Apply Passport Online - Offline

Different Ways of Applying Passport and Types of Passport

Applications for passports and related services can be done online or offline. However, the passport application procedure is now almost entirely done online and is the most preferable mode. There are certain circumstances under which the process can be carried out offline. There are two ways to apply passport in India.

Online Passport Application Service

The online passport application process requires an applicant to log into the Passport Seva Project (PSP) portal at www.passportindia.gov.in and follow the steps therein.

Offline Passport Application Procedure

Application forms can be printed / bought and submitted directly at Passport Collection Centers like District Passport Cells (DPCs) along with the required supporting documents. In some cases, walk-ins at some PSKs are allowed without appointment. However, the application form will have to first be submitted online and the receipt carried to the PSK.Get the information about offline passport application process>

Types of Passport Application

• Fresh Passport
• Reissue of Passport
• Tatkaal Scheme
• Police Clearance Certificate
• Diplomatic Passport
• Identity Certificate

Fresh Passport:

This is for a person who doesn't have a passport and wants to apply for a new one i.e. first-time application

Re-issue of Passport:

This is for a person who already has/had a passport but needs to perform the following actions

• Renewal - The passport is approaching the end of its validity or has expired
• Changes - The details in the passport need to be modified or corrected or updated
• Replacement - The passport has been damaged or lost and a duplicate is required
• Page Addition - The available pages has been used up on a valid passport.

Tatkaal Passport:

This is for people who need to apply for passports on an urgent basis.

Police Clearance Certificate:

This is for a person who has a passport but is applying for Employment/Long-Term Visa/Residential Status/Immigration.

Diplomatic/Official Passport:

This is for a person who needs to travel on government work i.e. for diplomats.

Identity Certificate:

This is for a person who is not a citizen of India but is residing in India being stateless i.e. a refugee. It is also called an alien passport and is mostly issued to Tibetan refugees.