How to Check Your Passport Application Status?
There are two main ways to check your passport status in India – online and offline.
1. Online:
Passport Seva Portal: Visit Passport Seva, select ‘Track Your Application Status,’ and enter your file number and date of birth.
mPassport Seva App: Download, register, and log in to the app. Enter your file number and date of birth.
2. Offline:
National Call Centre: Call 1800 258 1800 (8:00 AM to 10:00 PM) to get your status update.
Local Passport Seva Kendra (PSK): Visit the nearest PSK with your file number and date of birth to inquire at the information counter.
SMS: Send STATUS <FILE NUMBER> to 9704 100 100 from your registered mobile number.
When it comes to checking the status of your passport application, having the right information at hand is crucial. Regardless of the channel you choose to use—online or offline—you will need the following key details:
a) Passport File Number: This is a unique 15-digit number assigned to you upon the submission of your passport application. It serves as an essential identifier in the tracking system.
b) Date of Birth: Your date of birth is required to verify your identity and match it with your passport application file.
Using your credentials, you can follow different ways to track passport application status online/offline, as mentioned in the step-by-step breakdown of each way to check your passport status below.
How To Check Passport Status Online?
To Check the passport status online, there are two ways:
- Via Passport Seva Portal
- Via mPassport Seva Mobile App
If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide of how each channel works. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. Via Passport Seva Portal/Website
Step 1: Visit the Official Passport Seva Website.
Step 2: Select the ‘Track Your Application Status‘ Tab:
- On the homepage, find and click on the ‘Track Your Application Status’ option. This is typically located on the right side of the screen.
Step 3: Choose the type of passport application:
You will be redirected to a new page where you need to select the type of passport application from a drop-down menu. Options may include:
1. Fresh Passport
2. Reissue of passport
3. Diplomatic passport
4. Official passport
5. And other types specific to your application
Step 4: Enter the required details in the provided fields:
– File Number: This is a unique 15-digit number assigned to your application. You can find this number on your passport application receipt.
– Date of Birth: Enter your date of birth in the prescribed format (dd/mm/yyyy).
Step 5: Track your status:
After entering your details, click on the ‘Track Status’ button.
Step 6: View your application status
The current status of your passport application will be displayed on the screen. This status update is in real-time and will reflect the most recent information available about your application.
2. Via mPassport Seva Mobile App
Step 1: Download and Install the mPassport Seva App on your mobile phone.
For iOS Users: Visit the App Store and search for “mPassport Seva.”
For Android Users: Visit the Google Play Store and search for “mPassport Seva.”
Download and install the app on your smartphone.
Step 2: Register on the App
1. Open the app and complete the registration process by providing the necessary details. This may include your name, email address, and phone number.
2. Create a secure password for your account.
Step 3: Log In to Your Account
After registering, log in to the app using your credentials.
Step 4: Navigate to the ‘Track Application Status’ Section
Once logged in, find the ‘Track Application Status’ option in the app’s menu.
Step 5: Enter required details
Application File Number: Input the unique 15-digit file number assigned to your passport application.
Date of Birth: Enter your date of birth in the specified format (dd/mm/yyyy).
Step 6: Track your application
Tap on the ‘Track Status’ button after entering the required details.
Step 7: View your application status
The app will display the current status of your passport application, providing real-time updates directly on your screen.
Also Read: The Strongest Passports Of The World In 2024
How To Track Passport Application Status Offline?
To check your passport application status offline, there are 3 ways:
1. Check Passport Status Via SMS
2. Check Passport Status Via Help Desk
3. Check Passport Status Via National Toll Free Number
If you’re looking for a step-by-step guide of how each channel works. Here’s a detailed breakdown:
1. via SMS
To track the status of your passport application via SMS, follow these steps:
Use Your Registered Mobile Number:
Ensure you send the SMS from the mobile number registered with your passport application.
Send an SMS:
Format your SMS as follows: STATUS <FILE NUMBER>
Send this SMS to 9704 100 100.Receive Status Update:
You will receive an SMS containing the current status of your passport application.
- Important Note: This SMS service is not free and may incur standard SMS charges
2. Via Helpdesk
If you prefer to check your passport application status in person, you can use the offline helpdesk services at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Here’s how:
o) Visit the Nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK): Go to the PSK or Regional Passport Office closest to your location.
o) Locate the Information Counter: Upon arrival, look for the information counter where you can make inquiries.
o) Inquire About Your Application Status: Ask the staff at the information counter for the status of your currently submitted passport application.
Note: You can also request the status of your application by sending an email to the PSK office with your file number and date of birth. Sometimes, the online delivery status might not reflect the actual real-time delivery status. Therefore, it is advisable to contact your nearest Speed Post Centre for the most accurate information. If the personnel at the Speed Post Centre are unable to locate your address, your passport will be returned to the sender. In such cases, please reach out to your Regional Passport Office for further assistance.
3. Via National Toll Free Number
o) For all Indian citizens (except Jammu and Kashmir, and North-eastern states): Call 1800 258 1800 (toll-free). This service is available from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM. During non-working hours, an automated Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) will provide the necessary information.
o) For residents of Jammu and Kashmir: Call 040-66720567 (regular charges may apply).
o) For residents of North-eastern states: Call 040-66720581 (regular charges may apply).
Various Stages of Tracking Passport Application On The Passport Seva Portal
The Passport Seva Portal provides a detailed and systematic way to track your passport application status. Here are the various stages you might encounter when tracking your passport application:
1. Application Submitted: This initial stage indicates that your application has been successfully submitted and is under processing.
2. Application Verified: This stage confirms that your application details have been verified. This includes verifying the documents submitted with your application.
