How to Apply for Passport Online: Step-by-Step Guide

Posted on: Apr 6, 2023 | 3 mins | Written by: HDFC ERGO Team

How to Apply for Passport Online: Step-by-Step Guide

In today's interconnected world, travelling abroad has become an increasingly common experience for people from all walks of life. Whether for work, study or leisure, international travel is an exciting opportunity to explore new cultures, expand your horizons and create unforgettable memories. However, before you can embark on your journey, you'll need one essential document: a passport.

While applying for a passport might seem like a daunting task, thanks to the advancement of technology, it's now easier than ever. With just a few clicks, you can complete the entire application process online. Once you have your passport ready, we recommend investing in suitable travel insurance online, as it comes in very handy when you are on an international trip.

So, if you are planning a foreign trip, and want to know how to make a passport online, here’s all you need to know. And don't forget to buy travel insurance online.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Passport Online

To know how to apply for a passport online, follow these simple steps:

• Step 1:

Create an account on the Passport Seva Portal by visiting the website and selecting "New User Registration" or "Existing User Login" depending on your registration status. Complete the registration process if you're a new user and log in using your login ID and password. Complete the captcha verification.

• Step 2:

Select the type of passport application you require - fresh, reissue, official, or diplomatic passport.

• Step 3:

Fill out your passport application online by clicking on the chosen passport type and accurately entering all the required details. Once completed, verify the details and click "Submit".

• Step 4:

Pay the fees and schedule an appointment by visiting "View Saved or Submitted Applications" on the home page, selecting "Pay & Schedule Appointment", choosing the preferred Passport Seva Kendra, and scheduling an appointment. Pay the fees using the online payment mode of your choice and take a printout of the application receipt or refer to the SMS containing your Application Reference Number (ARN).

• Step 5:

Attend your appointment at the PSK with all the original documents required for verification.

Tip: It is always wise to get international travel insurance before you plan your travel, as it protects you against the financial losses you might face while abroad.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Online Passport Application

Using online services to apply for a passport has its advantages and disadvantages. To ensure a smooth and successful application, avoid these common mistakes:

1. Incomplete Information

Always be careful to complete all the mandatory fields appropriately and to the best of your abilities. When you fail to provide some information or perhaps fill in the wrong form, your application will be slowed.

2. Incorrect Photo Specifications

Obtain a passport sized photograph that follows the standards set by the immigration department. Do not use low-quality pictures, cut, blurred, or of a different orientation than the rest of the images.

3. Payment Issues

Confirm if the payment option used for paying is valid, and that there is enough balance in the account. As for the fees, they differ based on the type of application that is being developed and the particular service that has been chosen.

4. Signature Discrepancies

It is important that your digital signature matches the one on your original passport where necessary.

5. Document Upload Errors

It is advisable to make sure that documents like the ID or the passport that prove the identity and citizenship of the client are scanned properly and uploaded in the correct manner.

6. Incorrect Mailing Address

Provide a legitimate mailing address where your passport will be mailed.

7. Insufficient Validity

Take into account the validity period of your passport and get your passport with sufficient validity for the intended travel.

8. Delay in Submission

Your application should be submitted as early as possible though you should book a travel date after the application is processed. Delivery may take some time longer during holidays or during the festive season and the like.

9. Lack of Tracking

Keep updating the status of your application so that you do not be in a state of shock. You should know when exactly they are going to deliver it.

Ignoring travel insurance when on a trip, could lead to risks that might occur. Thus, get travel insurance online when you plan a trip so that you are able to obtain it with ease and without having to endure lots of frustration.

Tracking Your Passport Application Status

Once you have completed the passport application process, you can track its status by following these steps on the official Passport Seva portal:

1. Go to the homepage of the Passport Seva platform.

2. Click on the "Track Application Status" option.

3. On the next screen, enter details such as your "Application Type", "Date of Birth", and "File Number".

4. Click the "Track Status" button to check the status of your passport application.

Benefits of Applying for a Passport Online

Applying for a passport online in India offers several advantages over traditional methods:

1. Convenience

◦ Saves time and effort by completing the application from the comfort of your home or office.

◦ No need to visit a passport office or stand in long queues.

2. Efficiency

◦ The online system is user-friendly and guides you through each step of the process.

◦ Real-time tracking allows you to monitor the progress of your application.

3. Accuracy

◦ The online form is designed to reduce errors by validating information as you enter it.

◦ Digital signatures eliminate the need for physical documents.

4. Security

◦ The online portal is protected by advanced encryption technologies.

◦ Your personal information is kept confidential and secure.

5. Additional Benefits

◦ Pay fees securely online using multiple payment options.

◦ Upload required documents digitally without the need for notarization.

◦ Receive notifications and updates via email or SMS.

By applying for a passport online, you can enjoy a convenient, efficient, and secure process that saves you time and hassle. When planning your next trip, consider purchasing travel insurance online for added peace of mind.

FAQ's

1. How to get my passport online?

To apply for a passport, you can register via the Passport Seva Online portal. After registering, you can log in using your registered login ID and proceed with the necessary steps, such as filling out the application form, scheduling an appointment, and paying the required fees.

2. How to edit a submitted passport application?

If you need to edit the application form once it has been submitted, you can do so by consulting with the CSE, Citizen Service Executive, who is available at the Passport Seva Kendra or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra.

3. How do you cancel an application that has been submitted?

To cancel the application online, you can log in to the Passport Seva Kendra portal before your scheduled appointment date. Once logged in, select 'Submitted’ or ‘View Saved Applications', followed by 'Schedule Appointment', and then choose the 'Cancel' option.

4. What payment options are available at the Passport Seva Portal?

When submitting an application and booking an appointment at Passport Seva, there are several payment methods available, including:

◦ Credit or Debit card (MasterCard or Visa)

◦ SBI Internet Banking

◦ SBI Bank Challan

◦ Internet Banking using other banks

5. How do you apply for a passport offline?

To apply for a passport offline, you can download the application form from the official website and complete it. Then, visit the nearest Passport Seva Kendra or Passport Seva office with the completed form and required documents. Finally, submit the documents and pay the necessary fee to complete the application process.

Conclusion

With the help of the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) portal, your question on how do i apply for a passport online gets resolved. Any applicant can fill in the application, scan and upload all necessary papers, as well as choose the date and time for an appointment from home. One must necessarily have all the documents at hand and follow the rules of conduct in this area. Thanks to this online facility, it has now been easier to secure a passport, thus allowing me to make international trips as planned.

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

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