If you are planning to travel to a different country for a vacation or business trip, you would need to have a passport first. But how do you get it? If you are going for a foreign trip for the first time, then applying correctly for the passport can be a confusing process. Today, we have this step-by-step guide of how to apply for a passport.
What is a passport?
A passport is an official government-issued document that serves as proof of identity and nationality for international travel. It allows a person to travel abroad and re-enter their home country. Passports typically include essential information about the holder, such as their full name, date of birth, photograph, nationality, and a unique identification number. Additionally, it contains pages for entry and exit stamps from various countries as travelers cross international borders. The passport is an essential travel document that enables individuals to move between countries while ensuring their identity and citizenship are recognized by foreign governments.
How To Apply For Passport Online
To apply for a passport, you will need to follow the following steps:
- Visit the official Passport Seva website and register yourself. If you have registered before, you can directly log in to your existing account.
- Go to the “fresh passport/re-issue of passport section”. You must not have an existing passport to apply for this.
- Fill out the passport application form accurately and legibly and press submit. Double-check all the information provided before submitting.
- Head back to the home page and select “view saved/submitted applications”.
- Book a slot at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra for an appointment. Here you will go through a physical verification process.
- Prepare the required fees for the passport application. The cost will vary depending on the type of passport and any additional services you might require, such as expedited processing.
Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll need to wait for processing. Standard processing times can vary, so have a check at the website for estimated processing times. If you need your passport urgently, inquire about Tatkal services.
You should receive an SMS with your appointment details.You can also track the status of your application online or through the Passport Seva helpline. This will help you stay informed about the progress and estimated delivery date of your passport.
What Documents Do You Need To Apply For A Passport?
You will require the following documents with you during the passport application appointment:
- Address proof like any utility bill, Aadhar card, voter card, or rent agreement.
- Proof of your birth date. You will need either a birth certificate, PAN Card, voter ID, or Aadhar card.
- Documentation for ECR/non-ECR categories
How Much Does A Passport Cost?
Your passport cost will depend on the type you have applied for. If you have applied for a 36-page booklet with a 10-year validity period, it will cost you Rs 1,500 or Rs 2,000 if applied via Tatkal. The bigger 60-page booklet with the same validity period will set you back by Rs 2,000. For minors, a passport application costs Rs 1,000 or Rs 2,000 if you want it expedited.
If you want to replace your passport, it will cost you around Rs 3,000 – Rs 3,500.
How Long Does It Take To Receive Your Passport?
Passports are dispatched by India Post via speed post. It gets delivered to the address mentioned in the passport application form. In general, standard passport processing times in India range around 30-45 days. If you applied for Tatkal service, then it takes 7-14 days, depending on how soon the police verification process is done. One can track their passports by using the tracking number on the India Speed Post website.
Is There Any Eligibility Requirement For A Passport Application?
Yes, there are a few criteria needed for a passport. To apply for a passport, an individual has to meet the following eligibility requirements:
- Any Indian citizen above the age of 18 can apply for a passport.
- Individuals aged below 18 can apply for a passport that is valid only for 5 years or till they reach the age of 18 years.
- Children who are aged between 15 and 18 can apply for a 10-year validity passport. On the other hand, parents can also opt for a children’s passport that is eligible till they turn 18.
What Is The Validity and Expiry of A Passport?
A passport booklet of 36 or 60 pages has a validity period of upto 10 years from the date of issue. Meanwhile, Indian citizens below the age of 18 have a passport validity of only 5 years.
Conclusion
At the end of the day, a passport is the highest level of personal identification for a citizen. By following the aforementioned steps, applying for a passport should be a relatively simple and straightforward process.
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Overseas Travel Protection
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Domestic Travel Protection
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Annual Travel Protection
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Student Travel Protection
