How Can I Apply for Passport Online in 2025? Latest Guide

Written by

Inayat Sharma

Fact check by

Shreya Pandey

Updated on

May 01,2025

How Can I Apply for Passport? A Complete Guide for 2025 - TerraTern

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How can I apply for a passport in 2025? Is this the biggest question looming in your head right now? But I am unsure where to begin. You're not alone. With the Indian government continuously upgrading its systems, applying for a passport has become more streamlined, digital, and accessible than ever before. Whether it's your first time applying or you're looking to renew an old one, understanding the latest processes is crucial. This complete guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how can I apply for passport in India and how can apply for Tatkal passport.

Latest Facts and News Related to Passport Applications

  • Over 10 million passports were issued in India in 2024.

  • The Passport Seva portal now supports e-passport applications with enhanced security features.

  • Tatkal passport processing time has been reduced to 3-5 days.

  • Aadhaar is now mandatory for online passport applications in India.

  • The Ministry of External Affairs has introduced AI-based tracking for faster grievance resolution.

  • Walk-in appointments are available at select Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs).

  • Digital police verification has reduced delays in the verification process.

  • Over 85% of passport applications are now processed online.

  • A new "Passport Lite" option is available for frequent travellers with fewer pages.

  • The government plans to integrate DigiLocker for document uploads.

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What Is the Process to Apply for a Passport Online?

How can I apply for passport in India? But the biggest question is where to apply for a passport online. Thanks to the Passport Seva portal, applying for a passport online has never been easier. From creating an account to visiting a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK), every step can be completed with minimal hassle if you follow the procedure correctly. If you're wondering "how can i apply for passport online? ," this section breaks down the complete process.

Step 1 - Register on the Passport Seva Portal

To begin your passport application journey, you must first create an account on the official Passport Seva portal.

  • Visit the Passport Seva official website.

  • Click on "New User Registration."

  • Fill in details like name, date of birth, email ID, and mobile number.

  • Choose a unique login ID and password.

  • Verify your email address to activate the account.

Step 2 - Fill Out the Application Form

Once registered, the next step is to fill out the application form.

  • Log in using your credentials.

  • Select "Apply for Fresh Passport/Reissue of Passport."

  • Fill in personal, family, and present address details.

  • Carefully review all entered data to avoid errors.

Step 3 - Upload Required Documents

Supporting documents play a key role in passport processing.

Document Type

Accepted Examples

Proof of Address

Aadhaar card, electricity bill, rental agreement

Proof of Date of Birth

Birth certificate, Class 10 certificate, PAN card

Ensure that the uploaded documents are clear and in acceptable formats (PDF/JPEG).

Step 4 - Pay Fees and Schedule an Appointment

After filling in the details, the next step is payment and appointment booking.

  • Pay using net banking, credit/debit cards.

  • Fee depends on the type of passport (normal or Tatkal).

  • Choose your nearest PSK and select a time slot.

Step 5 - Visit the PSK

Your physical presence at the PSK is mandatory to complete the process.

  • Carry originals of all uploaded documents.

  • Bring your appointment confirmation receipt.

  • Undergo biometric data capture and document verification.

Also Read: Can I Change Date of Birth in Passport? Experts Guide 

How Can I Apply for Tatkal Passport?

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When the question arises of how I can apply for a Tatkal passport, one should know that the Tatkal scheme is ideal for those needing a passport urgently. It ensures quicker processing but requires additional documentation and higher fees. Here's everything you need to know about how to apply for Tatkal passport. Let’s know more about how I can apply for a Tatkal passport!

Steps to Apply Under the Tatkal Scheme

If time is of the essence, the Tatkal passport application process can help expedite your passport needs.

  • Register on the Passport Seva portal as described earlier.

  • Select the "Tatkal" option while filling the application.

  • Pay the Tatkal fee using the available online methods.

  • Schedule an appointment at your nearest PSK.

  • Attend the appointment with all necessary original documents.

Also Read: How to Change Passport Appointment Date? Experts Guide 

Documents Required for Tatkal Passport

Tatkal applications require extra documentation to justify urgency.

Document Type

Accepted Examples

Proof of Identity

Aadhaar card, PAN card, Voter ID

Proof of Urgency

Confirmed travel tickets, medical reports

Additional Documents

Annexure F or I as required

Types of Passports Issued in India

How can I apply for a passport online? But Before applying for a passport, it’s essential to understand the different types of passports available in India. Based on your needs, be it travel, work, or diplomatic service, you may qualify for specific categories. This section outlines the different passports issued and their specific purposes.

