The Indian e-Passport is the new standard travel document for all citizens, featuring an electronic chip for advanced security. This comprehensive guide from Evaakil.com details the complete application process.
We provide interactive document checklists for fresh, re-issue, and Tatkaal applications, an official fee breakdown, and a clear explanation of the police verification process. This guide also covers the legal framework from The Passports Act, 1967, and procedures for special cases, NRIs, and handling application rejections.
A Citizen’s Guide to the Indian e-Passport
Application checklists, legal rules, and procedures.
What is the Indian e-Passport?
The Indian e-Passport is the new standard for all Indian citizens. It is not an optional document. All new passports issued and all passports renewed are now e-Passports by default. You do not need to fill a separate form or pay an extra fee for it.
The e-Passport looks almost identical to the old passport booklet, but it has a small, gold-colored chip symbol on the cover. This symbol indicates it contains an electronic microprocessor chip.
Passport Evolution
Traditional Passport
Paper booklet with printed data.
e-Passport (New Standard)
Paper booklet + embedded RFID chip with digitally signed data.
Core Features and Benefits
- Advanced Security: The chip stores your personal details and photograph. This data is digitally signed by the Government of India. This process makes the passport extremely difficult to forge or tamper with.
- ICAO Compliance: The e-Passport follows the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). This ensures it works with border control systems and e-gates worldwide.
- Faster Immigration: The chip allows for automated identity verification at e-gates in many airports. This can lead to faster and smoother travel.
What about my old passport?
All traditional, non-electronic passports remain fully valid for international travel until their printed expiry date. You do not need to replace your old passport before it expires. When you apply for renewal, you will automatically receive the new e-Passport.
The Legal Foundation: The Passports Act, 1967
All passport issuance in India is governed by The Passports Act, 1967. This law gives the Central Government the authority to issue, refuse, or revoke passports.
The Act allows the government to prescribe the “form” and “conditions” for a passport. The new e-Passport is a change in this “form”. The government used its existing powers under this Act to introduce the new e-Passport. It did not require a new law.
This law also defines offenses. Section 12 of the Act makes it an offense to “knowingly furnish any false information or suppress any material information” to get a passport. This is why all declarations you sign (Annexures) are legally binding.
e-Passport Security & Data Privacy
The electronic chip is the e-Passport’s primary security enhancement. It is not just a storage device; it is a secure element protected by multiple layers of technology, adhering to ICAO standards.
How the Chip is Secured
- Basic Access Control (BAC): The chip cannot be read wirelessly by a casual scanner. A passport reader must first scan the visual data on the passport’s data page (the Machine Readable Zone or MRZ) to generate a key. Only this key can “unlock” the chip for reading.
- Digital Signature: The data on the chip (your photo, name, DOB, etc.) is digitally signed by the Government of India. If anyone attempts to alter this data, the digital signature will break, and border control systems will immediately detect it as tampered.
- Data Shielding: The passport booklet itself is designed to shield the chip when closed, preventing unauthorized “skimming” in public places.
1. BAC Access
Chip is locked. Can only be read by an official reader scanning the printed MRZ.
2. Digital Signature
Data is cryptographically signed. Any forgery breaks the signature.
3. Shielding
The closed passport booklet blocks unauthorized wireless reading attempts.
Legal Framework for Data Privacy
The collection and storage of your biometric and personal data by the government are regulated. While The Passports Act, 1967, is the primary law, the processing of this data also falls under the umbrella of India’s broader data protection rules.
The Digital Personal Data Protection (DPDP) Act, 2023, establishes the rights of citizens (Data Principals) and the obligations of data processors (Data Fiduciaries). In this context, the Ministry of External Affairs acts as a Data Fiduciary. It has a legal duty to protect your passport data from breaches, use it only for its stated purpose (issuance and verification), and retain it only as long as necessary.
The Official Application Process
Official Website Warning: The *only* official website for passport services in India is www.passportindia.gov.in. The Ministry of External Affairs warns against using any other fraudulent, look-alike websites that illegally collect fees and data.
Step-by-Step for Applicants in India
-
Register: Create an account on the official portal:
www.passportindia.gov.in. - Fill Form: Log in and fill out the online application form with your details (Applicant, Family, Address, etc.).
- Pay Fee: Pay the application fee online. Payment is mandatory to book an appointment. The portal accepts cards, internet banking, and UPI.
