Applying for a Passport with a Change of Address

Posted by Smot Pro - Passport
7
Apr 29, 2025
480 Views

Whether you've moved to a new city, shifted to a new house, or changed your residence due to work or marriage, it’s essential to update your address on your passport to ensure it reflects your current location. In India, the Ministry of External Affairs has made the process for applying for a passport with a change of address straightforward, provided you follow each step diligently.

In this comprehensive guide, we outline the complete procedure for updating your address on a passport in India, required documents, police verification protocols, and tips to ensure your application isn’t delayed or rejected.


Why Is It Important to Update Your Address on a Passport?

Your passport serves as a vital identity and address proof document. If your address has changed since your last application, updating it ensures:

  • Seamless police verification

  • Timely delivery of your passport

  • No issues during visa applications or immigration processes

  • Consistency with other official documents like Aadhaar, PAN, and Voter ID


When Should You Apply for Address Change?

You should apply for a reissue of your passport in the following situations:

  • You’ve moved permanently to a new residence

  • You got married and shifted to your spouse’s home

  • You relocated to another city or state

  • Your existing address was incorrect or needs to be updated

Note: Change of address is not a minor correction; it requires reissuance of the passport.


Step-by-Step Process to Apply for a Passport with a Change of Address

1. Register on the Passport Seva Portal

  • Visit passportindia.gov.in

  • Register with a valid email ID and mobile number

  • Log in to your account using the credentials received

2. Fill Out the Application Form

  • Select the option ‘Re-issue of Passport’

  • Choose ‘Change in Existing Personal Particulars’

  • Tick the option for ‘Change of Address’

  • Fill out the rest of the form with accurate details

3. Pay the Application Fee

  • Standard Passport (36 pages): ₹1,500 (Normal), ₹3,500 (Tatkal)

  • Jumbo Passport (60 pages): ₹2,000 (Normal), ₹4,000 (Tatkal)

  • Payment can be made via net banking, credit/debit cards, or UPI

4. Book an Appointment at the Nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)

  • Choose a PSK or POPSK (Post Office Passport Seva Kendra) near your current residence

  • Select a convenient date and time

  • Download and print your Application Reference Number (ARN) and appointment confirmation

5. Visit the PSK with Required Documents

Carry the following original documents and self-attested photocopies:

Mandatory Documents:

  • Current Passport (original + copy)

  • Proof of Present Address (any one of the following):

    • Aadhaar Card

    • Voter ID

    • Utility Bill (Electricity/Water/Gas)

    • Rental Agreement (registered)

    • Bank Statement with address

    • Spouse’s passport (if address is shared)

  • Annexure ‘F’ (if government employee and applying under Tatkal)

  • Two passport-size photos (only for certain passport offices; most take photos at the PSK)


Police Verification for Change of Address

Is Police Verification Mandatory?

Yes, in most cases, police verification is required when you change your address, unless you are eligible for an exception under Tatkal with Annexure ‘F’ and NOC.

Tips for Smooth Police Verification:

  • Be available at your new address for 10–15 days post-appointment

  • Keep copies of the submitted address proof ready

  • Inform local police station if you miss the verification visit


Processing Time for Passport with Address Change

ModeProcessing Time (Post Verification)
Normal7 to 14 working days
Tatkal1 to 3 working days (post verification or if waived)

Note: Time may vary depending on your city and police clearance speed.


Tatkal Passport for Change of Address

If you need the passport urgently, you can opt for the Tatkal scheme, provided you:

  • Submit Annexure F (from employer) and Annexure I (verification certificate)

  • Have no adverse record or FIR

  • Submit clear and valid documents

  • Have had a passport earlier (fresh applicants are not eligible for Tatkal under address change)


Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Submitting incorrect address proof or outdated documents

  • Mismatch in address across Aadhaar, voter ID, and application form

  • Choosing the wrong option (like fresh application instead of reissue)

  • Not being available during police verification


Conclusion: Keep Your Passport Updated and Accurate

An updated passport with the correct address is more than just a travel document—it's an essential identity and verification tool. Whether you’ve relocated for personal or professional reasons, following the correct procedure ensures a hassle-free and timely passport reissue.

At passportagents.in, we specialize in passport and visa services across India, including address change, renewals, Tatkal, lost passport, and more. Our experienced team operates in Delhi, Pune, Visakhapatnam, Chennai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, and Mumbai, providing doorstep support and personalized guidance for all your documentation needs.

Our office - https://maps.app.goo.gl/9yByR3MxNR3DB3RK8

1 people like it
avatar
Comments
avatar
Please sign in to add comment.