Online Passport Appointment: How to Schedule, Required Documents, Application Status Tracking, and More

Applying for a passport in India has become significantly more convenient with the introduction of the Passport Seva portal, which allows citizens to submit applications, pay fees, and book appointments entirely online. Whether you are applying for a fresh passport or seeking a reissue of an existing passport, the process remains largely the same and is designed to be transparent and user-friendly.

To begin, applicants must visit the official government portal and fill out the online application form. During this step, you are required to clearly specify the type of passport service you are opting for—either Normal or Tatkaal. The form also requires accurate personal details, family information, emergency contact details, and, in the case of reissue applications, your old passport number.

Once the application form is submitted, the system automatically displays the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO) based on your current residential address. After selecting the appropriate office, applicants must pay the applicable passport fee online. Only after successful payment can an appointment be scheduled for document verification and biometric submission.

Below is a detailed, step-by-step guide to help you understand how to book an online passport appointment, the documents required, and how to track your application status. It is crucial to note that appointment booking is not possible without completing the application form and paying the required fees in advance.

How to Book an Online Passport Appointment: Step-by-Step Guide

The online passport appointment process begins with user registration on the Passport Seva portal. After logging in, applicants must complete the digital application form carefully, ensuring that all information matches their supporting documents.

Once the form is submitted, the portal redirects you to the payment section. After successful payment, you can access the appointment scheduling feature, where available dates and time slots are displayed. Applicants can select a convenient slot based on availability at the assigned Passport Seva Kendra.

After confirming the appointment, a payment receipt and appointment confirmation slip are generated. These documents must be printed or saved digitally, as they are required at the time of your visit to the Passport Seva Kendra.

Documents Required for Passport Appointment

Applicants must carry original documents along with self-attested photocopies for verification at the Passport Seva Kendra. The documents are primarily required to establish proof of address and proof of date of birth.

Proof of Address

Applicants must carry the original copy of any one of the following documents recognized as valid proof of address:

Accepted address proofs typically include Aadhaar Card, Voter ID, electricity or water bills, bank passbook, rent agreement, or other government-issued documents reflecting the current residential address.

Proof of Date of Birth

If you were born before October 1, 2023, you may submit any one of the following documents as proof of date of birth:

These generally include a birth certificate, school leaving certificate, PAN card, or Aadhaar card, depending on eligibility.

If you were born on or after October 1, 2023, it is mandatory to carry the original birth certificate issued by the Municipal Corporation or the Registrar of Births and Deaths. No alternative document is accepted in such cases.

How to Track Passport Application Status Online

After attending the appointment and completing document verification, applicants can track the status of their passport application through the Passport Seva portal. By entering the application reference number and date of birth, users can view real-time updates regarding police verification, printing, and dispatch of the passport.

Status updates are also shared via SMS and email alerts for added convenience.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I reschedule or cancel my passport appointment?

Yes. Applicants can reschedule or cancel their passport appointment by logging into the Passport Seva portal and selecting the “Reschedule Appointment” or “Cancel Appointment” option on the payment confirmation page.

2. What documents must I carry to the Passport Seva Kendra?

You must carry valid proof of address and proof of date of birth in original, along with photocopies. Additional documents may be required depending on the type of application.

3. Can I book a passport appointment without paying the fees?

No. Payment of the applicable passport fee is mandatory before scheduling an appointment. The system does not allow appointment booking without successful online payment.

4. Can I choose a Passport Seva Kendra of my preference?

The Passport Seva Kendra is generally assigned based on your current residential address. However, in some cases, nearby centers may also appear, subject to availability and jurisdiction.

With proper documentation and careful completion of the online process, booking a passport appointment through the Passport Seva portal is smooth and efficient, ensuring timely issuance of one of the most essential travel documents.