How to Apply Passport in India in 2026

 

Applying for a passport in India has evolved with its digital-first approach and rollout of chip-enabled e-passports. This guide will help you understand the process in an organized and detailed way so that you can successfully apply for a passport online without any confusion.

🔔 2026 Passport Updates: At a Glance

• Birth Proof: Birth Certificate as proof of date of birth is compulsory for children born on or after October 1st, 2023.

• The 10% Discount: Senior Citizens (above 60) and Minors (below 8 years) get a 10% discount on the "Normal" fee for Fresh applications. (This discount does not apply to re-issue of passport).

• e-Passport Upgrade: All new passports are now being issued as e-passports with embedded chip at no extra charge.

Feature	Details
Standard Issuance	e-Passport (Embedded RFID Chip)
Normal Fee	₹1,500 (36 pages)
Tatkal Fee	₹3,500 (Total inclusive of urgency charges)
Processing Time	15–30 Days (Normal) | 1–3 Days (Tatkal)

📄Passport Application Process 2026

Step 1: Registration & Login

• Create an account on the official Passport Seva Portal.

• Once registered, login using User Id, Password and Captcha.

• Click on “Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport.” and fill-out the application form.

💡Tip: For a smoother mobile experience, you can also use the mPassport Seva App.

Step 2: Fill Application Form

• Fill out the application form with accurate details.

• Submit your application after reviewing.

💡Tip: Make sure to save your details at each step with ‘Save my Details’ button.

Step 3: Payment and Appointment

• Click on ‘View Saved/Submitted Applications’.

• Select your application and click on ‘Pay and Schedule Appointment’.

• Choose your preferred Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). 

• Pay the fee online via UPI, Credit/Debit cards, or Net Banking.

• Your appointment is booked on successful payment. 

• Click on ‘Print Application’ to download the appointment receipt. This receipt would be required for Application Reference Number (ARN).

Applicant Category	Validity Period	Booklet Size	Normal Fee	Tatkal Fee (Total)
Adult (18–60 years)	10 Years	36 Pages	₹1,500	₹3,500
Adult (18–60 years)	10 Years	60 Pages	₹2,000	₹4,000
Teenager (15–18 years)	10 Years	36 Pages	₹1,500	₹3,500
Teenager (15–18 years)	5 Years (or until age 18)	36 Pages	₹1,000	₹3,000

Step 4: The PSK Visit & Biometrics

• Visit the PSK at your allotted time. 

• Your application will move through 3 different counters-

  • Counter A: Document verification.

  • Counter B: Biometrics (fingerprints and photograph).

  • Counter C: Final verification and granting officer approval.

• Collect the Acknowledgement Receipt.

💡Tip: Even with DigiLocker, you must carry your original documents for a one-time physical cross-check.

Step 5: Police Verification

• Background check would take place at your residential address by a police official.

• Keep documents ready for verification.

• Updates regarding the police verification will be sent to your mobile number.

💡Tip: The police verification process is now handled via the mPassport Police App, allowing the officer to digitally submit their report and speed up the verification process.

👶Applying for a Newborn Baby’s Passport

You can apply for a newborn baby’s passport through a process similar to the one mentioned above. However, keep the following points in mind to ensure a seamless experience:

No Minimum Age Requirement

You can apply for a passport as soon as the baby’s birth certificate is issued.

Thumb Impression

Since infants cannot sign, a thumb impression in dark ink is required (left thumb for boys and right thumb for girls).

Police Verification

Police verification is usually not required if both parents have valid passports that mention their spouse’s name.

Validity & Fees

A newborn’s passport is typically valid for 5 years or until the child turns 18, whichever comes first.

Application fee: ₹1,000 (minor category).

Key Documents Required

• Baby’s Birth Certificate

• Self-attested copies of both parents’ passports

• Annexure D (parental consent declaration)

Conclusion:

The passport application process in 2026 is faster and more secure than ever, taking you one step closer to your dream international destination. By following this guide, you can easily complete your new passport application process without any pitfalls.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. Will I get an e-passport if I apply for a new passport now?

Answer: Yes. All new passports and renewals issued in India are now chip-enabled e-passports. You do not need to check a special box or pay an extra fee; you will receive the upgraded e-passport automatically.

2. Is a birth certificate mandatory for a passport application?

Answer: Yes, a birth certificate is mandatory if you were born on or after October 1, 2023. If you were born before that date, you can still use your Aadhaar card, PAN card, or 10th marksheet as proof of age.

3. Do I need to take original documents to the passport office if I use DigiLocker?

Answer: Yes. Even if you successfully fetch your documents digitally via DigiLocker during the online application, you must still carry the original physical copies to your Passport Seva Kendra appointment for a mandatory one-time visual check.

4. Can I travel abroad immediately after getting my passport?

Answer: Yes, having a passport allows you to apply for visas, but many countries also require you to have valid Travel Insurance before they approve your entry.

Disclaimer: 

This blog is intended for educational purposes and does not constitute official government advice. Passport rules, including e-passport mandates and fee structures, are governed exclusively by the Government of India and are subject to change. For most updated information, please visit the official Passport Seva Portal.