Getting an Indian passport is simple when you know the correct documents to prepare. A passport is an official identity and travel document issued by the Government of India. It is used not only for international travel but also as a strong proof of identity and address inside the country. Many applications are delayed because people bring incomplete documents, incorrect address proofs or certificates that do not match their personal details. This guide explains all the documents required for passport in India whether you need for a fresh passport, renewal, tatkaal passport, minor passport and special cases.
The goal of this article is to make the entire process clear, easy and practical. It includes step by step instructions, detailed checklists, common mistakes and a complete FAQ section. You can also refer to the official government portal for updates: https://www.passportindia.gov.in
India mainly issues the following types of passports:
For a fresh passport you generally need three categories of proof. These are Proof of Date of Birth, Proof of Address and Identity Proof. You must submit originals at the Passport Seva Kendra for verification and attach self attested photocopies with your application.
Source: Passport Seva document advisor. Document list for fresh passport
| Accepted Documents | Notes |
|---|---|
| Aadhaar Card | Most preferred. Ensure address is current. |
| Voter ID | Good if it shows current address and clear photo. |
| Electricity, Water or Telephone bill | Use recent bills within past 12 months. |
| Registered Rent Agreement | Only registered agreement is accepted as address proof. |
| Bank Passbook or Statement | Must show current address. If statement is older, it may be rejected. |
| Income Tax Assessment Order | Useful for those who file ITR. |
Complete list of acceptable documents is maintained on Passport Seva: List of acceptable documents
Renewal is needed when passport is expired, damaged, lost or visa pages are exhausted. The main document is the existing passport.
Passport reissue document guidance: Documents for reissue
Tatkaal is for urgent travel. Along with normal proofs, there are extra requirements and affidavit forms.
Tatkaal documents summary: Tatkaal passport page
Guidelines for minor photographs and other details are given here: Photo guidelines for minors
Follow the official photo rules or your application may be delayed.
Official photo rules and specifications: Passport photo and application instructions
Go to the Passport Seva website and register using your mobile number and email. After registration you will get a login to complete the form.
Choose the correct application type: Fresh, Reissue, Tatkaal and provide accurate personal details. Use the exact spelling as on your documents. Save and print the application summary if needed.
The portal allows uploading certain documents. For most cases you still need to carry originals and photocopies to the Passport Seva Kendra for verification. Attach self attested copies with the printed application when asked.
Pay via debit card, credit card, net banking or UPI. You will receive an acknowledgement and a Payment Receipt Number. Fees vary by passport type and number of pages. Use the fee calculator on the portal to confirm the exact charge. Passport fee calculator
Choose the nearest Passport Seva Kendra or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra and book a convenient date and time for document submission and biometric capture.
Take original documents, one set of self attested photocopies, appointment receipt and photos. At the PSK your documents will be verified, fingerprints and photograph will be captured, and you will receive a token number.
Police verification normally happens after PSK visit. There are three police verification modes: Pre, Post and No verification required mode depending on your case. In many straightforward applications police verification is carried out after you visit the PSK. The Passport Seva portal will show the verification mode for your application.
Typical police verification timelines and notes
After successful police verification the passport is printed and dispatched by speed post. You will get SMS and email updates with the tracking link once it is sent.
| Service | Typical Fee | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh or Reissue Passport 36 pages | Rs. 1,500 | 10 year validity for adults |
| Fresh or Reissue Passport 60 pages | Rs. 2,000 | Higher fee, useful for frequent travellers |
| Tatkaal Passport (36 pages) | Approx Rs. 3,500 | Extra fee over normal charge for urgent processing |
| Minor passport | Rs. 1,000 | Five year validity or until 18 years of age, whichever is earlier |
Always confirm the exact fee using the official fee calculator: Passport fee calculator
For non standard or government service cases check the Passport Seva annexures page: Annexures and forms
Yes. Aadhaar is accepted as both identity proof and address proof in most cases. However, if your Aadhaar does not show your current address, you must provide another address proof. The Passport Seva Kendra may also ask for additional supporting documents depending on your profile.
Yes. If you do not have a birth certificate, you can use other accepted documents such as a School Leaving Certificate, Matriculation Certificate or PAN card that shows your date of birth. Accepted date of birth documents are listed here: Passport Seva Document Advisor
Only one address proof is usually required unless the document is unclear or outdated. Commonly used proofs include Aadhaar, Voter ID, electricity bills or registered rent agreements. The address on your proof must match the address you enter in your application form.
Aadhaar Card is the simplest and most widely accepted address proof because it contains updated information and is easy to verify. If your Aadhaar is not updated, use a recent electricity bill, water bill or registered rent agreement.
Most fresh passport applications require police verification. Some renewal cases may be eligible for pre-approved verification depending on your previous passport details. Police verification modes are explained here: PVR Mode Details
You should keep your address proof, identity proof, hard copy of your application receipt, and any supporting documents used during the PSK visit. Police may request additional documents if your address history is long or unclear.
Most cities complete verification within 5 to 7 working days. Smaller towns may take 10 to 21 days. Tatkaal applications may have a different verification route. Processing time details are available in Ministry of External Affairs responses: MEA Response
You should correct the document before applying. Even small differences in spelling or initials can delay your application. Passport offices do not accept handwritten corrections. Submit clean, updated and consistent documents.
No. Only a registered rent agreement is accepted. Unregistered rent agreements or simple notarised agreements are not valid. If you do not have a registered agreement, use another proof such as Aadhaar, electricity bill or bank statement.
Minors need a birth certificate, passport copies of parents if available, and Annexure D signed by parents. If only one parent is present or if parents are divorced, additional affidavits like Annexure C or G may be required. Guidelines for minor applicants are detailed here: Minor Photo Guidelines
PSKs capture your photograph during the appointment, but you should still carry printed passport size photos. These may be needed for Annexures, police verification or additional documentation requested by authorities.
Tatkaal applications need standard documents plus Annexure F or Annexure I depending on the case. You may also need to show proof of urgency. Tatkaal rules and lists are given here: Tatkaal Passport
Your application may be put on hold or rejected. You will be informed through SMS or email. You can reapply after correcting the issues. If verification failed due to an address mismatch, prepare a valid address proof before reapplying.
Yes. If you want to change your name after marriage, divorce or personal reasons, you must provide documents such as a marriage certificate, divorce decree or an affidavit for name change. The complete list of annexures for name change is available here: Passport Annexures
You can use the official Document Advisor tool. It gives a customised list based on your application type and profile: Document Advisor
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