What If the Passport Seva Kendra Is Closed on My Appointment Date?
Booking an appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) is a crucial step in the passport application process. However, there are situations when the PSK may be closed on your appointment date, leaving applicants confused and concerned about rescheduling or missing deadlines. Whether it’s due to a public holiday, local bandh, emergency closure, or natural calamity, here’s exactly what you need to do if you find yourself in this situation.
In this detailed guide, we’ll walk you through the causes of PSK closures, how to verify them, and how to ensure your passport application process doesn’t suffer unnecessary delays.
Why Do Passport Seva Kendras Sometimes Remain Closed?
Though PSKs operate on fixed schedules, they may be closed unexpectedly or as per the holiday calendar. Common reasons include:
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National or state public holidays
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Local elections or government announcements
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Strikes, protests, or security concerns
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Technical system failures
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Natural disasters (e.g., floods, storms, earthquakes)
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Power outages or emergencies
These closures can be either pre-announced or sudden, and it’s important to stay updated.
How to Check If the PSK Will Be Closed
1. Visit the Official Passport Seva Website
The best way to confirm is by visiting the official Passport Seva Portal.
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Go to the “What's New” section or check the RPO/PSK holiday calendar
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Search for holiday notifications under “Public Notices”
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Some cities may post city-specific alerts if the PSK is temporarily non-operational
2. Call the Passport Helpline
Dial the National Passport Helpline:
? 1800-258-1800 (Toll-Free)
Available Monday to Saturday from 8 AM to 10 PM
You can ask about your specific PSK and whether it's operational on the date of your appointment.
3. Contact Your Regional Passport Office (RPO)
The RPO usually manages the local PSKs. You can email or call them to check the latest status, especially if you suspect a closure due to regional events or emergencies.
4. Check for SMS/Email Notifications
If the closure is pre-planned or urgent, PSK often sends out:
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SMS alerts to your registered number
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Emails regarding rescheduling options
Ensure your contact details in the application are accurate.
What Happens If the PSK Is Closed on Your Appointment Date?
Here’s what typically happens if the PSK is closed when your appointment was scheduled:
1. Automatic Rescheduling
In most cases, the Passport Seva system automatically reschedules your appointment to the next available working day. You will receive:
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A new appointment date via SMS or email
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The same time slot, if possible
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No need to repay or reapply
This usually happens within 24–48 hours of the closure notice.
2. Manual Rescheduling (If Not Auto-Rescheduled)
If your appointment isn’t automatically shifted:
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Log into your Passport Seva account
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Go to “View Submitted Applications”
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Select your application and choose “Reschedule Appointment”
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Pick a new date and time from the available slots
This can be done twice free of cost. The third time onwards, you’ll need to pay the fees again.
Will I Lose My Fee or Appointment If the PSK Is Closed?
No. If the PSK closure is official and your appointment cannot be honored:
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Your payment is still valid
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You are eligible for rescheduling at no extra charge
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You will not lose your spot in the processing queue
Make sure to reschedule as early as possible to avoid delays.
Tips to Handle PSK Closures Efficiently
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Monitor holidays in advance: Always check the holiday list of the Passport Seva Kendra relevant to your region.
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Book morning slots: Morning appointments are less likely to be affected in case of half-day closures or disruptions.
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Keep your phone and email accessible: Alerts and reschedule options will be communicated here.
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Use professional assistance if you’re confused or need urgent passport issuance after a missed appointment.
Can I Visit Another PSK If Mine Is Closed?
Unfortunately, no. Passport appointments are specific to the PSK where your slot was booked. You cannot walk into another PSK without an appointment, even in case of closure.
However, if you have a genuine emergency, you can contact your Regional Passport Officer and explain your situation. In rare cases, they may issue a special appointment at an alternate location.
What If I Missed My Appointment Because I Didn’t Know It Was Closed?
If you visited the PSK only to find it shut:
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Keep a photo or evidence (shutter down, notice on door, etc.)
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Wait for automatic rescheduling
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If not updated within 48 hours, raise a grievance through the Passport Seva Portal’s “Feedback/Grievance” section
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You may also email the RPO directly
How to Avoid Such Situations in the Future
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Check the official holiday list when booking your appointment
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Avoid booking on borderline holidays (e.g., before/after long weekends or elections)
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Stay updated through SMS/Email alerts
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Use the Passport Seva App for instant notifications and updates
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