What are the new passport rules in 2025?

For Non-Resident Indians (NRIs), applying for a passport—whether it’s a new passport, renewal, or reissue—is an essential task that requires precise documentation and adherence to consular procedures. The process is handled by Indian embassies and consulates across the globe and differs slightly from the domestic procedure followed within India.

In this comprehensive guide, we explain the entire process of passport application for NRIs, including who qualifies as an NRI, documentation requirements, step-by-step instructions, and essential tips to ensure a smooth and quick issuance of your Indian passport from abroad.

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Who Is Considered an NRI for Passport Application Purposes?

An NRI (Non-Resident Indian) is any Indian citizen residing outside India for more than 182 days in a financial year for purposes such as employment, education, or business.

NRIs remain Indian passport holders, and are therefore eligible to apply for:

• New passport

• Renewal or reissue of expired/damaged passport

• Passport for a new-born child born abroad

• Change of address, name, or other personal details

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Where Should NRIs Apply for a Passport?

All NRI passport applications must be submitted to the nearest Indian Mission or Post in the country of residence. This includes:

• Indian Embassies

• Indian High Commissions

• Indian Consulates-General

These missions handle all passport-related services through outsourced agencies (like VFS Global or BLS International) or directly through their consular sections, depending on the country.

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Step-by-Step Process for NRI Passport Application

1. Register on the Passport Application Portal

• Go to the official Passport Seva Portal for Indian Embassies.

• Register as a new user and create an account.

• Select the country where you're applying and login.

2. Fill Out the Online Application Form

• Choose the appropriate service: Fresh passport, Reissue, Lost/Damaged, or Change in particulars.

• Fill in the required details: name, address abroad, Indian address, family info, employment, and contact info.

• Download and save the completed form.

3. Book an Appointment

• Select the Indian Embassy or authorized application center (VFS/BLS) based on your location.

• Book a convenient appointment slot and print the confirmation.

4. Prepare the Required Documents

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Documents Required for NRI Passport Application

Note: Specific documents may vary slightly by country—always check with the local Indian mission.

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5. Attend the Appointment and Submit Biometrics

• Visit the Indian Embassy or authorized service center with original documents and photocopies.

• Submit your application, biometrics (if required), and photograph.

• Pay the applicable fee via local payment modes.

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6. Track Your Application

• After submission, you'll receive an application reference number.

• Use it to track your application status on the portal of the Indian mission or the outsourced agency.

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7. Receive the Passport

• Once approved, the new passport will be printed and dispatched to your mailing address or available for collection, depending on your chosen option.

• Delivery time varies between 5 to 20 working days based on the mission's workload and country-specific rules.

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Fees for NRI Passport Application

Note: Actual fee varies by country and may include service charges from VFS/BLS.

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Special Considerations for NRI Passport Applicants

1. No Police Verification in India (In Most Cases)

If your passport was originally issued with police verification and there's no change of address in India, police verification is typically not required again.

2. Passport for NRI Children

• Both parents must sign the application.

• Child’s birth certificate and parents' passports are mandatory.

• Declaration affirming child has no other nationality (in case of dual citizenship countries).

3. Lost or Stolen Passport Abroad

• Report immediately to the local police and get an FIR or complaint report.

• Apply for a duplicate passport or Emergency Certificate at the nearest Indian mission.

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How We Help at smotpro.in

At smotpro.in, we assist NRIs across the globe in securing Indian passport services with ease and speed. Our services include:

• Personalized support for application filling and documentation

• Country-specific guidance based on embassy requirements

• Assistance with urgent/emergency passport issuance

• Support for child passport applications

• 24/7 customer support via call, chat, or email

Whether you’re in the USA, UK, UAE, Canada, Australia, or anywhere else, we help you navigate the NRI passport process smoothly and stress-free.

Our office - https://maps.app.goo.gl/nNVUdRcNXhVw3Bwu9