- Schedule Appointment: Choose a date and time at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
-
Visit PSK/POPSK:
- Arrive on your scheduled date with all original documents and one set of self-attested photocopies.
- Counter A: A Citizen Service Executive (CSE) will scan your documents, capture your live photograph, and take your biometric fingerprints.
- Counter B & C: Government officials will verify your original documents and make the final decision to grant your application.
Process for Non-Resident Indians (e.g., in USA)
The process for citizens abroad uses a dual-portal system.
-
Government Portal: First, you must fill out the online application form on the official government portal for overseas applications (e.g.,
embassy.passportindia.gov.in). -
Service Provider Portal (VFS): After saving the government form, you must go to the website of the authorized service provider, VFS Global. On the VFS site, you will:
- Find the document checklist for your location.
- Pay the passport fee, VFS service fee, and courier charges.
- Create courier labels for a mail-in application or book an in-person appointment if required.
-
Service Provider Portal (VFS): After saving the government form, you must go to the website of the authorized service provider, VFS Global. On the VFS site, you will:
- Find the document checklist for your location.
- Pay the passport fee, VFS service fee, and courier charges.
- Create courier labels for a mail-in application or book an in-person appointment if required. Submit Application: Mail (or submit in person) your printed government application form, VFS receipts, and all supporting documents to the designated VFS Indian Consular Application Centre.
Police Verification Explained
Police Verification (PV) is a mandatory security check to confirm your identity and address. An officer from your local police station conducts this verification. The law provides for three different modes.
| Verification Mode | How it Works | Who it Applies To |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Passport Issuance | The passport is printed and sent *only after* the police submit a “clear” report. | This is the default mode for most first-time applicants. |
| Post-Passport Issuance | The passport is printed and sent to you *before* the police verification is completed. The verification happens afterward. | All Tatkaal applications, most renewal cases (with no address change), and some Aadhaar-based applications. |
| No Police Verification | No new verification is needed. This applies if your details are unchanged and a clear report exists in the system. | Common for passport renewals where the address has not changed from the previous passport. |
A Note on Tatkaal Verification
The Tatkaal scheme does not skip police verification; it postpones it. You receive the passport quickly on a “Post-PV” basis. If the later police report is “adverse” (e.g., you are not found at the address), the Passport Office has the legal power to impound or revoke your passport.
Interactive Document Checklist
Use these filters to generate a basic document checklist for your application. Always check the official website for the most current and complete list.
Documents for Fresh Passport (Adult)
- Proof of Date of Birth (PODB) (Any ONE):
- Birth Certificate
- PAN Card
- Aadhaar Card / e-Aadhaar
- Driving License
- Voter ID Card (EPIC)
- School Leaving / Matriculation Certificate
- Proof of Present Address (POA) (Any ONE):
- Aadhaar Card / e-Aadhaar
- Water Bill / Electricity Bill / Postpaid Mobile Bill (recent)
- Registered Rent Agreement
- Bank Passbook (with photo)
- Voter ID Card (EPIC)
Documents for Fresh Passport (Minor)
- Proof of Date of Birth (PODB): Birth Certificate issued by the Municipal Corporation.
- Proof of Present Address (POA): A parent’s address proof (e.g., Aadhaar Card, Electricity Bill) is acceptable.
- Parent’s Passports: Original and self-attested copies of both parents’ passports (if held).
- Annexure ‘D’: A declaration on plain paper, signed by both parents or the legal guardian.
Documents for Re-issue (Adult, Expired)
- Old Passport: Your original current or expired passport.
- Photocopies: Self-attested copies of the first two and last two pages of your old passport.
- Proof of Address (if changed): A new Proof of Present Address (e.g., Aadhaar, Utility Bill) is required *only if* your address is different from the one in your old passport.
Documents for Re-issue (Adult, Lost/Stolen)
Note: You are NOT eligible for the Tatkaal scheme.
- Police Report (FIR): An original First Information Report (FIR) from the police, stating the lost passport number.
- Annexure ‘F’: A specimen affidavit for a lost passport.
- Proof of Date of Birth (PODB) (Any ONE): (e.g., Aadhaar, PAN Card, Birth Certificate).
- Proof of Present Address (POA) (Any ONE): (e.g., Aadhaar, Utility Bill, Rent Agreement).
Documents for Re-issue (Adult, Damaged)
Note: If damaged beyond recognition, you are NOT eligible for Tatkaal.
