want to apply for my minor child's passport. I hold a valid passport but spouse name is not endorsed. Can I apply for my child's passport without submitting my passport copy? A: If parent(s) of the minor holds a valid passport, then attested photocopy of passport needs to be submitted along with the application form. Spouse name should be endorsed on the parent's passport. If parent(s) hold a valid passport, but spouse name is not endorsed, then they must get the spouse name added in their passport. For this, they have to apply for reissue of passport and get

the specified change done in personal particulars. Senior Citizen Q: I am a pensioner or have a senior's card; can I have a senior's passport? A: Separate senior's passport is not issued to a senior citizen. They can apply for an ordinary passport with a validity of 10 years. Senior Citizens can be issued a passport on post police verification basis if they submit copy of child's (Age>18) passport, who is staying abroad (with page having parent's name) as an additional document along with their application form. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: What benefits do senior citizens get for issuance of passport? A: Senior Citizens can be issued a passport on post police verification basis if they submit copy of child's (Age>18) passport, who is staying abroad (with page having parent's name) as an additional document along with their application form. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Students Q: I am a student staying away from my parents. Where do I apply for a passport and what proof of residence do I have to furnish? A: You can apply at any Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) under a Passport Office (PO) in the state of your current or permanent address. For instance, if you are a student staying in Rohtak (which falls under the jurisdiction of Passport Office (PO), Chandigarh) and your parents are staying in Hissar, which also falls under the jurisdiction of Passport Office (PO), Chandigarh, you may apply at any Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) under Passport Office (PO) Chandigarh. Please indicate your hostel address/the place where you are staying in Rohtak as present address and your parent's address as permanent address. And in case you are studying and staying in Bangalore you may either apply at any of the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) under Passport Office (PO) Bangalore or under Passport Office (PO) Chandigarh. For proof of residence of your hostel/place of stay, you should provide a Bonafide Letter from authorized signatory of college (On official letter head of UGC recognized College). Employees of Government/PSU/Statutory Body Q: Is Identity Certificate mandatory for Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees?

OR Can a government employee apply as an ordinary citizen without submitting the additional documents? A: For issuance of a fresh passport, Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees need to submit either Identity Certificate in original as per Annexure "B" or No Objection Certificate (NOC) as per Annexure "M" as an additional document along with the application form. If he/she submits Annexure "B", passport will be issued without police verification and if he/she submits Annexure "M", passport will be issued on post police verification basis. For reissue of passport, Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees need to submit No Objection Certificate (NOC) as per Annexure "M" as an additional document along with the application form. Q: What benefits do government employees and retired government employees get for issuance of passport? A: Government Employees: Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees can be issued passport without police verification, if they submit Identity Certificate in original as per Annexure "B" as an additional document along with the application form. They can be issued a passport on post police verification basis, if they submit No Objection Certificate (NOC) (as per Annexure "M") as an additional document along with the application form. Retired Government Employees: Retired Government employees can be issued a passport on post police verification basis if they submit Pension Payment Order as an additional document along with the application form. Q: If a Government employee wants to apply for major change in name in passport, is he/she required to submit a leading newspaper cutting? A: If a Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employee wants to make a major change in name, then he/she has to submit the following additional documents: 1. Gazette Notification changing name in applicant's department 2. Fresh ID Certificate in changed name 3. Deed poll/sworn affidavit as per Annexure "E" Hence, a leading newspaper cutting is not required to be submitted. Owner, Partners and Directors of Companies which are members of CII, FICCI & ASSOCHAM Q: I am a Director of a company which is a member of CII, FICCI & ASSOCHAM? What additional documents do I have to submit?

A: To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Citizenship of India (Other than by Birth) Q: Explain citizenship of India by birth, descent, registration, naturalization. A: 1. Citizen of India by birth: You are Citizen of India by birth if you are born in India. 2. Citizen of India by descent: You are Citizen of India by descent if you are born outside India and either of your parents is a citizen of India at the time of your birth. 3. Citizen of India by registration/naturalization: You are Citizen of India by Registration/Naturalization if you have been granted Indian Citizenship by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).

