Renewing a passport in India has become more streamlined and accessible thanks to the Ministry of External Affairs' initiative to digitize passport services. The online passport renewal process is user-friendly, efficient, and designed to save applicants valuable time. This comprehensive guide explains every step involved in renewing your passport online in India, ensuring you meet all requirements and complete your application successfully.
Understanding Passport Renewal in India
Before diving into the steps, it's crucial to know when a passport is eligible for renewal. A passport can be renewed:
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Within one year before its expiry.
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After it has expired (even beyond one year).
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If the pages are exhausted.
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In case of damaged, lost, or stolen passports.
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If there are changes in personal details such as name, address, or appearance.
Renewal does not mean applying for a new passport from scratch. Your renewed passport will retain the same number (if applied before expiry), with updated validity and details.
Step-by-Step Guide to Online Passport Renewal
Step 1: Register on the Passport Seva Portal
Visit the official Passport Seva Website.
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Click on “New User? Register Now”.
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Choose your nearest Passport Office (PSK or RPO) based on your current address.
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Fill in your basic details like name, DOB, email ID, login credentials.
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Submit the form and activate your account using the link sent to your email.
Tip: Use an email ID you check regularly as all communications will go there.
Step 2: Login and Fill the Application Form
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Login using your registered ID and password.
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Select “Apply for Fresh Passport/Reissue of Passport.”
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Choose the “Reissue” option and specify the reason for renewal (Expiry, Exhaustion of pages, Damage, Lost, etc.).
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Fill the form with accurate and updated personal details:
Ensure the address matches your current proof of residence documents.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fee
Once the form is filled, proceed to pay the fee:
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Normal Application Fee: ₹1,500 for 36-page booklet (10-year validity).
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Tatkal Application Fee: ₹3,500 (inclusive of Tatkal charges).
Accepted modes of payment:
Note: Tatkal applications are faster but require additional verification.
Step 4: Book an Appointment
After payment, schedule an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO).
Print your appointment receipt. It's mandatory for entry into the PSK.
Step 5: Visit the PSK with Required Documents
On the appointment day, visit the PSK with original and photocopies of the necessary documents:
Mandatory Documents for Renewal:
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Old Passport (original and self-attested copy of first and last page)
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Aadhaar Card or other Address Proof
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Passport-size photographs (if not captured digitally)
Additional Documents (if applicable):
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Annexure ‘E’ (Self-declaration for minor changes)
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Police Verification Report (in some cases)
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Affidavits in case of name changes or loss of passport
Arrive at the PSK at least 15 minutes before your time slot to complete token formalities.
Important Points to Remember During Passport Renewal
Types of Passport Renewal Services
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Normal Service – Standard processing time (7–14 working days).
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Tatkal Service – Faster processing (1–3 working days), subject to eligibility and document verification.
Police Verification for Renewals
Police verification is not always mandatory for renewals. It depends on:
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Address change
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Damage/loss cases
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Time since last issuance
You’ll be informed during the application whether pre- or post-police verification is required.
Tracking Your Passport Application
After your PSK appointment, use the Passport Seva website or mobile app to:
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Track real-time application status using your ARN.
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Get SMS updates if opted for during the application.
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Know dispatch details via the Speed Post tracking number once issued.
Common Mistakes to Avoid in Online Passport Renewal
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Entering incorrect personal details.
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Uploading unclear or mismatched documents.
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Not selecting the correct reason for renewal.
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Missing the appointment or arriving late.
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Ignoring the email instructions sent post-appointment.
Always double-check all entries before submitting the form and carry originals for verification.
Renewing Passport for Minors and NRIs
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Minors under 18 years need parental consent and supporting documents like birth certificates, parents' ID proofs.
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NRIs can also initiate renewal from abroad via Indian Missions or embassies with a slightly different process involving local jurisdiction.
Benefits of Renewing Passport Online
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Convenient & time-saving – No long queues.
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Transparent – Real-time tracking of status.
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Secure – Encrypted data submission.
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Faster Processing – Especially under Tatkal scheme.
Conclusion
Renewing your passport online is a straightforward process when you follow the correct steps and prepare the required documents in advance. Whether your passport has expired, been lost, or damaged, the online portal allows for quick, secure, and efficient reissuance with minimal hassle.
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