- Damaged Passport: Your original damaged passport.
- Self-Declaration: A letter on plain paper explaining the cause and circumstances of the damage.
- Photocopies: Self-attested copies of the first two and last two pages (if legible).
- Proof of Address (if changed): Required only if your present address is different.
Documents for Re-issue (Adult, Change of Details)
- Old Passport: Your original passport.
- To Add Spouse Name (Any ONE):
- Registered Marriage Certificate.
- Annexure ‘J’ (A notarized Joint Photo Declaration).
- To Remove Spouse Name (Divorce): Certified copy of the Divorce Decree.
- To Remove Spouse Name (Death): Original Death Certificate of the spouse.
Documents for Re-issue (Minor)
- Old Passport: The minor’s original passport.
- Parent’s Passports: Original and self-attested copies of both parents’ passports.
- Annexure ‘D’: A new declaration signed by both parents.
- Proof of Address (if changed): A parent’s address proof.
Documents for Tatkaal (Adult)
- The “Any Three” Rule: You must submit any three documents from the official Tatkaal list.
- Commonly used documents:
- Aadhaar Card / e-Aadhaar
- PAN Card
- Voter ID Card (EPIC)
- Birth Certificate
- Bank / Post Office Passbook (with photo)
- Driving License
- Plus: Standard documents for your application type (e.g., Old Passport for re-issue).
Documents for Tatkaal (Minor)
- The “Any Three” Rule: Any three documents from the list (can be in parent’s or child’s name as applicable).
- Aadhaar Card (of minor or parent)
- Birth Certificate
- Parent’s Passport
- Student Photo ID Card (from a recognized institution)
- Plus: Standard documents (Annexure ‘D’, Parent’s Passports).
Tatkaal Ineligibility Warning
You are NOT eligible for Tatkaal service if your application involves:
- Lost or Stolen Passport
- Passport Damaged Beyond Recognition
- Major Change in Name
- Change/Correction of Date of Birth or Place of Birth
- Change in Signature
- Pending Criminal Court Cases
- Minor’s application with Annexure ‘C’ (single/separated parent)
Fee Structure (India)
Fees are subject to change. The most accurate method to find your fee is the “Fee Calculator” on the official www.passportindia.gov.in website. The Tatkaal fee is a fixed surcharge of ₹2,000 over the normal fee.
Official Fee Table
| Service Required | Booklet Pages | Normal Fee | Tatkaal Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh or Re-issue (Adult 18+) | 36 Pages (10-Year) | ₹1,500 | ₹3,500 |
| Fresh or Re-issue (Adult 18+) | 60 Pages (10-Year) | ₹2,000 | ₹4,000 |
| Fresh or Re-issue (Minor <18) | 36 Pages (5-Year) | ₹1,000 | ₹3,000 |
| Replacement (Lost/Damaged) | 36 Pages | ₹3,000 | ₹5,000 |
| Replacement (Lost/Damaged) | 60 Pages | ₹3,500 | ₹5,500 |
Fee Comparison Chart
Understanding Legal Annexures (Templates)
The Annexures in your application are legally binding declarations. Providing false information is an offense under The Passports Act, 1967.
Template: Annexure ‘E’ (Self-Declaration)
This is a mandatory self-declaration on plain paper for most applications. By signing it, you “solemnly affirm and state” that:
- You are a citizen of India and have not lost or surrendered your citizenship.
- You have not been convicted of an offense (with 2+ years imprisonment) in the last 5 years.
- No criminal proceedings are currently pending against you in any Indian court.
- No warrant, summons, or court order prohibits your departure from India.
Template: Annexure ‘D’ (Minor Consent)
This is the standard declaration for a minor’s passport, submitted on plain paper. It must be signed by both parents or the legal guardian.
The content affirms the minor’s Indian citizenship. Both parents also “undertake the entire responsibility for his/her expenses.” If a legal guardian signs, a court order must be attached.
Template: Annexure ‘C’ (Single Parent)
This is a notarized affidavit for specific cases where one parent applies without the other’s consent (e.g., divorce, separation, abandonment).
The parent signing this affidavit takes sole legal responsibility. They affirm they will be “solely responsible for defending the case” if any legal issue arises from the passport’s issuance.
Note: Applications with Annexure ‘C’ are not eligible for Tatkaal service.