Q: Can an Indian passport be issued to applicants born outside India? A: Indian passport can be issued to the "Citizen of India by Descent" i.e. person born to Indian parent(s) outside India. Dependent Family Members of Government/PSU/Statutory body employees Q: Can dependents of Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees apply for a passport in the normal process without submitting any affidavits? A: Dependent family members of Government/Public Sector/Statutory body employees can be issued passport without police verification, if they submit the following additional documents along with their application form: 1. "Identity Certificate" in original as per Annexure "B" (of dependent) 2. Standard Affidavit as per Annexure "I" Otherwise, passport would be issued to them on pre police verification basis, or post police verification basis - if they apply under Tatkaal scheme. Applicants who have changed their names in past Q: I recently got married/divorced. How do I change my name on my passport? A: To change the name in the passport, you have to apply for a "Reissue" of passport and get the specified change done in the personal particulars. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page.

Q: I am a married lady and want to apply for a fresh passport. I am unable to provide the prescribed marriage certificate or joint affidavit due to marital discord or separation. What should I do? A: Such applicants have to submit an Affidavit sworn before First Class Judicial Magistrate on NonJudicial stamp paper as per specimen provided in Annexure 'K': Section G of the passport instruction booklet. Applicants who are convicted or court case is pending against them Q: What do I do if I have a Court Case against me? A: If a criminal case is pending against you in any court, you can be issued a passport subject to the condition that you enclose a written permission granted by the court allowing you to travel abroad. Normally a short validity passport valid for one year is issued, subject to conditions if any, mentioned in the Court order as per GSR 570 (E) dated 25 August, 1993. Applicants who have been repatriated/deported Q: The applicant has repatriated from abroad at Government cost and wants to apply for a fresh passport. However he/she does not have a proof of refund of repatriation cost to Ministry of External Affairs. What should he/she do? A: He/she should meet the Assistant Passport Officer (APO) at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Validity Expired Q: My passport expired 4 years ago. Can it be reissued? What is the procedure to reissue it? A: You have to fill up the Passport Application Form and apply for "Reissue of Passport". You can submit the filled in application form at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSKwith in the jurisdiction of your Passport Office (PO). You must carry original and self attested photocopy of your expired passport and proof of your address. Fresh police verification is initiated if the passport has expired more than three years ago. Hence, fresh police verification will be required in your case. Q: You have to fill up the Passport Application Form and apply for "Reissue of Passport". You can submit the filled in application form at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSKwith in the jurisdiction of your Passport Office (PO). You must carry original and self attested photocopy of your expired passport and proof of your address. Fresh police verification is initiated if the passport has expired more than three years ago. Hence, fresh police verification will be required in your case.

A: You need to apply for "Reissue" of passport and submit the filled in application form at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)/ A new passport booklet would be issued to you. Q: What are the additional requirements if passport has expired more than three years ago? A: Fresh police verification would take place if you apply for reissue of passport after expiry of old passport more than three years ago. Q: I'm 25 now, but my last passport was issued when I was 15. What should I do? A: You need to apply for "Reissue" of passport Damaged Passport Q: What is the definition of damaged passport? A: Damaged passport is classified further based on the extent of damage, i.e.: 1. Damaged Passport - Passport number is readable, name is legible and Photo is intact 2. Damaged beyond recognition Q: What is the procedure to apply for duplicate passport in case of lost or damaged passport? A: To apply for duplicate passport in case of lost or damaged passport, you have to fill the Passport Application form and apply for "Reissue" of passport. Lost/Stolen Passport Q: What do I do if I lose my passport? A: Loss of passport should be immediately reported to the nearest Police Station and to the Passport Office (PO) or Indian Mission, if abroad. You can apply for "Reissue" of passport at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and submit the required documents along with your passport application form. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: I lost my passport recently. I've applied for a duplicate passport. I want to know if the new passport will have the same number as my old passport, or a new number?