Type of Passport

Color

Purpose

Ordinary Passport

Navy Blue

General travel for citizens

Diplomatic Passport

Maroon

Issued to diplomats and officials

Official Passport

White

For government employees on duty

E-Passport

Navy Blue

With an embedded chip for security

Passport Lite

Navy Blue

Fewer pages, frequent travellers

How Can I Apply for Passport Online in India?

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India's diverse regional needs have led to a more inclusive passport application process. If you're wondering how can i apply for passport online in India with respect to language and local norms, this section provides the answers. Let’s find out how can i apply for passport online in India.

Regional Requirements and Language Support

The Passport Seva portal now offers several regional advantages for applicants.

  • Forms are available in regional languages like Hindi, Tamil, and Bengali.

  • State-specific police verification procedures may apply.

  • Local help desks at PSKs provide assistance in native languages.

  • Some states allow digital verification from local authorities, reducing processing time.

Also Read: Latest Documents Required for a Lost Indian Passport

Common Mistakes to Avoid While Applying

Avoiding common mistakes can save time, money, and effort in the long run. Below is a list of frequent errors applicants make and how to steer clear of them.

  • Uploading blurry or incorrect documents.

  • Providing mismatched addresses on various proofs.

  • Choosing the wrong application type (Fresh vs. Reissue).

  • Missing scheduled PSK appointments.

  • The original documents were not carried during the PSK visit.

  • Entering incorrect details in the form, such as spelling errors.

  • Not checking the police verification requirements for your locality.

Reissue of Passport: When and How?

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How can I apply for passport but is your passport is expired? There are several situations where reapplying for a passport becomes necessary, ranging from expiry and physical damage to changes in personal information like name or address. The passport reissue process in 2025 is streamlined and largely mirrors the process for a fresh passport, with minor differences in documentation. Understanding these requirements in advance ensures a hassle-free experience and prevents delays, especially when travel dates are near.

Common Reasons for Reissue

A passport can be reissued under various circumstances. Here are the most frequent ones:

  • Expired Passport: Most Indian passports are valid for 10 years (for adults) and must be reissued upon expiry or within one year before the expiry date.

  • Exhausted Pages: Frequent travellers may run out of blank pages before the validity ends, necessitating a reissue.

  • Name/Address Change: Any change in personal details—due to marriage, divorce, legal name change, or relocation—requires passport reissuance.

  • Lost/Damaged Passport: If your passport is lost, stolen, or significantly damaged, you’ll need to apply for a reissue with additional documents like an FIR and affidavit.

Steps to Reissue a Passport

Reissuing a passport is nearly identical to applying for a fresh passport, with a few added steps depending on the reason for reissue.

Steps

Action

Step 1

Register/Login to the Passport Seva portal. If you already have an account, use the same login credentials.

Step 2

Select “Reissue of Passport” from the application type. You will need to specify the reason (expiry, name change, etc.).

Step 3

Fill the application form accurately. Avoid typos and inconsistencies, especially in personal details.

Step 4

Upload supporting documents. The required list varies based on your reason for reissue (see below).

Step 5

Pay the applicable fees online. Charges are typically the same as those for fresh passport applications unless applied under Tatkal.

Step 6

Schedule an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).

Step 7

Visit the PSK with all original documents, including your old passport. Complete biometric capture and verification.

 

Additional Documents for Reissue (Based on Reason)

Reason for Reissue

Documents Required

Expired Passport

Original passport, self-attested copies of first and last page, address proof, and current passport-size photos.

Exhausted Pages

Original passport, address proof, and reissue form. No additional documents needed unless details change.

Name Change (After Marriage/Divorce)

Marriage certificate/divorce decree, affidavit (Annexure D or K), and updated address proof.

Lost Passport

FIR copy, affidavit (Annexure F), old passport copy (if available), and a declaration.

Damaged Passport

Damaged passport, affidavit stating the damage, and usual identity/address documents.

Also Read: How to Apply for Lost Passport? Step-by-Step Guide

DigiLocker Integration for Document Uploads

The future is paperless, and passport applications in India are rapidly embracing this change. With the government’s move to integrate DigiLocker into the Passport Seva system, applicants can now upload and verify their documents digitally, minimising paperwork and reducing the risk of errors. This digital integration makes the process more secure, efficient, and transparent. Let’s explore how DigiLocker works and why it’s a game-changer for passport seekers in 2025.