Special Application Cases
Certain applications involve specific rules or require additional documentation beyond the standard checklists.
Name Change (Major)
A simple change, like adding a spouse’s name, is straightforward. A “major” name change (e.g., changing your full name) requires more proof.
- Gazette Notification: You must publish the name change in the Gazette of India. This is the primary legal proof required.
- Newspaper Advertisements: You must provide original copies of advertisements announcing the name change in two newspapers (one local, one national).
- Deed Poll / Sworn Affidavit: A notarized affidavit (like Annexure ‘E’) specific to the name change is also required.
Government / PSU Employees
Employees of Central or State Government, Public Sector Undertakings (PSUs), or Statutory Bodies have two options:
- No Objection Certificate (NOC): Submit an original NOC from your department (as per Annexure ‘A’). With an NOC, the passport is granted with No Police Verification.
- Prior Intimation (PI) Letter: Submit a PI Letter (as per Annexure ‘G’). This is just an official letter informing your department of your application. The passport is then granted on a Post-PV basis (Tatkaal) or Pre-PV basis (Normal).
Passport for Adopted Children
To apply for a passport for an adopted child, you must provide the following in addition to standard minor documents:
- A valid, registered adoption deed.
- If the adoption is not registered, a court order granting legal guardianship of the child.
- A declaration on plain paper with a photo of the child, confirmed by the adoptive parents.
Common Rejection Scenarios & The Appeal Process
Sometimes, an application is not “granted” immediately and is put on hold or, in rare cases, rejected. Understanding why can help you resolve the issue.
Common Reasons for “On-Hold” Status
| Scenario | Reason Given by PSK | How to Resolve |
|---|---|---|
| Document Mismatch | “Name/DOB/Address differs across documents.” | You must provide a clarifying document or get the incorrect document corrected (e.g., update Aadhaar). A notarized affidavit is sometimes accepted for minor spelling errors. |
| Adverse Police Report | “Applicant not found at address” or “Criminal case found.” | If not at address, re-apply with the correct address. If a criminal case, you must provide a court order (NOC) permitting travel. |
| File Held for Scrutiny | “Application under review at RPO.” | This often happens with complex cases (e.g., lost passport, major name change). You must wait for the RPO to complete its internal checks. |
| Insufficient Documents | “Required Annexure or Proof is missing.” | The PSK will give you a list of the missing items. You must re-schedule an appointment and submit them. |
The Appeal and Escalation Process
If your application is unfairly rejected or delayed for a very long time, you have a formal escalation path. You cannot “appeal” in a court, but you can appeal to senior officers.
- Step 1: Contact the RPO: First, use the official “Grievances” link on the Passport Seva website. If that fails, book an “Enquiry” appointment to meet the Public Grievance Officer at your Regional Passport Office (RPO).
- Step 2: Escalate to the RPO Head: If the Grievance Officer cannot help, you can escalate the matter to the head of the RPO, the Regional Passport Officer, by requesting a meeting.
- Step 3: Appeal to CPV Division: The final authority is the Chief Passport Officer (CPO) at the Consular, Passport & Visa (CPV) Division of the Ministry of External Affairs in New Delhi. You can submit a formal grievance to this office if the RPO is non-responsive.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes. Your traditional passport booklet is fully and legally valid for international travel until its printed expiry date. You do not need to replace it early.
No. The e-Passport is the new default. The standard application fees have not changed for this upgrade. You pay the same fee as before (e.g., ₹1,500 for a 36-page adult passport).
The only official website is www.passportindia.gov.in. Do not use any other site for your application.
No. Applications for lost or stolen passports are strictly ineligible for the Tatkaal scheme. You must apply under the “Normal” scheme and provide a police FIR.
To prove your identity for the expedited Tatkaal service, you must submit any three documents from the official Tatkaal list. Common examples include (1) Aadhaar Card, (2) PAN Card, and (3) Voter ID Card (EPIC) or Bank Passbook.
A Note on Jurisdictional Rules
You must apply for your passport within the jurisdiction of your present residential address. You cannot choose any PSK in the country. Your address determines which Regional Passport Office (RPO) and which PSK you must attend.
For example, RPO Kolkata covers all districts in West Bengal and Tripura. However, it is further divided. An applicant from Nadia district must book their appointment at PSK Behrampore. An applicant from Kolkata district must book at PSK Kolkata. Applying at the wrong location will result in your application being rejected.
