Passport Renewal In India: What To Do, What To Carry, And What Not To Mess Up

If your passport is nearing its expiry date, has run out of pages, or requires an update in your name or address, it is time to apply for a renewal. The good news is that renewing an Indian passport is now extremely convenient. Thanks to the online Passport Seva system, you can apply for a re‑issue or renew your passport without needing police verification in certain cases. However, understanding the exact process, required documents, common pitfalls, and cost can help you avoid unnecessary confusion. Whether you are applying under the normal or Tatkal category, here is a straightforward guide to renewing your Indian passport.

Also Read: How To Apply For Passport In India: Steps, Documents And Everything Else To Know

How To Renew Your Passport Online In India

Follow these steps to complete your passport renewal:

1. Register On The Passport Seva Portal

• Visit the official Passport Seva Portal
• If you are a new user, click on “New User Registration”
• Create your login credentials using your email ID and personal details

2. Fill Out The Passport Renewal Application

• Log in and choose “re‑issue of passport” on the overview page
• Click on “Apply for fresh passport/re‑issue of passport”
• Select the reason for renewal: expiring passport, exhaustion of pages, or change in details
• Fill out the form with updated information
• Review the form thoroughly before submitting

3. Pay The Online Application Fee

• Click on “Pay and Schedule Appointment”
• Choose your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK), Post Office PSK (POPSK), or Regional Passport Office (RPO)
• Pay the applicable renewal fee online via card, UPI, or net banking

4. Schedule Your Appointment Slot

• Select a convenient appointment time and date
• Download and print the appointment confirmation receipt

5. Visit The PSK Or POPSK With Documents

• Carry original documents along with self‑attested photocopies
• Your documents will be verified at the centre
• Biometrics (photograph and fingerprints) will be taken
• You may also be interviewed by a passport officer

6. Police Verification Process (If Required)

• Police verification is not required in all cases
• It is mandatory if your passport expired more than three years ago or if your current address has changed
• If it applies, a local police officer will visit your residence for verification

7. Track Your Passport Application Status Online

• Use the “Track Application Status” option under the “Services” tab on the Passport Seva Portal
• Enter your application number and file number
• Track real‑time updates on your passport status

Documents Required For Passport Renewal In India

Ensure you carry the following original documents along with self‑attested photocopies:

1. Old Passport (Mandatory)

• Self‑attested copies of the first and last two pages
• Any observation pages issued by the Passport Authority
• Self‑attested copy of ECR (Emigration Check Required) or Non‑ECR page

2. Proof Of Address (Submit Any One)

• Aadhaar Card
• Voter ID
• Electricity, water, or phone bill (within the last 12 months)
• Bank passbook or bank statement
• Registered rent agreement

3. Proof Of Date Of Birth

• Birth certificate
• School leaving certificate
• PAN card
• Aadhaar card

All documents must be valid and up‑to‑date at the time of submission.

Passport Renewal Charges In India: Normal And Tatkal Fees

Photo: Unsplash

An online “Fee Calculator” is available on the Passport Seva Portal. Typical charges are:

Adults (18+ years):

• Rs 1,500 for a 36‑page booklet

• Rs 3,500 for a Tatkal passport (36‑page)

• Rs 2,000 for a 60‑page booklet

• Rs 4,000 for a Tatkal passport (60‑page)

Minors (Below 18 years):

• Rs 1,000 for a 36‑page booklet

• Rs 3,000 for a Tatkal passport

Who Can Apply For Passport Renewal In India?

Anyone who meets the following criteria is eligible:

• Must be an Indian citizen by birth, descent, registration, or naturalisation
• Must not have any pending criminal proceedings or arrest warrants
• For minors, consent from both parents or legal guardians is required
• For Tatkal applications, additional document verification may be needed

Most Common Passport Renewal Mistakes In India

Photo: Unsplash

Avoid these frequent errors to prevent delays:

• Incorrect spelling of name, date of birth or address

• Missing essential documents such as ECNR/Class X mark‑sheet

• Submitting blurred or unclear photocopies

• Cancelling or rescheduling your appointment more than three times

• Failing to include marriage certificate or Annexure J when adding spouse's name for the first time

New Rules You Should Know: Biometric Passports And Marriage Certificate

Prepare for these important updates:

• India began issuing biometric (“e‑passport”) passports in 2025, piloted in select cities

• Since November 2024, a marriage certificate or Annexure J is mandatory for adding a spouse's name for the first time

Also Read: 7 Life Lessons You Only Learn While Travelling, Not In School

Here Are Common Doubts People Are Asking About Passport Renewal:

1. When should I apply for renewal before my passport expires?

You may apply up to one year before the expiry date. Early renewal helps avoid delays and ensures uninterrupted travel.

2. Is a marriage certificate mandatory to renew my passport?

Photo: Unsplash

Not for renewal alone. It is required only if you are adding your spouse's name for the first time.

3. How long does police verification take?

Police verification usually takes between one and three weeks, depending on the local police station's workload.

4. What documents are needed if I am changing my name after marriage?

Carry your marriage certificate or Annexure J, your current passport, proof of new address and identity, and updated PAN or Aadhaar if applicable.