A: The new passport will have a new passport number, with a fresh validity of 10 years. Q: I recently lost my valid passport, but do not have the details. Will it be possible for the Passport Office (PO) to trace the details from your system and give them to me for filling my application form for a duplicate/new passport? A: You need to visit Assistant Passport Officer (APO) at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Q: What can I do if I have lost my passport and have to travel to India urgently due to an emergency like serious illness or death in the family? A: If you have lost your passport during travelling, then you can come to India on the basis of "Emergency Certificate". For the issuance of "Emergency Certificate", you need to contact the respective mission/post of that country. Q: I am an Indian living in abroad. I lost my Indian passport but I don't have photocopy of the same. What should I do? A: Photocopy of the old passport is not a mandatory document to be submitted in case of lost/damaged/stolen passport. It should be produced, if it is available. But you will have to produce, the previous passport details like Passport number, Date of issue, Date of expiry and Place of issue, while filling the passport application form. If you do not have that information, then contact the respective mission/post of that country. Exhaustion of Pages Q: The pages in my passport booklet have exhausted, but it has a validity of 5 years. What is the procedure to apply for new booklet? A: You need to (Mini PSK) apply for "Reissue" of passport. A new passport booklet would be issued to you with a fresh validity of 10 years. an additional booklet/additional pages issued? Q: When OR My passport is nearly full but is valid for another 4 years, is it possible to add extra pages? A: Additional pages are not added to a passport booklet. If the pages in the passport booklet have exhausted, you need to apply for "Reissue" of passport and submit the filled in application form at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)/ A new passport booklet would be issued to you. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please

click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Validity Due to Expire Q: My passport will expire in 2 years. What should I do? A: You can apply for a reissue of passport up to 1 year before the expiry or within three years after the expiry of the existing passport without fresh police verification, provided there is clear police report with respect to your previous passport and there is no adverse entry in the system. You can also apply for reissue of passport if your last passport has expired more than three years ago, but fresh police verification would take place. Q: How long is a passport valid? A: In case of adults, 10-year validity passport would be issued. In case of minors, the validity of passport is restricted to 5 years or till they attain the age of 18, whichever is earlier. But the minors between 15 to 18 years of age can apply either for a 10-year validity passport or for a passport which is valid till they attain the age of 18 years. Different fees are applicable depending upon the category they are applying for Further, most of the embassies who issue visas insist on the passport validity being at least of six months to one year before they consider issuing visas. Accordingly, apply for reissue well before time and save the last minute rush. Q: My passport is about to expire, but I have lost my birth certificate. What are my options? A: If your passport is due to expire, you need to apply for "Reissue" of passport. In case of "Reissue" of passport, you need to submit a date of birth proof, if either your old passport has been lost/damaged or you want to change date of birth details in the passport. Q: What will be the validity of passport if I apply for renewal of a Short Validity Passport (SVP)? A: If you apply for renewal of a Short Validity Passport (SVP), then the validity of passport would be decided by Assistant Passport Officer (APO). Change of Appearance appearance has changed. What should Q: My OR What is the procedure to change photograph of a child in the passport? I do?

A: To change the photograph in the passport, you have to apply for a "Reissue" of passport and get the

specified change done in the personal particulars. Change of Name Q: My name has changed. Can I travel in my previous name? Otherwise how do I change the name on my passport? A: You can travel in your previous name, but it is recommended in this case that your tickets are issued in the same name. To change your name in the passport, you have to apply for a "Reissue" of passport and get the specified change done in personal particulars. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: What documents are required when there is a change in name on account of divorce? A: Following additional documents have to be submitted:i. ii. Court certified copy of Divorce Decree or self attested copy of Divorce certificate. Deed Poll or Sworn Affidavit as per Annexure "E" given in the Passport Instruction booklet.

