A passport is one of the most important documents a person holds, especially if they are looking to travel outside the country. The Government of India has been making efforts to simplify the renewal process of the passport. Here is all you need to know about passport renewal in India.
Who Needs a Passport Renewal?
Passport renewal is required for anyone who has an expired/very close to expiry passport, lost or damaged passport, or an expired passport that has been issued more than ten years ago.
What Documents are Required for Passport Renewal?
The following documents are required for passport renewal:
1. Old passport (original)
2. Aadhaar card or any other address proof (original and photocopy)
3. Self-attested photocopy of the first two and last two pages of the old passport
4. Two passport size photographs (with a white background)
5. ECR/Non-ECR declaration (for those who have not passed their 10th Grade)
6. Marriage certificate (if the name has been changed)
7. Annexure E (for those who have changed their name for the second time)
8. Annexure B (for applicants who are less than 18 years of age)
Online Passport Renewal Procedure in India
The online passport renewal procedure in India has made things easier for applicants. The procedure is as follows:
1. Visit the official website of Passport Seva.
2. Register on the portal and login.
3. Click on ‘Apply for Fresh Passport/Reissue of Passport’.
4. Fill out the details and click on ‘Submit’.
5. Select the nearest Passport Seva Kendra or Regional Passport Office (RPO).
6. Choose the available time slot and click on ‘Next’.
7. Pay the passport renewal fee and click on ‘Next’.
8. Submit the required documents, including a photograph, and click on ‘Submit’.
9. Take an appointment to visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)/Regional Passport Office (RPO).
10. Visit the PSK/RPO at the scheduled date and time.
11. Collect your renewed passport.
Passport Renewal Fees
The fees for passport renewal vary depending on the type of passport and the number of pages in it. The fees for renewal of 36-page passport are INR 1500 while for 60-page passport, INR 2000.
Conclusion
Passport renewal has been made easy and efficient. The online mode has provided applicants with a lot of convenience. The government is looking at further simplification of the passport renewal process. The documents required for passport renewal are minimal, and the fees are reasonable. So, if you have an expired passport, act quickly and renew it through the online mode.