A passport is an essential document that confirms the identity and nationality of its holder, allowing for travel for leisure, business, or educational purposes. It remains valid for ten years from the date of issue for adults, after which renewal is required. The renewal process can be initiated up to three years after expiry or up to one year before expiration. It is advisable to start the renewal process at least nine months before expiry to avoid delays that could affect travel plans.
For minors, passports are valid for five years or until they turn 18, whichever comes first. Minors aged 15 to 18 can choose to apply for a full-validity passport lasting 10 years using the online passport renewal service.
How to renew your passport online?
1. Visit the Passport Seva website.
2. Register as a new user or log in if you’re an existing user.
3. Click on ‘Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport.’
4. Select ‘Click here to fill the application form.’
5. Fill in the required details, including applicant, family, and address information.
6. Enter emergency contact details and details of the previous passport.
7. Agree to the self-declaration and submit the form.
8. After submitting the form, proceed to pay the passport renewal fees and schedule an appointment.
How to schedule an appointment?
1. Log in to the Passport Seva website.
2. Choose ‘View Saved and Submitted Application’ and select ‘Pay and Schedule Appointment.’
3. Choose a payment method and select a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).
4. Confirm your PSK by entering the CAPTCHA code.
5. Choose a convenient slot from available dates and select ‘Pay and Book the Appointment.’
The renewal fees vary based on age, booklet pages, and the scheme chosen (normal or tatkal). The tatkal scheme incurs an additional fee of Rs 2000.
The documents required for renewal include the original passport, application receipt, self-attested copies of relevant pages, proof of address, and other specific documents depending on your category. After uploading the documents, you need to visit the Passport Seva Kendra on the appointment date to complete the renewal process.
How to track your passport renewal status?
1. Log in to the Passport Seva portal.
2. Choose ‘Track application status.’
3. Enter details like application type, file number, and date of birth.
4. Click ‘Track Status’ to know your passport’s status.
The processing time depends on the scheme chosen, with the normal scheme taking 30-60 days and the tatkal scheme ensuring quicker renewal in 3-7 days. Following these steps will ensure a successful and stress-free online passport renewal experience.
Application fees:
– Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport with additional booklet due to visa page exhaustion (36 pages) of ten years validity: Rs 1500
– Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport with additional booklet due to visa page exhaustion (60 pages) of ten years validity: Rs 2000
– Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport for Minors (below 18 years of age), valid for five years or until the minor is 18, whichever is earlier (36 pages): Rs 1000
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