To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: There is a mistake in the spelling of my name in the passport. What can I do? A: If you find any mistake/error in the particulars printed in the passport booklet as per the application form submitted, please return the passport for necessary rectification. Any additional fees required to be paid would depend solely on Assistant Passport Officer (APO)/Passport Issuing Authority (PIA) decision. If there is a misrepresentation of facts, then penalty could also be imposed. However, applicants are requested to apply online which will ensure that the passports are delivered without any typographical errors since applicants have themselves fed the data. Q: The Surname field is blank on my passport. And my full name is written in the Given Name field. Could anybody tell the process to add the surname to my passport? A: If you find any mistake/error in the particulars printed in the passport booklet as per the application form submitted, please return the passport for necessary rectification. Any additional fees required to be paid would depend solely on Assistant Passport Officers (APOs)/ Passport Officers (POs) decision. If there is a misrepresentation of facts, then penalty could also be imposed. However, applicants are requested to apply online which will ensure that the passports are

delivered without any typographical errors since applicants have themselves fed the data. If you have done a mistake while filling your passport application form i.e. you have filled your full name in the "Given Name" field, then you will have to apply for reissue of passport for change in personal particulars. Q: Explain major and minor change in name? A: Minor change in name - change in name because of spelling discrepancy between passport and documents which phonetically do not result in total change in name. Major change in name - Cases other than minor change in name. Q: If the applicant changes his/her name from: 1. Sandeep Sharma to Sandeep Kumar Sharma 2. Sandeep Kumar to Sandeep Sharma 3. Ritu to Ritu Thakur The above change would be considered a major change or a minor change in name? A: Minor change in name - change in name because of spelling discrepancy between passport and documents which phonetically do not result in total change in name. Major change in name - Cases other than minor change in name. In Case 1 and Case 2, it is a major change in name. In Case 3, if change in name is due to marriage then it falls in the category "Change in name due to marriage". If change in name is not due to marriage, it is a major change in name. Q: Is No Police Verification (PV) possible in case of change in name of Govt./PSU/Statutory Body employees? If yes, what documents are required? A: The documents required are:

Issue of fresh passport: In case of change in name of Govt./PSU/statutory body employees, pre Police Verification (PV) will be done. Post Police Verification (PV) will be done on submission of Tatkaal documents. Reissue of passport: In case of change in name of Govt./PSU/statutory body employees, if the old passport has clear or exempted PV Report and required documents are submitted No Police Verification (PV) will be done.

To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Change of Date of Birth

Q: What is the process to change the date/place of birth in the passport? A: To change the date/place of birth in the passport, you have to apply for a "Reissue" of passport and get the specified change done in the personal particulars. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: I want to get the DOB changed in the passport since there is a typing error. What should I do? A: If you find any mistake/error in the particulars printed in the passport booklet as per the application form you submitted, please return the passport for necessary rectification. Any additional fees required to be paid would depend solely on Assistant Passport Officers (APOs)/ Passport Officers (POs) decision. If there is a misrepresentation of facts, then penalty could also be imposed. However, applicants are requested to apply online as that will ensure that the passports are delivered without any typographical errors since applicants have themselves fed the data. Change of Spouse's Name Q: What is the process to endorse spouse's name on my passport? A: To endorse the spouse's name on your passport, you have to apply for a "Reissue" of passport and get the specified change done in personal particulars. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: What documents are required for deletion of spouse's name on account of divorce? A: Following additional documents have to be submitted:i. ii. Court certified copy of Divorce decree or self attested copy of Divorce certificate. Deed Poll or Sworn Affidavit as per Annexure "E" given in the Passport Instruction booklet.

To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Change of Address Q: How do I change the address on my passport? A: To change the address in the passport, you have to apply for a "Reissue" of passport and get the specified change done in the personal particulars. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please

click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Deletion of ECR Q: My passport was issued at Passport Office, Hyderabad. Presently, I am working at Chandigarh for the last one year. Can I apply for Non-ECR status at Chandigarh and what are the documents required? A: You can apply for deletion of ECR at your nearest PSK/Mini PSK within the jurisdiction of Passport Office (PO), Chandigarh. For this purpose, you need to submit Passport Application form along with the following documents: 1. Original and self attested photocopy of your passport. 2. Documentary proof for any one of the Non-ECR (previously ECNR) categories - if you are eligible for Non-ECR. 3. Proof of present address. To know the list of documents which can be submitted as Address Proof, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: My child has ECR status printed on his passport? What should I do? A: To change the ECR status printed on your child's passport, you have to apply for a "Reissue" of passport and get the specified change done in personal particulars. Change of Place of Birth Q: What is the process to change the date/place of birth in the passport? What are the requirements/documents needed for getting the date of birth changed in the passport? A: If you want to change the date/place of birth in the passport, you need to apply for "Reissue" of passport and submit the filled in application form at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) A new passport booklet would be issued to you. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Change of Gender Q: Can I apply for change in my gender or change in father's/mother's name in the passport? What additional documents do I have to submit?

