How to Apply for an Indian Passport: Step-by-Step Guide with Latest Rules (2026)
Applying for an Indian passport has become simpler, faster, and more transparent due to digital reforms by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). Whether you are applying for the first time, renewal, re-issue, or Tatkal passport, this SEO-optimized guide explains the complete procedure step by step, along with the new rules for Indian passport you must know in 2026.
What is an Indian Passport?
An Indian passport is an official travel document issued by the Government of India that certifies the identity and nationality of an Indian citizen for international travel.
Types of Indian Passports
Ordinary Passport (Blue) – For general citizens
Official Passport (White) – For government officialsDiplomatic Passport (Maroon) – For diplomats
Tatkal Passport – Fast-track passport under urgent need
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Indian Passport
Step 1: Visit the Official Passport Website
Go to the official Passport Seva portal:
👉 https://passportindia.gov.in
Click on “New User Registration”.
Step 2: Register Yourself
Select Passport Office (nearest city)
Enter name, date of birth, email IDCreate login ID and password
Verify via email link
Step 3: Login & Choose Application Type
After login, select:
Fresh Passport
Re-issue of Passport (renewal, damage, lost, change in details)Choose Normal or Tatkal service.
Step 4: Fill Passport Application Form
You can fill the form in two ways:
Online Form Submission
Download PDF → Fill → Upload
Details required:
Personal information
Address detailsFamily details
Educational details
👉 Carefully verify spellings and dates.
Step 5: Pay Passport Fees & Book Appointment
Pay online using:
Debit/Credit Card
UPINet Banking
After payment, book an appointment at:
Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)
Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK)Step 6: Visit PSK/POPSK with Documents
On appointment day:
Reach 15 minutes early
Carry original documents + self-attested copiesBiometric data, photograph, and verification will be done.
Step 7: Police Verification
Police verification may be:
Pre-verification
Post-verificationNo police verification (in selected cases)
Local police will verify address and details.
Step 8: Passport Dispatch
After successful verification:
Passport is printed
Dispatched via India Post Speed PostTracking available on Passport Seva portal
Documents Required for Indian Passport
Proof of Identity
Aadhaar Card
Voter IDPAN Card
Proof of Address
Aadhaar Card
Electricity/Water BillBank Passbook
Rent Agreement
Proof of Date of Birth
Birth Certificate
10th MarksheetAadhaar Card
New Rules for Indian Passport (Latest Updates 2025–26)
1. Digital Birth Certificate Mandatory
For applicants born on or after 1 October 2023, a Birth Certificate issued by municipal authority is compulsory.
2. Aadhaar Not Mandatory but Preferred
Aadhaar is not compulsory, but linking Aadhaar speeds up verification and processing.
3. Parents’ Name Optional
Applicants can now choose:
Father’s name only
Mother’s name onlyBoth
This is beneficial for single parents and guardians.
4. Simplified Address Proof Norms
Applicants are allowed to submit any one valid address proof, reducing document burden.
5. Police Verification Relaxation
Government employees may get exemption
Renewal without address change often requires no police verification6. E-Passport Rollout
India has started issuing chip-enabled e-passports in selected cities for enhanced security and faster immigration clearance.
7. Tatkal Passport Rule Change
Tatkal applicants now require:
Fewer documents
Faster appointment slotsPolice verification mostly post-issuance
Passport Fees (Indicative)
| Category | Pages | Validity | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh Passport | 36 | 10 years | ₹1,500 |
| Fresh Passport | 60 | 10 years | ₹2,000 |
| Tatkal | 36 | 10 years | ₹3,500 |
| Minor Passport | 36 | 5 years | ₹1,000 |
Important Tips for Applicants
Ensure documents match exactly
Use same spelling as Aadhaar/10th certificateKeep phone active for police verification
Track status regularly online
Conclusion
Applying for an Indian passport in 2026 is a smooth, online-driven process. With relaxed rules, digital verification, and faster services like Tatkal and e-passport, citizens can now obtain passports with ease. Following the correct step-by-step procedure and understanding the latest rules will help you avoid delays and rejections.
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