How to Find the File Number of Passport: Guide & Steps 2025

Are you wondering how to find the file number of passport? The complexity of dealing with the technicalities that accompany providing passport-related services is usually cumbersome, and having knowledge about vital identifiers can help the process become quite easy, and one of these is how to find the passport file number. Every Indian passport application has a file number, which we can use in everything, including checking the status of our application and beginning the process of renewing our passports. With this detailed read, you will find all the information you need and procedures to follow to easily find the file number of your passport if you have a physical document in your pocket, or even via virtual portals, so that the experience will be smooth in 2025. Let’s learn more about how to find the file number of passport!

How To Find The File Number Of Passport - Step by Step Guide

If you're wondering how to find the file number of a passport? It is not difficult to know how to find the file number of an Indian passport number or passport reference file number, but you must know the location of the same. All the techniques will be discussed in this guide, whether online or offline, so that you will be able to provide an effective search of this crucial alphanumeric code. Steps to go through, whether you have your physical passport and would like to access it digitally, or would have to retrieve it online, are as follows. Let's know more about how to find the file number of a passport!

1. Locating the File Number of a Physical Passport

When wondering about how to find the file number of passport, we happen to have one of the fastest means to identify your passport file number, and this is directly on your passport booklet. This would be quite effective if you have your passport easily accessible.

1. Go to the final page in your passport.

2. Find the lower part of this page.

3. Determine the alphanumerical code: The last page usually consists of a type of file number printed in a smaller font at the bottom. It is normally 12-15 characters, letters, and numbers.

When you have identified a file number, always verify that it is the same against any previous notice of application receipt, or record, you may have, which will be a further check.

2. Retrieving File Number from Passport Seva Portal

The big question here is how to find the file number of passport. The Passport Seva Portal is the best online source of information to get passport services, including the file number of an online applicant. In this approach, you are supposed to be registered on the portal.

1. Access The Passport Seva Portal: You will have to open your web browser and go to the passportindia website

2. Log In Your Account: Log in with the Login ID (email) and password registered with you. In case you forgot your password, then you should use the forgot password tab to reset the password. It is necessary to change the password regularly, e.g., every three months.

3. Go To The "View Saved/Submitted Application" Page: Click on the "View Saved/Submitted Application" area or screen.

4. Find Your Application: Here, you will find the list of your passport applications. Determine the application of interest.

5. Locate Find the File Number:  You will also see the file number (or in short terms, the file number is also known as the Application Reference Number or ARN) along with the details of your application.

Just remember to always go to the official Passport Seva Portal so that they cannot get any of your personal details. Take care of websites that are not official and can try to imitate the official one.

3. Finding File Number on Application Receipt

You can check out your application status by using your acknowledgement receipt, no matter whether you have started it online, or used a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). Your file number is contained in this receipt as well.

1. Find Out The Receipt of Your Application Acknowledgement: It might be a printed copy or an electronic acknowledgement sent to your email address.

2. Locate File Number On The Document: The file number is a big print on the receipt and usually typed as file number or application reference number (ARN).

3. Copy Down The Number: Write down this number so as to use it later.

This receipt is very important to your application record and is usually asked for in several steps of the passport process. Never lose it.

Also Read: Latest Documents Required for Indian Passport Application

What is Passport File Number and Why Is It So Important?

Other, knowing how to find the file number of your passport, you should also know what the passport file number is. The passport file number is a 12-15-digit tracking code based on alphanumeric characters, which is given to each application for an Indian passport. It differs from your real passport number. It is certainly an important part of the whole passport lifecycle since it is used at the initial stages of passport submission, verification by police agencies, and possible passport renewals. In a way, it provides the primary reference point that the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) can use to ensure that it is tracking and managing applications of individuals efficiently.

Understanding how to find the file number of an Indian passport, this will sometimes be called a passport tracking number or an application reference number, which details its primary use. It makes sure that your given application can be identified easily and the progress of such application can be traced consistently through its different levels as it goes through the different steps of the process. Without this number, it would become insanely difficult to discover the advancement of your passport, answer the inquiries, or even apply for some of the services in the future. Let’s know more on how to find the file number of passport and what is passport file number!

Components of an Indian Passport File Number

When you are trying to understand how to find the file number of passport, knowing how to find the file number of an Indian passport gives you some ideas about its source and how it is processed. Although the format could be slightly different over time, it contains several main elements.

• City/State Code: The initial 2-3 characters of the file number indicate the city or state in which you sent your application to the passport, and it was received and processed. This will assist in locating the Regional Passport Office (RPO) or Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) to which your application will fall.

• Application Year: The number has a segment giving the year during which one applied during the passport application process, usually two or four digits.

• Unique Serial Number: The essence of a file number is a distinctive number of figures that are allocated to your distinct application in that RPO and the year. This will make the file numbers of these two applications different.

