Passport Renewal in India: Everything You Need to Know

If you want to travel the world, then one item you must always have in your arsenal is a valid passport. It is the document that allows you to go to different countries. In India, a passport has to be renewed from time to time to continue its validity. Renewing your passport and ensuring its validity is important because it can serve as proof of identity for you. If you are travelling abroad and happen to lose your passport, it can be quite challenging. That is why, it is also recommended to have travel insurance that provides coverage in case the passport is lost. * Claims are subject to terms and conditions set forth under travel insurance policy. Before opting for the same, it is important to ensure that the passport is renewed on time. Here’s a guide on the same.

Overview of the Passport Renewal Process in India

To begin with, one must know that a standard passport in India stays valid for up to 10 years. Once this period has passed or your passport may have been invalidated for some other reason, there are two ways you can renew it. You can either renew your passport online or take the offline approach. Let’s take a brief look at both:

Online Procedure to Renew Passport in India

Just like you can buy travel health insurance online, you can also renew your passport online. Here are the steps you need to take for the same:

1. Log in to the Passport Seva website.
2. If you are a new user, register yourself using the ‘New User Registration’ option. If you already have an account, opt for the ‘Existing User Login’ option and proceed.
3. If you are registering for the first time, you may have to fill out a ‘User Registration’ form and choose a ‘Passport Office’. You can select the suitable office nearest to your residential location.
4. Provide personal details, such as your name, date of birth, email address, and so on.
5. Register yourself after providing the login ID and password.
6. You will receive an activation link at the email address you provided.
7. Click on the link in the email to create and activate your account.
8. Now that your account has been created, log in to the Passport Seva site with the new credentials.
9. Apply for the ‘Fresh passport/ Re-issue of Passport’
10. Fill out the form that will be available to you with details such as your address and contact information
11. Click on ‘Verify’ and submit after you have ensured all the details are accurate.

Offline Passport Renewal Procedure in India 

Whether it comes to buying travel insurance or renewing your passport, there are options to carry out the process offline. When it comes to the latter, here is the procedure to follow:

1. Visit the Passport Seva website and download the application form under the ‘Forms and Affidavits’ option.
2. Ensure to print the form back to back on an A4 sheet.
3. Fill out the form with the correct details.
4. Submit it at the District Passport Cell along with copies of the needed paperwork. You can also avail the renewal application form at the District Passport Cell.
5. Once the application is verified along with the photos and documents, you have to pay the fees via a Demand Draft.
6. After the payment of the fees, you will receive an ‘acknowledgement letter’. This will usually contain a file number which you can use to check the application status online.

You might need original documents on you when you are submitting your passport renewal application form. Hence, you should know what documents you will need.

How to Schedule a Passport Renewal Appointment?

1. Log in to the Passport Seva portal.
2. Click on “View Saved and Submitted Application” and choose “Pay and Schedule Appointment.”
3. Select a convenient time slot.
4. Pay the fees using a credit/debit card (Visa/MasterCard), net banking (SBI/associated banks), or SBI Challan.
5. Click on “Print Application Receipt” to get your appointment and application reference number.

On the appointment day, visit the Passport Seva Kendra with original documents and photocopies. Submit documents and complete formalities once your group number is called.

Documents Required for Passport Renewal 

Before applying for a passport renewal, ensure that you have the following documents in order:

1. The original passport (with photocopies of its first and last two pages)
2. A photocopy of the ECR (Emigration Check Required)/ Non-ECR, whichever is applicable
3. A photocopy of the observation document as made by the Passport Issuing Authority
4. A photocopy of the observation made by the Passport Issuing Authority
5. A photocopy of the validity extension page (made in regard to the short validity passport)

All of the above-mentioned documents should be self-attested. You might also need the following:

1. Proof of current residence (in case there has been a change since the last time the passport was updated)
2. A passport-sized photo might also be required If the passport is for a child below the age of 4 years.

Depending on the circumstances, you may have to provide more documents required for passport renewal. It is ideal to research the topic or reach out to a travel agent for more details. Ensuring a valid passport helps ensure a smooth travel experience. Alongside, you should also opt for travel insurance to not only smoothen your journey but also make it safer and more secure.

How to check passport renewal status?

1. Log in to the Passport Seva portal.
2. Click on “Track Application Status” on the homepage.
3. Select the appropriate application type (Passport/PCC/IC/GEP), and enter your file number and date of birth.
4. Click “Track Status” to view the current status of your passport renewal.

Frequently asked questions

Do we need to visit the passport office for renewal in India?

Yes, visiting a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) is mandatory for biometric verification and document submission during passport renewal in India.

Do I need to return my old passport when renewing in India?

Yes, you must carry your old passport to the Passport Seva Kendra for cancellation during the renewal process.

Do I need to carry a photo for passport renewal?

No, carrying a photo is not required as the Passport Seva Kendra will capture your photograph during the appointment.

Is the Aadhaar card enough for passport renewal?

Aadhaar card is accepted as valid address and identity proof for passport renewal, but additional documents may be required depending on specific cases.

What documents to carry for reissue of passport?

Carry your old passport, address proof, identity proof, and supporting documents for specific changes like name or address updates. Photocopies and originals are required. * Standard T&C apply. Insurance is the subject matter of solicitation. For more details on benefits, exclusions, limitations, terms, and conditions, please read the sales brochure/policy wording carefully before concluding a sale.