Applying for a passport online in India has become significantly simpler and more streamlined in recent years, thanks to the Passport Seva Programme managed by the Ministry of External Affairs. Today, in 2026, most applicants submit passport requests through the online Passport Seva portal , which lets users fill out and submit their applications from the comfort of their homes before they visit a Passport Seva Kendra for document verification and biometric enrolment. In this guide, we walk you through the complete process of applying for an Indian passport online in 2026, and we also cover the application types, required documents, fee structure, and timeline for receiving your passport.
Types of Indian Passports and Which One You Need
India issues two main types of passports to citizens: the Standard Passport (also called the Ordinary Passport) with a navy blue cover, and the Official Passport (white cover) and Diplomatic Passport (maroon cover), which government authorities issue to officials traveling on official duty. For most citizens, however, the Standard Passport serves as the appropriate document when they apply for personal travel. Authorities offer standard passports in 36 or 60 pages, and they generally recommend the 60-page booklet for frequent international travellers. Officials grant first-time applicants a fresh passport valid for 10 years, while they issue passports to minors under 15 years of age with a validity of 5 years or until the child turns 18, whichever comes earlier.
Required Documents for Passport Application 2026
The documents required for an Indian passport application in 2026 depend on the applicant’s status and specific circumstances. In most standard adult cases, applicants must provide essential documents such as proof of address like an Aadhaar card, voter identity card, or utility bills. They must also submit proof of date of birth, for example a birth certificate or school leaving certificate that shows the date of birth. Additionally, authorities may ask for proof of Indian citizenship for individuals who were not born in India or whose parents were born abroad, along with recent passport-sized photographs that meet the specified format requirements. For minors, parents must additionally provide consent and identity documents. Applicants must present documents in their original form along with self-attested photocopies at the time of the Passport Seva Kendra appointment.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying Online Through Passport Seva Portal
How to Apply for Passport Online in India 2026, The online passport application process begins at the official Passport Seva portal at passportindia.gov.in. First, you create a new account on the portal using your email address and mobile number, and then you verify your account through the OTP sent to your registered contact details. Once you log in, you select the type of application either Fresh Application for a first passport or Renewal for an expiring passport. Next, you fill in the online application form with accurate personal details, address information, family details, and emergency contact information. After you complete the form, review all details carefully before you submit it. Following submission, you must schedule an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
Passport Seva Kendra Appointment: What to Expect
After you schedule your Passport Seva Kendra appointment through the online portal, the system sends you a confirmation with your appointment date, time, and the specific PSK location. Therefore, you should arrive at the PSK at least 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time. At the PSK, staff guide you through a three-step process: first, officers verify your documents at Counter A; next, staff collect your documents and return originals at Counter B; and finally, technicians capture your biometric data, including fingerprints and photograph, at Counter C. The entire process at the PSK usually takes 30 to 60 minutes depending on the volume of applicants. So, make sure you carry all required original documents along with their self-attested photocopies.
Passport Fee Structure 2026
The fee for an Indian passport application in 2026 depends on the type of passport booklet and the urgency of processing. The standard fee for a 36-page passport valid for 10 years is Rs 1,500, while applicants pay Rs 2,000 for a 60-page passport of the same validity. If you require urgent processing, you can choose the Tatkal scheme, under which authorities charge an additional Tatkal fee of Rs 2,000 on top of the standard fee. Applicants pay passport fees online at the time of application through net banking, debit card, or credit card. Moreover, applicants who opt for SMS and email notification services pay a small additional charge for tracking updates.
How Long Does Passport Processing Take in 2026
The processing time for an Indian passport under the normal scheme typically ranges from 30 to 45 calendar days from the date of the Passport Seva Kendra appointment. Usually, police authorities conduct address verification as part of processing, and this step most often causes delays. Under the Tatkal scheme, authorities expedite processing and provide a delivery timeline of 1 to 7 business days, though police verification may still occasionally delay issuance. Applicants can track the status of their passport application online through the Passport Seva portal or through the mPassport Seva mobile app, where they can see whether their application is under police verification, processing, printing, dispatched, or delivered.
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Conclusion
How to Apply for Passport Online in India 2026 is a manageable process, and most applicants can complete it successfully when they follow the steps outlined above and ensure all required documents remain in order. Overall, the Passport Seva programme has significantly reduced complexity and processing time compared to earlier manual procedures. Finally, stay tuned to Taza Newsz for the latest updates on passport application procedures, document requirements, fee changes, and government services information.