A: To change your gender or your father's/mother's name, you have to apply for a "Reissue" of passport and get the specified change done in personal particulars. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Change of Father's/Mother's Name Q: Can I apply for change in my gender or change in father's/mother's name in the passport? What additional documents do I have to submit? A: To change your gender or your father's/mother's name, you have to apply for a "Reissue" of passport and get the specified change done in personal particulars. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Issue of Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Q: How do I apply for a Police clearance Certificate (PCC)? A: You can submit the filled in Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Application Form at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)/, within the jurisdiction of your Passport Office (PO). You need to attach the selfattested photocopies of following documents along with the Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Application Form: 1. Passport in original with self-attested photocopy of its first two and last two pages, including ECR/Non-ECR page (previously ECNR) and the page of observation (if any), made by Passport Issuing Authority and validity extension page, if any, in respect of short validity passport. 2. Proof of Present Address (if address is different from the one mentioned on passport). Q: In how much time will Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) be issued? A: Please refer the table below to determine the time required for issuing Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) in various cases: Police Verification Report (PVR)/ Observation in System

S.No.

Service Levels

1.

Police Verification Report in respect of the existing passport is clear and there is no

Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) will be issued on the same day at PSK/ Mini PSK.

subsequent adverse entry in the system a) Police Verification was not required when the passport was issued as the applicant was then a minor and has now become an adult b) Police Verification was not required when the passport was issued as the applicant was a dependent of a Government employee 2. c) Police Verification process could not be completed at the time of issuance of passport due to various reasons d) Applicant's present address is different from that mentioned in the passport e) Any other such cases where passport was issued without police verification Q: What is the procedure to apply for Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) if passport was issued from another Passport office/Indian Mission? A: If you are in India, you can submit the filled in Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Application Form at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)/, within the jurisdiction of your Passport Office. If you are abroad, you need to contact the respective Indian mission/post of that country. You need to attach the selfattested photocopies of the following documents along with the Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Application Form: 1. Passport in original with self-attested photocopy of its first two and last two pages, including ECR/Non-ECR page (previously ECNR), the page of observation (if any) made by Passport Issuing Authority, and validity extension page, if any, in respect of short validity passport 2. Proof of Present Address (if address is different from the one mentioned on passport). Q: What is the validity of Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)? Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) will be issued only after completion of police verification process. After PVR is received, Passport Office (PO) will inform the applicant through e-mail/ letter. Applicant needs to come to the Passport Office (PO) with his/her passport to collect Police Clearance Certificate (PCC). Country for which Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is being issued will be stamped on the passport.

A: There is no validity specified for Police Clearance Certificate (PCC). However, if the particular country asks for a specific validity, then you need to meet Assistant Passport Officer (APO) at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) for the same. Q: Can Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) be issued for more than one country through one application form? A: Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) can only be issued for one country through one application form. Q: What is the age limit for getting the Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)? A: There is no age limit specified for getting the Police Clearance Certificate. Q: Are minor citizens required to apply for Police Clearance Certificate? A: Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) can be issued to minors, if a country asks for the same. Issue/ Reissue of Diplomatic/Official Passport Q: I am preparing for official travel. How do I obtain my diplomatic, official or regular no-fee passport? A: You need to fill the Diplomatic/Official Passport Application form. Normally applications for diplomatic and official passports are entertained only at the Consular, Passport and Visa (CPV) Division, Patiala House, New Delhi. However you can also choose to apply at any Passport Office if you reside outside the National Capital Region. Please submit the following documents along with the application form: 1. Original safe custody certificate of valid ordinary passport (if held) from your office. 2. If Diplomatic/Official passport previously held by the applicant were kept in the safe custody of the Ministry of External Affairs, the original certificate should be enclosed. 3. Diplomatic/Official/Ordinary passport which is around 10 years old or more (from the date of issue) must be submitted with the application for cancellation. 4. Official retiring in less than six months from the date of application, is required to give an undertaking from his/her Tatkaal Related am travelling very soon. How can I get a passport urgently? Q: I OR have to travel to the UK next week on a company assignment. I don't have a passport. Can I get a