• Office Identifier (Optional): It may be a non-empty set of characters further identifying the incident-specific processing office or batch.

Example of File Number Structure in Passport

Here is a table that will help you understand how to find the file number of passport:

What is the Difference Between a Passport Number and a File Number? Explained

When you are trying to understand how to find the file number of a passport, it's a common misconception to confuse the passport number with the file number. While both are unique identifiers related to your passport, they serve entirely different purposes. Let’s learn more about how to find the file number of passport!

The passport number is your primary travel document identifier, used for visa applications, flight bookings, and immigration checks. The file number, on the other hand, is an administrative identifier used by the passport authorities to manage your application.

Latest Methods to Track Passport Status Using File Number in 2025

When learning about how to find the file number of a passport, one should also keep in mind that the passport file number becomes the key to monitoring the status of your application and the status of your application in real time. This particularly comes in handy to track progress at its multiple stages, such as police check and dispatch.

Tracking Overseas by means of Passport Seva Website

Passport Seva Portal has an effective e-tracking application, which gives comprehensive details of the application status.

1. Check the Passport Seva Portal: Open the Passport India website.

2. Go to "Track Application Status": In the home page, scroll up and down and find the link that reads "Track Application Status".

3. Application Type: Select the appropriate dropdown menu application type (e.g., Passport/PCC/IC/GEP).

4. Enter File Number and Date of Birth: Put your 12-15 digit file number in the box. Next, sequentially enter your date of birth in DD/MM/YYYY pattern.

5. Click Track Status: You will be able to see the current status of your application, such as the application status that was made, the status of verification made in the police, printing status, as well as the dispatch status made in the system.

Always monitor your status, particularly when you expect your status to be vetted by the police or when the expected dispatch date is close. Technical updates on the portal can lock you on a new interface: watch this aspect.

SMS and Mobile Tracking Options

For convenience, the Passport Seva system also offers SMS and mobile application-based tracking options, allowing you to get updates on the go.

1. SMS Service

• Type STATUS (e.g., STATUS BL25123456789).
• Send this SMS to 9704100100.
• You will receive an SMS reply with your current application status. Standard SMS charges may apply.

2. Passport Seva App

• Download and install the official "mPassport Seva" app from your smartphone's app store (Google Play Store for Android, Apple App Store for iOS).
• Open the app and select the "Status Tracker" or "Track Application Status" option.
• Enter your file number and date of birth.
• The app will display your passport application status.

These mobile options are excellent for quick checks, but for detailed information or to resolve complex issues, the online portal remains the primary resource.

Also Read: Affidavit for Passport: Updated Rules, Formats & Guide

What to Do If You Lost Your Passport File Number? Experts Tips & Guide 2025

The most important question is how to find the file number of passport, but what if you lose your passport? You may lose an important number on your passport file, which you are worried about, and yet there are a number of sure ways you will reacquire it. The Passport Seva system provides measures that would assist the applicants in retrieving this essential information.

Recovering File Number Without Login Information

Even when you are not able to log in to your Passport Seva account or have lost its receipt, you can find alternative methods to receive the file number.

1. Email/SMS Check: Scrutinise your registered email account and SMS messages since the time you applied to get a passport. The Passport Seva system puts up automated messages, which contain your file number at the different stages of the application. Look up words such as "Passport application," File Number or ARN in your email.

2. Application Type and Date of Birth: Occasionally, even when you have not yet received a file number, the date of birth and the type of application can be entered at the "Track Application Status" section to retrieve the basic status of the application within the Passport Seva Portal. Even though it may not necessarily show the file number, it can notify you on whether or not your application exists.

Contacting Passport Seva Kendra for Assistance

In case the online and mobile ways do not work, then the best thing to do is call the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or the National Call Centre.

1. National Call Centre:

• Call Toll-free number 1800-258-1800.

• Submit your information, including your full name, date of birth, among any other identifying information that relates to your application. The executive can be in a position to access your file number with such information.

2. Go to The Closest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK):

• Though it is advisable that you fix an appointment, you can also visit the help desk of your nearest PSK/POPSK.

• Tell the authorities about your case.

• Be ready to show identification papers and any other supporting documents to the application (even without the file number) to prove your identity. They can search your application by your name, date of birth, and other personal information.

• They may direct you in the procedure of getting your file number or help you with your question itself.

• It is a good practice to travel with valid identification cards when travelling to a PSK or POPSK.

Common Issues and Troubleshooting Tips for File Number Retrieval in Passport 2025

While the process of finding your passport file number is generally smooth, you might encounter some common issues. Here’s how to troubleshoot them.

Issue: File Number Not Working for Tracking

If you are entering your file number for tracking, but the system isn't providing updates, consider these possibilities:

• Typographical Errors: Double-check the file number you are entering. Even a single digit or letter error can lead to an incorrect lookup.

