How to Apply for an Indian Passport: A Step-by-Step Guide

Indian Passport

Indian citizens can apply for their passport online at the Passport Seva website. All the passport applications are processed online by the Ministry of External Affairs. The process of visa renewal is also done through an online process.

How to Apply for an Indian Passport Online?

Passport Seva log-in

Here are the steps to log in to the Passport Seva website: 

Step 1: Visit the official website of Passport Seva & Click on the ‘APPLY’ section.

Step 2: If you are an existing user, you can login using the user ID and password.

Step 3: If you are a first-time user, you will have to register and create an account. Follow the steps below to register:

Step 4: Click on ‘Register Now’ to register.

Step 5: Enter the login ID & password. Enter the captcha code and click on ‘Register’.

Choosing the Application Type

After logging in, you will have to choose service :

  • Fresh passport/passport reissue
  • Diplomatic passport / Official passport
  • Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)
  • Identity Certificate

Filling the Application Form

Filling in the application form can be done online or offline. To fill in the application form offline, follow the steps given below:

Step 1: Click on the link provided to download the application form in soft copy.

Step 2: A link to an electronic copy of the following forms will be displayed. Download the relevant form based on your application type:

  • Fresh/reissue
  • Police Clearance Certificate
  • Diplomatic/Official
  • Identity Certificate

Step 3: Fill in the application e-form and click on the ‘Upload e-form’ link.

Step 4: Upload the filled-in application form.

You can also complete and submit the application form online. The process can also be started in part and finished at a later time. It is advised to double-check the form before sending it.

Step 5: Schedule, Pay & Book the appointment

After completing the form, you will be required to pay a charge. You can pay the money online or in person at the closest Passport Seva office, where you must also submit your application and any other paperwork. The next step is to make an appointment with the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). You can schedule an appointment using the methods listed below:

Step 1: Go to the ‘Applicant Home’ page & click on the ‘View Saved/Submitted Applications’.

Step 2: The submitted application form details will be displayed. Choose the ARN of the form you have submitted.

Step 3: Click on ‘Pay and Schedule Appointment’ option from the ones provided.

Step 4: Next, choose the mode of payment from among the two provided, viz. Online payment and Challan payment.

The applicant can ‘track the payment status’ on the website after verification when the fees have been successfully paid. A follow-up email is also delivered.

Scheduling the Appointment

Follow the below mentioned steps to schedule an appointment:

Step 1: On the ‘Pay and Schedule Appointment’ page, select the PSK of your choice.

Step 2: Choose a convenient slot from the available dates mentioned. There, the applicant is required to select a PSK based on the available date.

Step 3: Confirm your appointment slot by entering the CAPTCHA code.

Step 4: Next, select ‘Pay and Book the Appointment’

Step 5: Application details such as ARN, name, type of application, the amount that needs to be paid, contact number, and the appointment date will be displayed.

Step 6: If you have chosen to pay online, you will be redirected to the payment gateway.

You will get an appointment number and confirmation once your money has been processed successfully. The information will also be shared by SMS. Copy the application receipt on paper. Today, the SMS is also accepted as appointment proof by all PSKs. 

In case, multiple payments are made for the same appointment/application/ARN, the excess amount will be refunded by the RPO. The passport appointment can be rescheduled twice within a year from the date of the original appointment. However, if you miss the appointment, you can’t reschedule the appointment.

In conclusion, the online passport application process through the Passport Seva website offers a convenient and streamlined experience for Indian citizens. From registration to appointment scheduling and payment, the digital platform simplifies each step, allowing applicants to manage their passport applications efficiently.