new passport under the Tatkaal Scheme? A: You can apply under the Tatkaal scheme, if you are eligible and have to pay the additional Tatkaal fee of Rs.1, 500. You must submit a Verification Certificate (as per Annexure "F") or three out of 15 documents along with Standard Affidavit (as per Annexure "I"). To check the eligibility under the Tatkaal scheme, please refer Section D: Table 2 "List of Applicant Categories and Documents to be submitted" of the instruction booklet. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: Can I apply for a passport under the Tatkaal scheme? A: The final authority of the issuance of passport under the Tatkaal scheme lies with the Passport Office. But, there are list of applicants who cannot apply for passport under the Tatkaal scheme. To check the list of applicants who cannot apply under the Tatkaal scheme, please refer instruction booklet. Click Here to download Instruction Booklet. Q: I have submitted my passport under the normal procedure, but now I need my passport urgently. Can I convert my application to a Tatkaal application? A: You need to visit Assistant Passport Officer (APO) at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Q: Is Tatkaal Passport Process is same as Normal Passport Process? A: Under the Tatkaal scheme, an applicant needs to submit additional documents and additional fees along with his/her application form. Also, police verification will be done after the issuance of passport. To check the list of additional documents, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page and to check the fee structure, please click on "Fee Calculator" link on Home page. Emigration Check Required (ECR) Related Q: I have a passport with ECR status printed on it. What does this mean? A: Emigration clearance is required for employment in the following countries (18 in total): United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Malaysia, Libya, Jordan, Yemen, Sudan, Brunei, Afghanistan, Indonesia, Syria, Lebanon, Thailand, and Iraq. ECR passport holders taking up employment in the above mentioned list of 18 countries require emigration clearance from the office of the Protector of Emigrants (POE) before leaving India; otherwise, they will be stopped from traveling at the port of exit. Please Click Here to download the instruction booklet.

ECR passport holders traveling abroad for a purpose other than employment, to any of the list of 18 countries, will be allowed to leave the country on production of valid passport, valid visa and return ticket at the immigration counters of an international airport in India. Q: What are the categories eligible for Non-ECR status and what documents do they have to submit? A: To view the complete list of Non-ECR categories and the documents to be submitted, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: My passport was issued at Passport Office, Hyderabad. Presently I am working in Chandigarh for the last one year. Can I apply for Non-ECR status at Chandigarh and what are the documents required? A: You can apply for deletion of ECR at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)/ within the jurisdiction of Passport Office, Chandigarh. For this purpose, you need to submit Passport Application form along with the following documents: 1. Original and self attested photocopy of your passport. 2. Documentary proof of any one of the Non-ECR (previously ECNR) categories - if you are eligible for Non-ECR. Proof of present address. To view the list of documents that can be submitted as address proof, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: I don't have Non-ECR status in my passport. Can I get it on the basis of my provisional matriculation or above certificate issued by the University/Board concerned? A: You need to apply for Reissue of passport for deletion of ECR. A new passport booklet (without having the "ECR" status printed on its last page) will be dispatched to you. You are entitled to NonECR status if you possess qualification of Matriculation or above. You can get Non-ECR status on the basis of provisional matriculation certificate if the mark sheets of all semesters of your course are available with you. To check the complete list of Non-ECR categories, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: I am a salaried person and income tax is deducted from salary. What are the documents I need to submit for Non-ECR status? A: Following documents have to be submitted for Non-ECR (previously ECNR) status: 1. Proof of assessment of income tax and actual payment of income tax for last one year; or 2. Income Tax returns statement (with income tax being paid by the applicant) for last one

