Can First-Time Applicants Apply Under Tatkal?

Travel & Tourism

Apr 7, 2025

371 Views

For Indian citizens seeking urgent travel documentation, the Tatkal Passport Scheme is a widely trusted solution. One of the most frequently asked questions is: Can first-time applicants apply under Tatkal? The answer is yes, but with specific conditions and documentation requirements. This article offers an in-depth explanation of how first-time passport applicants can successfully apply under the Tatkal scheme, including eligibility, documents, timelines, and important precautions.

Understanding the Tatkal Passport Scheme for First-Time Applicants

The Tatkal Passport Scheme, launched by the Ministry of External Affairs, is intended for those who need a passport urgently and cannot wait for the regular processing time. While it's popular among people renewing their passports, first-time applicants are also eligible, provided they meet all the necessary criteria.

Eligibility Criteria for First-Time Tatkal Passport Applicants

✅ Indian Citizenship

Only individuals holding Indian citizenship are eligible. NRIs must apply through Indian embassies abroad.

✅ No Pending Criminal Records

Applicants should not have any pending criminal cases, police complaints, or FIRs against them. Clean police verification history is essential.

✅ Sufficient Documentation

You must possess the necessary documents as per the Tatkal documentation checklist, including address and identity proof, date of birth certificate, and annexures.

✅ Genuine Reason for Urgency

While no justification document is required for urgency, Tatkal is intended for those with genuine travel emergencies—work, medical, education, etc.

What Makes First-Time Applications More Sensitive?

Since first-time applicants do not have a passport history, the verification process is a bit more stringent. The Passport Officer has the discretion to decide whether the police verification will be pre-issuance or post-issuance. In many cases, first-time applicants may face pre-police verification, which may slightly delay the passport issuance under Tatkal.

Documents Required for First-Time Tatkal Passport Applicants

To ensure swift processing under Tatkal, first-time applicants must submit the following:

Essential Documents

Annexure 'F' – Verification Certificate issued by a Class I Gazetted Officer on official letterhead.
Annexure 'I' – Self-declaration affirming no criminal record.
Proof of Identity – Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, PAN Card, Driving License.
Proof of Address – Latest utility bill, bank statement, rent agreement, Aadhaar Card.
Date of Birth Proof – Birth certificate, matriculation certificate, or PAN card.

Optional (if applicable)

Educational documents for students.
Employment documents for working professionals.
Marriage certificate if married and spouse’s name needs to be added.

Always carry originals along with multiple photocopies to avoid processing delays.

How to Apply for Tatkal Passport as a First-Time Applicant

Step 1: Online Registration

Visit the official Passport Seva Portal. Create an account and choose Tatkal while filling the application form.

Step 2: Fill the Application Form

Provide all necessary details, including personal information, address, and employment details. Select the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).

Step 3: Upload Documents & Pay Fees

Tatkal fees for a fresh passport (36 pages) with 10-year validity is ₹3,500. Payment must be made online.

Step 4: Book Appointment at PSK

Choose an available date and time for your appointment. Early morning slots are preferred for faster processing.

Step 5: Attend Appointment

Visit your selected PSK with your documents and printed appointment receipt. Your biometrics, photograph, and document verification will be completed.

Step 6: Police Verification

For first-time applicants, police verification may be required before passport dispatch. If post-verification is allowed, the passport can be issued within 1–3 days.

Timeline: How Fast Can First-Time Applicants Get a Tatkal Passport?

With Post-Police Verification: 1–3 working days.
With Pre-Police Verification: 5–7 working days (subject to police clearance).
In Metro Cities: Typically faster processing due to efficient infrastructure and digital police clearance systems.

Precautions for First-Time Tatkal Applicants

Ensure Annexure F is from a legitimate Gazetted Officer.
Double-check all document details—inconsistencies can cause rejections or delays.
Carry additional documents in case officers demand supporting proof.
Arrive early at PSK to avoid missing your slot.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Submitting incomplete documentation.
Providing false or misleading information in the form.
Failing to get the correct Annexure format or signature.
Not checking for spelling consistency across documents.

Yes, First-Time Applicants Can Apply Under Tatkal – But Be Prepared

To summarize, first-time applicants are eligible to apply under the Tatkal Passport Scheme, provided they submit the complete and accurate set of documents, and there are no adverse police records. The key to a successful Tatkal passport issuance for a first-time applicant lies in preparation, documentation accuracy, and timely appointment booking.

Online Passport Agents in Hyderabad

Need help with your first-time Tatkal passport? Our online passport agents in Hyderabad and across India specialize in fast-track passport services. We assist with:

First-Time Passport Applications
Tatkal Appointments and Documentation
New & Renewal Passport Services
ECR/ECNR Category Clarifications
Name or Address Changes
Lost, Damaged, or Stolen Passport Replacements
Visa Assistance for All Countries

We offer a quick, transparent, and expert-driven service to ensure your passport journey is smooth from start to finish.

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