Tatkal vs Normal Passport Renewal - Know the Differences
Tatkal vs Normal Passport Renewal - Know the Differences
A passport is an important document proving your identity and citizenship when travelling internationally. While a normal passport renewal can take several weeks, the Tatkal scheme offers expedited passport renewal for those with urgent travel plans. This blog post will outline the key differences between normal and passport renew tatkal in India.
Overview of Normal and Tatkal Passport Renewal
Normal passport renewal
• The standard renewal process takes 30–45 days.
• Regular application fees apply.
• Available to all passport holders needing renewal
• Requires appointment booking and visit to Passport Seva Kendra
Tatkal Passport Renewal
• Expedited renewal process that takes 1-3 days
• Higher fees than normal renewal
• For applicants with urgent travel plans
• Requires proof of travel urgency.
Key Differences Between Normal and Tatkal Passport Renewal
Parameter | Normal Passport Renewal | Tatkal Passport Renewal |
Processing Time | 30-45 days | 1-3 working days |
Fees | Regular fees | Higher fees |
Eligibility | Available for all | Only for urgent travel |
Documents | Standard documents | Additional proof of urgency |
Appointment | Requires appointment | Requires appointment |
Police Verification | Pre-renewal | Post-renewal |
Use Case | Regular, non-urgent travel | Urgent travel plans |
▪ Processing Time
The standard processing time for a normal passport renewal is 30–45 days. Meanwhile, passport renew tatkal is expedited and takes just 1–3 working days.
▪ Fees
While normal renewal requires regular fees, passport renew tatkal has higher fees due to the expedited service. Tatkal has an additional fee of Rs. 1000.
▪ Eligibility
Any passport holder can opt for normal renewal. However, tatkal renewal is only for applicants with urgent travel plans who can show proof of travel urgency.
▪ Documents
Both normal and tatkal renewals require standard documents like identity proof and address proof. However, passport renew tatkal needs additional documents confirming urgent travel. And always keep travel insurance before any travel.
▪ Appointment
You must book an appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra for normal and tatkal passport renewals. Walk-ins are typically not allowed.
▪ Police Verification
For normal renewal, police verification happens pre-renewal. But for Tatkal, it may occur post-renewal to speed up the process.
▪ Use Case
Normal passport renewal works for routine, non-urgent travel plans. Tatkal renewal is best for urgent travel where you need your passport expedited.
Who is eligible for Tatkal passport renewal?
While all passport holders can renew through the standard process, passport applicants renew tatkal must meet specific criteria:
• Individuals born to Indian parents abroad or born in other countries
• People deported, repatriated or granted citizenship by registration
• Residents of Jammu-Kashmir, Nagaland or those of Naga origin residing outside Nagaland
• Those looking to renew short-validity passports or with major name changes
• Minors from Nagaland or adopted children
• Those seeking re-issue of lost/stolen passports or with changes in appearance, sex or credentials
Check the official guidelines for updated passport renew tatkal eligibility criteria. Also, you should have proper international travel insurance before any travel.
What is the procedure for applying for Tatkal passport renewal online?
Follow these steps to apply for passport renew tatkal online:
• Login to your Passport Seva account
• Select the re-issue and tatkal scheme.
• Fill out the passport application form online.
• Upload documents like proof of identity or travel urgency.
• Pay the fees and print the application receipt.
• Schedule an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra.
• Visit the PSK with your documents on the given date.
What Are the Documents Required for Tatkal Passport Renewal?
You'll need the below documents when applying for Tatkal passport renewal:
• Existing passport
• Document showing confirmed travel bookings
• Address proof like Aadhaar, rent agreement, and utility bills
• Identity proof like Aadhaar, PAN card, or driver's license
• Standard passport-size photographs
• Fee payment receipt
• Other documents supporting urgency
What is the fee for Tatkal passport renewal?
The passport renew tatkal fees are higher than normal renewal. Here are the prevailing Tatkal renewal fees:
Applicant’s age | Number of pages | Fee (in Rs) |
Below 15 years | 36 | 3000 |
15 to 18 years (10 years of validity) | 36 | 3500 |
15 to 18 years (10 years of validity) | 60 | 4000 |
18 years and older | 36 | 3500 |
18 years and older | 60 | 4000 |
How Can You Pay the Tatkal Passport Fees?
For online payment, you can opt for the three following options:
• Internet Banking
• Credit Card
• Debit Card
You can also pay the applicable passport renew tatkal fees in cash at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra.
Key Tips for Tatkal Passport Renewal
Here are some useful tips when applying for Tatkal passport renewal:
• Book your PSK appointment immediately after submitting your Tatkal application online.
• Ensure you have your travel tickets or urgent documentation ready.
• Reach the PSK at least 30 minutes before your appointment.
• Carry originals and photocopies of all required documents.
• Pay close attention to the documents required for your specific case.
• Check the official website for the latest passport fees and Tatkal rules.
Conclusion
While normal passport renewal takes 30-45 days, the Tatkal scheme offers expedited renewal for emergency travel needs in just 1-3 days. Key differences are the higher fees, need for confirmed urgency proof, post-police verification, and eligibility criteria associated with tatkal renewal. By understanding the nuances of both processes, you can determine whether to opt for normal or tatkal passport renewal.
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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