Renewing an Indian passport can seem like a daunting task, but it is a fairly straightforward process that can be completed in a few easy steps. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to renew your Indian passport:
Step 1: Gather all the required documents
Before you begin the passport renewal process, make sure you have all the required documents ready. The following documents are needed for passport renewal:
Your old passport (original and a photocopy of the first two and last two pages, including the ECR/Non-ECR page and any other endorsement pages)
Two recent passport-sized photographs (size 2 inch x 2 inches) with a white background
Proof of address (a copy of any one of the following: Aadhaar card, Voter ID card, utility bill, or bank statement)
Proof of date of birth (a copy of any one of the following: birth certificate, school leaving certificate, or PAN card)
Proof of any change in name (if applicable)
Make sure that all your documents are in order and that you have copies of everything.
Step 2: Visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO)
Once you have all the required documents, the next step is to visit the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO). You can find the nearest PSK or RPO on the official website of the Ministry of External Affairs.
Step 3: Fill out the application form
At the PSK or RPO, you will need to fill out the passport renewal application form. You can either fill out the form online or fill it out manually at the PSK or RPO.
Step 4: Pay the passport renewal fees
After filling out the application form, you will need to pay the passport renewal fees. The fees can be paid online or at the PSK or RPO.
Step 5: Submit the application and documents
Once you have paid the fees, you will need to submit your application form and all the required documents at the PSK or RPO. The officials will verify your documents and take your biometric information (photograph, fingerprints, and signature).
Step 6: Track your application
After submitting your application, you can track its status online using the application number provided to you. Once your application is processed, you will receive an SMS and email notification informing you about the status of your application.
Step 7: Collect your new passport
Once your application is approved, you can collect your new passport from the PSK or RPO. You must carry your old passport, the receipt issued to you at the time of application submission, and a government-issued photo ID for verification.
Renewing your Indian passport can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks, depending on the processing time and the PSK or RPO you visit. So, make sure you plan accordingly and apply for the renewal well in advance of your travel date.
