Preparing for Your Passport Appointment: Essential Documents to Bring

In this complete guide, you will learn what documents to carry to the passport office to apply for or renew the document.

Documents to Bring to the Passport Seva Kendra for Interview

Whether you are applying for a new passport or renewing an existing one, you need to have certain documents ready while going for your interview. Here is the list of documents required for a passport:

Proof of Identity

You must provide at least one document to prove your identity, which can be:

• Aadhaar Card
• Voter ID
• Driving Licence
• Central or State Government-issued photo identity card

Proof of Address

Address proof should reflect your current and permanent residential address. Make sure that you provide acceptable documents as proof of both your addresses. Some of the documents which act as address proof are:

• Aadhaar Card
• Utility Bills (Electricity, water or gas bills) which are not older than 3 months
• Bank account statement or passbook
• Rental agreement
• Employer’s certificate on company letterhead

Proof of Date of Birth

A document confirming your date of birth (DOB) is mandatory. Here are the documents which are accepted during passport application and renewal:

• Birth certificate
• School leaving certificate with DOB mentioned
• PAN card
• Aadhaar card

Passport-size Photographs

Passport photographs are a key part of the application process. These photographs should meet specific requirements:

• The photo should be 2x2 inches (51x51 mm) in size.
• 3 photos has to be submitted
• The background should be white or light-coloured.
• You should have a neutral expression, with your mouth closed and no visible facial hair or excessive makeup.
• The photo should be in sharp focus, without shadows, and you should be facing forward.

Old Passport for Renewal

If you are applying for a passport renewal or reissue, you must bring your old passport along. The authorities will check it and may retain it during the process. In case of a lost passport: If your passport was lost or stolen, you will need to provide an FIR (First Information Report) or a copy of the police report to validate the loss.

Payment Receipt

After completing the online application, you will be required to pay the passport fee. This can be done through the portal, and once paid, you will receive a payment receipt. Print the payment receipt and carry it with you to the appointment. It will be required as proof of payment.

Additional Documents for Specific Cases

Here are some additional documents to carry for your passport appointment process:

Minors (Below 18 years)

For minors applying for a passport, the following documents to be carried are:

• Birth certificate
• Aadhaar Card
• Annexure D: A declaration form by both the parents or guardian
• Parents’ passport

Married Individuals

If you are married, you might need additional documentation, which are:

• Spouse passport copy
• Marriage certificate

You need to provide both these documents if you want to change your name and address or include your spouse's name on them.

Divorced or Separated Individuals

In case you are divorced, you need to provide the following documents:

• Divorce decree
• Annexure K: Self-declaration stating your current marital status.

Application for Name Change

For applicants seeking a name change or correction, you need to have the following documents:

• Gazette notification for name change
• Two newspaper advertisements in prominent newspapers
• Marriage certificate (if the name change is due to marriage)

Special Documents for Tatkal Passport Applications

In case you need your passport urgently, you can apply for the Tatkal Scheme. In that case, you need to carry certain documents along with the regular ones to confirm your urgency. These documents include:

• Annexure F: Verification by A Gazetted Officer or employer on official letterhead.
• Proof of Urgency: You need to provide proof of urgency like an airline ticket, medical documents, or other justifications.

Tips for a Smooth Passport Application and Renewal Process

While going to the passport for getting a new passport or renewing your old one, make sure to follow the given tips below:

• Organise your Documents

You need to carry all your original documents ready along with their photocopies to avoid any delays in the process. Moreover, you can carry them in separate labelled folders to avoid any confusion at the office.

• Double-Check Details

Ensure all the details in the application form are correct and complete. Otherwise, there is a risk of your application getting rejected because of minor mistakes.

• Arrive Early for the Interview

Generally, when you apply online for a new passport or renew an old one, you are given a specific date and time for the interview at the office. It is always preferable to arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment. Also, make sure to bring a printout of your appointment receipt to avoid getting denied entry.

• Stay Updated on Visa Rules

The Indian government keeps changing the passport application rules. So, it is recommended that you check the recent rules from the Passport Seva portal to avoid confusion.

• Avoid Incomplete and Incorrect Documentation

Often, many applications are incomplete or have incorrect information such as wrong DOB, spelling mistakes, wrong address, etc. So, you are advised to fill out the application carefully and completely before proceeding to the interview.

• Using Agents without Verification

While agents can be helpful, sometimes they charge an unrealistically high brokerage. You can easily avoid such agents by completing the entire process independently through the Passport Seva Portal.

Final Words

By following this guide, you’ll ensure that your application process is as seamless as possible, bringing you one step closer to obtaining your Indian passport.

Remember, the passport application process may take some time, so be patient and stay informed about any updates or changes through the official Passport Seva website.