Tatkal Passport: Complete Guide to Urgent Passport Services

Posted by PassportAgents.in
7
Oct 14, 2025
142 Views

Need a passport urgently for a job abroad, higher education, or last-minute travel? The Tatkal Passport scheme is your fastest and most reliable way to get your passport in India within just a few days. This article is your complete guide to Tatkal passport services, covering the process, eligibility, documents, fees, and expert tips to ensure smooth and quick approval.


What is a Tatkal Passport?

The Tatkal Passport is a fast-track passport service introduced by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India. It is designed for applicants who need their passport on an urgent basis.

Under the Tatkal scheme, you can receive your passport within 1 to 3 working days, depending on document verification and police clearance.

This service applies to both new passport applications and renewals (reissue).


Who Can Apply for a Tatkal Passport?

Anyone who needs a passport urgently can apply under the Tatkal scheme, provided they meet the eligibility criteria.

Eligible Applicants:

  • Individuals applying for fresh passports.

  • Applicants applying for reissue/renewal due to expiry, lost, or damaged passports.

  • Those who have valid supporting documents and a clear police record.

Not Eligible for Tatkal:

  • Applicants with pending criminal cases.

  • People with adverse police verification history.

  • Minors without parents’ documents.

  • Government servants without a No Objection Certificate (NOC).


Benefits of Tatkal Passport Scheme

The Tatkal scheme offers multiple advantages for applicants who need their passport quickly:

  • Fast processing: Passport issued within 1–3 working days.

  • Priority appointment: Early slots at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).

  • No need to wait for regular processing queues.

  • Available for both fresh and renewal cases.


Documents Required for Tatkal Passport

The documents differ slightly based on whether you’re applying for a fresh passport or a reissue.

1. Common Documents (for All Applicants):

  • Proof of Date of Birth: Birth Certificate, Matriculation Certificate, PAN Card, or Aadhaar Card.

  • Address Proof: Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, Electricity Bill, Bank Passbook, or Rent Agreement.

  • Self-attested copies of all documents.

2. Additional Documents for Tatkal:

  • Annexure F: Verification Certificate from a Gazetted Officer (as per MEA format).

  • Annexure I: Self-declaration form stating the reason for urgent application.

  • Old Passport Copy (in case of reissue).

  • Police Clearance Certificate (if available).

Having complete and correct documentation is essential for quick approval under the Tatkal scheme.


Tatkal Passport Application Process: Step-by-Step

Follow these steps for a smooth Tatkal passport application:

Step 1: Register on Passport Seva Portal

Go to https://passportindia.gov.in and register as a new user.
Login to your account and select “Apply for Fresh Passport/Reissue Passport.”


Step 2: Select Tatkal Scheme

While filling out the application, choose “Tatkal” under the Type of Application section.


Step 3: Fill in Details and Upload Documents

Fill out the form carefully with accurate details. Upload all necessary documents and save your application.


Step 4: Pay Tatkal Fees and Schedule Appointment

Pay the Tatkal passport fee online and choose the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) for appointment.


Step 5: Visit PSK for Verification

Visit the PSK on your appointment date with all original documents and Annexures.
Your biometrics, photo, and signature will be recorded, followed by document verification.


Step 6: Police Verification

In most Tatkal cases, post-police verification is done — meaning you get your passport first, and police verification follows afterward.


Step 7: Receive Passport

Once approved, your passport is printed and dispatched via Speed Post within 1–3 working days.


Tatkal Passport Fees for Adults and Minors

The Tatkal service involves an additional fee over the standard passport cost.

Passport TypePagesNormal Fee (₹)Tatkal Fee (₹)
Fresh/Reissue (18+ years)36 pages₹1,500₹3,500
Fresh/Reissue (18+ years)60 pages₹2,000₹4,000
Minor (Below 18 years)36 pages₹1,000₹3,000

Note: Tatkal fees are non-refundable even if your application gets delayed or rejected due to incomplete documents.


Tatkal Passport Processing Time

The biggest benefit of the Tatkal scheme is its speed.
Here’s what you can expect:

  • Application submission to dispatch: Within 1–3 working days.

  • Police verification: Usually post-issuance, unless specific verification is required.

  • Delivery: Through Speed Post, generally within 5–7 working days total.


Tips for Quick Approval

  1. Ensure documents are valid and complete. Missing Annexure F or incorrect proof can cause delays.

  2. Choose Tatkal while filling the application, not afterward — you can’t convert a normal passport to Tatkal later.

  3. Book early morning slots for faster processing at PSK.

  4. Bring originals for all uploaded documents.

  5. Stay available for post-police verification to avoid future issues.


Common Reasons for Tatkal Passport Delays

Even in a fast-track process, some applications face delays. Common reasons include:

  • Incomplete or mismatched documentation.

  • Police verification issues.

  • Mistakes in application form.

  • Name, date of birth, or address inconsistencies across documents.

  • Lack of Annexure F or I.


Tatkal Passport vs Normal Passport

FeatureTatkal PassportNormal Passport
Processing Time1–3 days7–15 days
FeeHigherStandard
AppointmentPriorityRegular
Police VerificationUsually after issueBefore issue
Best ForUrgent needsRoutine applications

Conclusion

The Tatkal Passport scheme is the perfect solution when you need your passport urgently. With the right documents, proper submission, and complete verification, you can get your passport within 1–3 working days.

At Passportagents.in, we specialize in fast-track passport assistance, Tatkal applications, and complete end-to-end support. Our 24x7 expert team ensures a smooth experience — from form filling to passport delivery, we handle it all so you can travel without delays.

Our office- https://maps.app.goo.gl/3YAfmAeMbDEUFsXW9

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