Passport is the most important document needed if you want to travel out of a country. Many countries need a Visa before departure from the source nation but there are around 40 countries that provide Visa after the arrival. However a passport is compulsory for visiting the countries which are offering Visa on arrival. Passport is an international ID and it is valid for ten years in India and a person has to renew the passport before its expiry in order to continue using it for foreign travel.
An individual can obtain passport from authorized Passport Seva Kendra that comes under the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India. There they get an application form for the renewal of passport which has to be filled & submitted online. But, a person has to visit the Passport Seva Kendra after submission of the renewal form & book an appointment along with all essential documents.
It must be noted that only in case of medical issues or emergencies and the pre-approved categories can visit Passport Seva Kendra without the appointment. After that the services will be given at the discretion of Passport Seva Kendra in-charge or Passport Officer. If the applicant does not visit the Passport Seva Office within ninety days from the online form submission, then he or she will have to re-submit the application form.
How to Renew Passport Online in India?
Step-by-step process to renew passport
Step 1 - Go to the Passport Seva Kendra online website - portal2.passportindia.gov.in
Step 2 - Enroll by clicking on ‘Register Now’ at the home page.
Step 3 - Generate your login ID & password.
Step 4 - Now activate the account by tapping the link sent on your registered email.
Step 5 - Then login to the Passport Seva Online website with the registered login ID & password.
Step 6 - Click "Apply for Fresh Passport or Re-issue of Passport" link.
Step 7 - Download passport renewal form.
Step 8 - Fill up the form carefully and upload the document.
Step 9 - Click "Pay & Schedule Appointment" link at "View Saved/Submitted Applications" screen to fix an appointment.
Step 10 - Choose the nearest Passport Seva Kendra from your place and book the slot.
Step 11 - Click on "Print Application Receipt" to print the application receipt that contains Application Reference Number (ARN) or Appointment Number.
Step 12 - Go to the Passport Seva Kendra /Regional Passport Office where your appointment has been booked. Don’t forget to take all original documents.
Things to keep in mind
It must be noted that the online payment has been made compulsory for booking appointments at all Passport Seva Kendras or Passport Offices. You need not carry a printout of application receipt as an SMS having your appointment details will also be accepted as proof of appointment during the visit.
But keep all the essential documents ready with you (original as well as photocopy) and also carry your recent passport size photograph with white background in case of minor candidates of age below 4 years.