year that is stamped by income tax authorities and a copy of the PAN card. For complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: I have a passport with ECR status. Is emigration clearance required if I want to visit a country other than the list of 18 countries mentioned in the instruction booklet? A: No, emigration clearance is not required, if you want to visit a country other than the list of 18 countries mentioned in the instruction booklet. ECR passport holders travelling abroad for purpose other than employment, to any of the list of 18 countries, will be allowed to leave the country on production of valid passport, valid visa and return ticket at the immigration counters of an international airport in India. ECR passport holders taking up employment in the list of 18 countries require emigration clearance from the office of the Protector of Emigrants (POE) before leaving India; otherwise, they will be stopped from traveling at the port of exit. Q: I have a passport with ECR status and have an employment visa on it. Do I require emigration clearance? A: ECR passport holders taking up employment in the list of 18 countries mentioned in the instructions of passport application form require emigration clearance from the office of the Protector of Emigrants (POE) before leaving India; otherwise, they will be stopped from travelling at the port of exit. A passport holder having employment visa in passport does not require clearance from POE when they go back after a short visit to India, else emigration clearance is required. Q: My child has ECR status printed on his passport? What should I do? A: To change the ECR status printed on your child's passport, you have to apply for a "Reissue" of passport and get the specified change done in personal particulars. Q: I have ECR status printed on my passport. I want to go to Malaysia urgently. What is the procedure I need to follow? A: At present Emigration control is exercised by the Ministry of Overseas Indian Affairs, through Protector of Emigrants (POE) under the Emigration Act, 1982. Emigration clearance is required for employment in the following countries (18 in total): United Arab Emirates (UAE), Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA), Qatar, Oman, Kuwait, Bahrain, Malaysia, Libya, Jordan, Yemen, Sudan, Brunei, Afghanistan, Indonesia, Syria, Lebanon, Thailand, and Iraq.

If you are going to Malaysia for purpose other than employment, you will be allowed to leave the country on production of valid passport, valid visa and return ticket at the immigration counters of an international airport in India. If you are taking up employment in Malaysia, you require emigration clearance from the office of the Protector of Emigrants (POE) before leaving India; otherwise, they will be stopped from travelling at the port of exit. For further clarification refer website www.moia.gov.in. Other Service Related Queries Q: Can I apply for services at a Passport Office other than the Passport Office where my previous passport was issued? A: You can apply at any Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)/, within the jurisdiction of your Passport Office. If you are a student studying elsewhere, you can also apply at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) of the state of your permanent address. Q: I shifted to Delhi 7 months back from Bangalore. I want to apply for a passport. Can I apply for a passport at Passport Office, Delhi? If so, please let me know the procedure. A: Yes, you can apply at any Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)/ within the jurisdiction of Passport Office (PO), Delhi. For this purpose, you have to fill Passport Application form and submit the required documents. Since, you have stayed at your present address for less than one year, please mention your previous address in Column 3 of the Supplementary form. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page. Q: Can I obtain a new passport if I am in USA on a visitor's visa? A: Visitors from India on B1 /B2 visa who are not normally resident in USA are advised to hold passports which are valid for the period of their visit. In such cases, where it becomes necessary due to unavoidable reasons, passport would be reissued after clearance from the original Passport Issuing Authority. Q: Can I get a passport on Post police verification under the Normal scheme? A: The issuance of passport on Post police verification under the Normal scheme depends on case to case basis. The applicant needs to submit additional documents for the same. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please click on "Documents Required" link on Home page.

Q: I had applied for a passport last year but the same was not issued. I want to again apply for a passport. Should I put a cross against "Fresh Passport" or "Reissue of Passport" in Column 1.1 of the Passport Application form? A: You have to apply for "Fresh Passport", if you were not issued passport last time. You need to provide the previous application details like file number, month & year of applying and name of the Passport Office (PO) where applied, in Column 7.2 of the Passport Application form. Q: Can an Indian passport be issued to applicants born outside India? A: Indian passport can be issued to the "Citizen of India by Descent" i.e. person born to Indian parent(s) outside India.

----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------