How DigiLocker Works in Passport Applications?

DigiLocker is a secure, cloud-based platform for storing and sharing government-issued documents in digital form. Its integration into passport services makes documentation seamless and largely eliminates the need for physical copies.

Feature

Description

Account Linking

During registration on the Passport Seva Portal, you can link your DigiLocker account using Aadhaar-based verification.

Document Upload

Key documents like Aadhaar card, PAN card, Class 10 certificate, and birth certificate can be fetched directly from issuing authorities through DigiLocker.

Automatic Validation

Since documents are digitally verified, the chances of rejection due to mismatches or unclear scans are significantly reduced.

Real-Time Sync

Changes or updates in DigiLocker are reflected in real time, ensuring your most recent documents are always accessible during the application.

 

Benefits of Using DigiLocker for Passport Applications

Using DigiLocker offers multiple advantages to applicants:

  • Faster Application Time: You save time uploading and organising physical documents.

  • Error Reduction: Official documents pulled from verified government databases reduce discrepancies.

  • Convenience: Apply from anywhere without carrying physical papers to the PSK.

  • Security: DigiLocker is encrypted and Aadhaar-secured, ensuring your data remains safe.

  • Eco-Friendly: Paperless applications help reduce environmental impact.

 Documents Commonly Available on DigiLocker

Document

Source

Aadhaar Card

UIDAI

PAN Card

Income Tax Department

Birth Certificate

Municipal Corporations (for select states)

Class 10/12 Certificates

CBSE, CISCE, and state boards

Driving License

RTOs (for selected states)

Voter ID

Election Commission of India

Conclusion

How can I apply for passport in 2025 is a simplified process, thanks to digital innovations and government reforms. Whether you opt for a normal or Tatkal passport, following the outlined steps can ensure a smooth experience. From registering on the Passport Seva portal to preparing for your PSK visit, every step has been optimised for speed and convenience. Be sure to double-check your documents and details to avoid unnecessary delays. To learn more about the passport and immigration-related processes, visit TerraTern now!

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Inayat Sharma

Content Marketing Specialist

Inayat is pursuing a double major in Media and Communication with English Hons in Bangalore. She has more than 4 years of experience as a writer in the Immigration industry. In her role, she developed content for various mediums, including websites, blogs, and social media posts.

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At TerraTern, we adhere to a stringent editorial policy emphasizing factual accuracy, impartiality, and relevance. Our content is curated by experienced industry professionals, and reviewed by editors to ensure high standards.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What documents are needed to apply for a passport?

To apply for a passport in India, you generally need proof of identity, proof of address, and proof of date of birth. Common documents include Aadhaar card, voter ID, utility bills, and birth certificate or Class 10 certificate. Depending on your application type—fresh, reissue, or Tatkal—additional documents like affidavits, old passport, or police verification reports may be required.

How long does it take to get a Tatkal passport?

Tatkal passports are processed on a priority basis and are typically issued within 3 to 5 working days after the successful completion of document verification and biometric procedures. The Tatkal scheme fast-tracks both the appointment scheduling and the final dispatch of the passport, provided all documents are valid and police verification is either cleared instantly or done post-issuance.

Can I reschedule my PSK appointment?

Yes, you can reschedule your appointment at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) online through the Passport Seva Portal. However, this option is limited to two reschedules per application, so plan your availability carefully. If you miss your appointment or don’t reschedule in time, your application may be canceled, and the fees will not be refunded.

Is Aadhaar mandatory for all applicants?

Yes, as of 2025, Aadhaar has become a mandatory document for online passport applications in India. It serves as both identity and address proof, streamlining the application process. While alternative documents can still be used in exceptional cases or for minors without Aadhaar, having an Aadhaar number ensures faster verification and fewer rejections due to mismatched information.

What happens if my application is rejected?

If your passport application is rejected, you will receive a notification stating the reasons—this could be due to incomplete documentation, inconsistencies in personal details, failure in police verification, or non-compliance with guidelines. You will not receive a refund for the application fee. However, you can reapply after rectifying the issues. It's essential to carefully review all submitted information, upload correct documents, and attend your PSK appointment on time to avoid rejection. If you're unsure about the reason, the Passport Seva portal allows you to raise a query or grievance through its helpdesk or AI-based tracking system.