India’s online passport reissue system embodies a compassionate commitment to empowering millions of passport holders, particularly those from underserved communities, by modernizing citizen services with clear guidelines, accessible digital platforms, and faster processing, ensuring convenience and dignity in maintaining their global mobility.
This transparent and efficient process fosters inclusion and trust, enabling individuals to navigate reissuance with ease and confidence, whether for travel, work, or personal aspirations. By uniting citizens, authorities, and communities in this transformative effort, India creates an equitable, supportive framework that nurtures hope and opportunity, ensuring every individual can pursue their dreams in a connected, inclusive world.
Indian citizens requiring changes or replacements for their existing travel documents can now apply for a passport reissue online through the Ministry of External Affairs’ Passport Seva Portal. The process, introduced to improve efficiency, allows applicants to update expired, damaged, or lost passports from anywhere in the country.
Understanding Passport Reissue
A passport reissue involves the creation of a new passport booklet while retaining the original passport number, except in certain cases. According to the Passport Seva Programme, reissue is required in several circumstances, including:
- Expiry or upcoming expiry of an existing passport.
- Exhaustion of available visa pages.
- Damage, loss, or theft of the passport.
- Change in personal particulars, such as name or address.
Officials clarify that reissue differs from a fresh passport application, which is meant for first-time applicants.
Passport Reissue Online in India Online Application Process
Registration or Login
Applicants must visit the Passport Seva Portal and either log in with an existing account or complete a one-time registration.
Select Reissue Option
After logging in, applicants should navigate to the “Apply for Fresh Passport / Re-issue of Passport” section and choose the reissue option.
Complete the Application Form
The online form requires personal information, details of the existing passport, and the reason for reissue. Supporting documents—such as proof of identity, proof of address, date of birth certificate, and the old passport—must be uploaded.
Pay the Fee and Book an Appointment
Once the form is submitted, applicants must pay the prescribed fee through debit card, credit card, net banking, or bank challan. They can then schedule an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
Attend Appointment at PSK/POPSK
On the day of the appointment, applicants must carry original documents along with self-attested copies. Biometric data, including photographs and fingerprints, will be collected at the centre.
Police Verification (If Required)
Fresh police verification may be mandated in cases involving changes of address, name, or passports that have been expired for more than three years. For routine reissues, verification is often waived.
Tracking and Delivery
Applicants can track the status of their application online using their Application Reference Number (ARN). The reissued passport is printed and dispatched by India Post to the registered address.
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Costs and Processing Times
Fees for reissued passports depend on the number of pages (36 or 60) and the processing speed selected. The Tatkal scheme, intended for urgent travel, costs more but offers quicker turnaround. Normal applications typically take several weeks, while Tatkal applications are often processed in a few days, subject to verification.
Security and Citizen Guidance
The Ministry of External Affairs emphasises that applicants should only use the official Passport Seva Portal and avoid unauthorised agents.
Poonam Reddy, a cyber law expert at the Indian Institute of Technology Hyderabad, warned that “fraudulent intermediaries often exploit citizens unfamiliar with digital services. Using only official platforms ensures data security and avoids unnecessary costs.” Applicants are also advised to apply well before their passport’s expiry to prevent travel disruption.
