A passport serves as more than just a travel document; it’s a testament to your identity and your belongingness to a specific nation. Whether you’re embarking on a holiday adventure, pursuing career opportunities abroad, or furthering your education, a valid passport is your ticket to the world. However, as passports have expiration dates, it’s imperative to keep them updated to ensure seamless travel experiences. For Indian citizens, passports are typically valid for ten years from the date of issuance. Once this period elapses, the passport must be renewed. The renewal process can commence up to three years post-expiration or as early as one year before expiry. Ideally, initiating renewal approximately nine months beforehand is recommended to preempt any potential delays that might impede your travel plans. Nevertheless, renewal within six months of expiration is permissible but might lead to complications. Guide to Renewing Your Passport Online.
For individuals under the age of 18, passports remain valid for five years or until they reach the age of 18, whichever occurs first. Subsequently, renewal becomes necessary. Notably, those aged between 15 and 18 have the option to procure a passport with a ten-year validity period. Guide to Renewing Your Passport Online.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Renewing Your Passport Online
Step 1: Access the Passport Seva Website
Navigate to the official Passport Seva website to kickstart your passport renewal journey.
Step 2: Registration
If you haven’t registered previously, complete the registration process to obtain your login credentials.
Step 3: Login
Utilize your login ID to access the portal.
Step 4: Application Initiation
Select the option ‘Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport’ to initiate the renewal process.
Step 5: Form Completion
Thoroughly fill in all requisite details accurately.
Step 6: Payment and Appointment Scheduling
Opt for the ‘Pay and Schedule Appointment’ feature to make the necessary payment.
Step 7: Receipt Generation
Generate and retain the application receipt for future reference.
Step 8: In-Person Visit
On the scheduled date, visit your nearest Passport Seva Kendra along with all essential documents and your application form.
Booking an Appointment for Passport Renewal
To secure an appointment for passport renewal, follow these simple steps:
Step 1: Portal Access
Log in to the Passport Seva website using your credentials.
Step 2: Application Access
Select ‘View Saved and Submitted Application’ and proceed to ‘Pay and Schedule Appointment’.
Step 3: PSK Selection
Choose your preferred Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) location.
Step 4: Verification
Verify your selected PSK location by entering the displayed CAPTCHA code.
Step 5: Appointment Scheduling
Select a suitable appointment slot from the available dates and confirm your booking.
Passport Renewal Fees and Additional Charges
The passport renewal fees are subject to variation based on factors such as age, booklet page count, and the chosen scheme (normal or tatkal). Opting for the tatkal scheme incurs an additional fee
Documents Required for Passport Renewal
Ensure you have the following documents ready for passport renewal:
- Original passport
- Photocopies of the first and last two pages of your current passport
- ECR/Non-ECR page photocopies with self-attestation
- Address proof
- Validity extension page photocopy
- Self-attested page of observation photocopy
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) on Passport Renewal
When should I start the passport renewal process?
It is recommended to start the renewal process about nine months before your passport expires to avoid any delays or interruptions in your travel plans.
Can I renew my passport if it has already expired?
Yes, you can renew your passport up to three years after it has expired. However, starting the renewal process before it expires is advisable to avoid any potential issues.
What is the validity period of a renewed passport?
For adults, a renewed passport is typically valid for ten years. For minors, it is valid for five years or until they turn 18, whichever comes first.
Can I apply for passport renewal online?
Yes, the Passport Seva portal allows you to renew your passport online through a straightforward step-by-step process.
What documents do I need for passport renewal?
You will need your original passport, photocopies of the first and last two pages of your current passport, address proof, and other relevant documents as specified by the Passport Seva portal.
How do I book an appointment for passport renewal?
Log in to the Passport Seva website, select ‘View Saved and Submitted Application’, then choose ‘Pay and Schedule Appointment’. Select a payment method, verify the Passport Seva Kendra location, and choose a suitable appointment slot. Guide to Renewing Your Passport Online
What are the fees for renewing a passport?
The fees vary based on factors like age, the number of pages in the booklet, and the type of scheme (normal or tatkal). The tatkal scheme incurs an additional fee of ₹2000.
How can I make the payment for passport renewal?
Payments can be made online through various methods available on the Passport Seva portal, including credit/debit cards, internet banking, and other digital payment options.
Can I reschedule my appointment for passport renewal?
Yes, you can reschedule your appointment through the Passport Seva portal, subject to availability and the terms and conditions specified.
What should I do if I lose my appointment receipt?
You can log in to the Passport Seva portal and reprint your application receipt from the ‘Saved/Submitted Applications’ section.
Is it mandatory to visit the Passport Seva Kendra in person?
Yes, you must visit the Passport Seva Kendra on the scheduled date with your application receipt and required documents to complete the renewal process.
What happens if I miss my appointment?
If you miss your appointment, you will need to reschedule it through the Passport Seva portal. Missing an appointment may lead to delays in the renewal process.
Can I apply for a passport renewal if I change my address?
Yes, you can renew your passport if your address has changed. You will need to provide proof of your new address along with the other required documents.
How long does it take to receive a renewed passport?
The processing time varies based on the scheme chosen (normal or tatkal) and other factors. Generally, it takes a few weeks under the normal scheme and a shorter period under the tatkal scheme.
Can I track the status of my passport renewal application?
Yes, you can track the status of your application through the Passport Seva portal using your application reference number (ARN).
Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Please refer to the official Passport Seva website for the most accurate and updated information.