• Incorrect Application Type: Ensure you have selected the correct "Application Type" on the tracking portal. Mismatching this can lead to retrieval failures.

• Initial Processing Delay: Immediately after submitting your application, there might be a short delay (a few hours to 1-2 business days) before your file number becomes active in the online tracking system.

• System Maintenance: Occasionally, the Passport Seva Portal might be undergoing maintenance. Try again after some time.

• Browser Compatibility Issues: Ensure you are using a compatible web browser and that your browser's cache and cookies are cleared.

Issue: Discrepancies in File Number Format

While the standard is 12-15 digits, you might encounter slight variations.

• Historical Formats: Older file numbers might have a slightly different structure. If you are trying to retrieve a very old application's file number, this could be a factor. The current standardised system ensures consistency for newer applications.

• Leading/Trailing Characters: Ensure you are not including any accidental spaces or special characters when entering the file number. It should be a continuous alphanumeric string.

Latest Security and Privacy Considerations for Passport File Numbers in 2025

Your passport file number, like other personal identifiers, should be protected to prevent misuse.

Safe Storage of File Number Information

Here is more information on how to find the file number of passport and file number information:

• Secure Digital Storage: If you store the file number digitally (e.g., on your phone or computer), use encrypted documents or secure note-taking apps. Avoid storing it in easily accessible, unencrypted files.

• Physical Records: Keep physical copies of your application receipt and passport in a safe and secure location, separate from your wallet or purse.

• Limited Sharing: Only share your file number with authorised individuals or official government portals when absolutely necessary. Be wary of unsolicited requests for this information.

• Official Channels Only: Always use the official Passport Seva Portal (www.passportindia.gov.in) for any online interactions related to your passport. Be vigilant against phishing websites that mimic official government sites.

• Security Best Practices: Regularly update your passwords for online accounts related to passport services. Be cautious of public Wi-Fi networks when accessing sensitive information.

File Number Requirements for Different Passport Services

The file number is not just for initial tracking; it's a fundamental requirement for various other passport-related services throughout your passport's validity. Let’s know more on how to find the file number of passport!

Using File Number for Passport Renewal

When you apply for a passport renewal, your old passport's details, including the file number from its original application, are often referenced.

• Linking Previous Applications: The file number helps the system link your new renewal application with your past passport records, streamlining the verification process.

• Required Information: While the renewal application primarily requires your existing passport number, the file number from your previous application can be useful for internal cross-referencing by passport authorities, especially if there are any discrepancies or specific historical checks needed.

• Tracking Renewal Status: Once you apply for a renewal, a new file number will be generated for the renewal application. You will use this new file number to track the status of your renewal.

File Number in Emergency Travel Documents

In situations requiring an Emergency Certificate (EC) for one-way travel to India due to a lost, damaged, or expired passport, the file number from your original passport application can be crucial.

• Verification: When applying for an EC, the authorities often need to verify your identity and previous passport details. Having your original passport's file number can significantly expedite this verification process, especially if you do not have a photocopy of your lost/damaged passport.

• Facilitating Issuance: While an EC is a temporary travel document, providing details like your old file number helps the Indian Mission or Post quickly access your passport history, confirming your Indian nationality, and facilitating the issuance of the emergency document.

Also Read: Indian Passport Renewal Document Checklist: Latest Guide 

Latest Facts and News 

Here are some latest facts and news about how to find the file number of passport:

• Starting 2025, the portal- Passport Seva portal has improved the security aspect of retrieving the file number

• All Indian passports have a uniform system of 1215-digit alphanumeric file code numbers

• In 2024, the Ministry of External Affairs handled more than 6.8 million passport applications, and this makes tracking of file numbers essential.

• The latest version has enabled candidates to check lost file numbers in various ways.

• The new passport file number generation system, via biometric incorporation in 2025, has simplified the generation process of the file number

• Digital passport services also include file number updates in SMS messages and emails in real-time.

• In 2024, the increase in delays in Police verification has risen by 15%, and that is why tracking file numbers will be more significant

Conclusion

How to find the file number of passport? The passport file number is more than just a sequence of characters; it's the lifeline of your Indian passport application journey. From its initial assignment at the time of application to its utility in tracking status, facilitating renewals, and even aiding in emergency travel, this unique alphanumeric code is indispensable. Understanding where to find it—whether on your physical passport, through the Passport Seva Portal, or on your application receipt—empowers you to stay informed and manage your passport-related needs efficiently.

By recognising its importance and knowing the methods for retrieval and usage, Indian travellers can navigate the passport system with confidence and ease. Always remember to safeguard your file number and utilise the official channels for all passport services to ensure a secure and smooth experience. In this blog, we understood how to find the file number of a passport and to learn more on the same visit, TerraTern!