Passport Renewal vs. Reissue: The Difference

Posted on: Aug 9, 2024 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

Passport Renewal vs. Reissue: The Difference

Your passport is one of the most crucial documents that you need as a citizen of India. A valid passport is compulsory for anyone who wishes to travel abroad. When the passport loses its validity, you need to renew or reissue it. What is the difference? Let’s find out.

What is Passport Renewal?

An Indian passport is usually valid for a period of 5 or 10 years. You need to renew the document at the end of this period to continue with the benefits. This process is known as passport renewal and can be done by all existing Indian passport holders.

What is a Passport Reissue?

You may also need a new passport if your passport is lost, stolen or damaged. It may also so happen that all the passport pages have been used up, even though the validity of the passport remains. In such scenarios, you need to apply for a passport reissue, where a fresh passport will be issued in your name after the cancellation of the old one.

Differences Between Passport Renewal and Reissue

A passport renewal happens when the validity of the passport comes to an end. You should ideally renew your passport well in advance, to avoid any last-minute travel complications. A passport can be renewed 6 months before it expires.

A lost, stolen or damaged passport needs to be reissued as the existing document cannot be used any further due to non-availability. A passport reissue happens within the validity period and has no relation to the passport expiry date.

Passport Renew vs Reissue: Which Option to Choose?

You are never in a position to choose between a passport renewal and a reissue. This is because these are specific actions that need to be taken at specific times. While every passport holder has to get a renewal done when the validity period draws to an end, not everyone needs to get their passports reissued. Hence, understand the situation and then act accordingly.

FAQ

1. How to renew my passport?

You have to make an appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra. You have to fill out an online renewal form and reach the centre at the designated time with the documents required. After verifying your documents, the passport will be renewed.

2. How to reissue a passport?

You have to file an FIR and prepare an affidavit stating why your original passport needs to be reissued. You have to book a special appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra and reach there at the designated time with the required documents.

3. Do I have to pay a fee for passport renewal or reissue?

Yes, you have to pay a fee for both renewal and reissue of your passport.

Conclusion

To travel abroad you require some important documents such as your passport and a travel insurance policy. Keep these documents ready and have a smooth and memorable holiday.

Disclaimer The above information is for illustrative purposes only. For more details, please refer to policy wordings and prospectus before concluding the sales.

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