3. Passport Status Created: This means that your application has been formally registered and entered into the Passport Seva system, and processing has commenced. The “Created” status is essentially an acknowledgment that your application is now in the system and will be moved forward through various stages such as document verification, police verification (if required), and eventually, printing and dispatching of the passport.
4. Police Verification Initiated: At this stage, your application has been forwarded to the local police for verification. Police verification is an essential part of the passport issuance process.
5. Police Verification Completed: This indicates that the local police have completed the verification of your details.
6. PCC Status: After the police verification is completed and found satisfactory, the Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is issued. The PCC indicates that the individual has no criminal record or adverse information on file. Post this process, the police send their report back to the Passport Seva Kendra.
7. Passport Printing Initiated: Once the police verification is completed and approved, the process of printing your passport is initiated.
8. Passport Printed: This stage confirms that your passport has been printed and is ready for dispatch.
9. Passport Dispatched: Your passport has been dispatched to your address via Indian Speed Post. You will receive a tracking number to monitor the delivery status.
10. Passport Delivered: The final stage, indicating that your passport has been successfully delivered to the address provided in your application.
How to Check the Passport Police Verification Status?
1. Go to Passport Seva.
2. Log in using your registered credentials.
3. Find and click on the ‘Track Application Status’ option.
4. Enter your file number and date of birth.
5. Click on ‘Track Status’ to view the current status of your police verification
How To Track Passport Dispatch And Delivery Status?
Follow these steps to check your passport dispatch status on the Indian Speed Post Portal:
1. Visit the Passport Seva Portal: Log in to your account to obtain your 13-digit tracking number.
2. Visit the India Post’s Official Website: Navigate to India Post’s official website.
3. Navigate to the ‘Track Consignment’ Section: Find the ‘Track Consignment’ section on the homepage.
4. Enter Your Tracking Number: Input your 13-digit tracking number in the ‘Consignment Number’ box.
5. Click on the ‘Search’ Button: If your delivery tracking information isn’t available, it means that your passport hasn’t been dispatched.
If the delivery tracking information is not available, it implies that your passport has not yet been dispatched.
Addressing Delivery Issues:
Online vs. Real-Time Status: Sometimes, the online delivery status might not reflect real-time updates. For the most accurate information, contact your nearest Speed Post Centre directly.
Handling Delivery Problems: If the Speed Post Centre personnel are unable to locate your address, the passport will be returned to the sender. In such cases, contact your Regional Passport Office for assistance in re-dispatching or collecting your passport.
Can You Collect the Passport from the Regional Passport Office?
Yes, in emergencies, you can collect your passport from the Regional Passport Office. However, there are specific steps and conditions to be aware of:
1. Application Form: You must fill out an application form explaining the urgent need to collect the passport in person.
2. Approval Process: The Regional Passport officers will review your application. They have the discretion to accept or reject your request based on the urgency and validity of the reason provided.
What does it mean when your passport is “ready for dispatch”?
When your passport is “ready for dispatch,” it means that the processing of your passport application is complete, and your new passport is prepared for delivery. This indicates that your passport has been printed, approved, and is about to be sent to the address you provided during the application process
Tips for a Seamless Passport Tracking Experience
1. Keep Your Credentials Handy: Always have your file number and date of birth ready.
2. Use Official Channels: Track your status via the Passport Seva Portal or mPassport Seva app.
3. Stay Updated: Regularly check the status online for any changes.
4. Verify Contact Details: Ensure your registered mobile number and email are up-to-date.
5. Seek Help When Needed: Contact the Passport Seva helpline or visit the nearest PSK if issues arise.
Time Taken to Process Your Passport
The time taken to process your passport in India varies based on the type of application:
- Normal Application: Typically takes 30 to 45 days from the date of submission.
- Tatkal Application: Generally processed within 1 to 7 days, subject to verification and approval.
Other Important Passport-Related Information
Passport Information:
A passport is an official travel document issued by a government that certifies the identity and nationality of its holder for international travel. It includes personal details such as the holder’s name, photo, date of birth, and nationality.
Passport Application Online:
Applying for a passport online involves filling out the application form on the Passport Seva portal, uploading the required documents, and scheduling an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).
Documents Required for Passport in India:
To apply for a passport in India, you need documents such as proof of address, proof of date of birth, and identity proof. Common documents include an Aadhaar card, voter ID, and birth certificate.
Appointment Availability Status:
The status indicating the availability of appointment slots at Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) for applicants to schedule their visit. It is checked during the initial stages of the passport application process, prior to submitting the application and tracking its status.
Passport Application Form:
The passport application form can be filled out online on the Passport Seva portal. It includes sections for personal information, address details, and passport-specific details.
Passport Renewal:
Passport renewal involves reapplying for a passport that is about to expire or has expired. The process is similar to applying for a new passport and can be done online or at a PSK.
Documents for Passport:
Common documents needed for a passport include proof of address, proof of date of birth, and identity proof. Additional documents may be required for specific cases like minor passports or re-issues.
Passport Enquiry:
You can make inquiries about passport application status, required documents, or any other related information through the Passport Seva portal, helpline numbers, or by visiting a PSK.
Check Passport Status:
The status of your passport application can be checked online via the Passport Seva portal or the mPassport Seva mobile app by entering your file number and date of birth.
Police Clearance Certificate:
A Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) is issued to Indian passport holders when they apply for residential status, employment, or long-term visa or immigration. It certifies that the individual has no criminal records.
Passport Renewal Process:
The passport renewal process involves filling out the renewal application form online, submitting the necessary documents, paying the fees, and attending the appointment at the PSK.
Tatkal Passport:
A Tatkal passport is issued under the Tatkal scheme for those needing a passport urgently. The process is expedited, and the passport is typically issued within a few days, subject to verification.
Passport Dispatch Status:
Once the passport is processed, its dispatch status can be tracked via the Passport Seva portal or the India Post website using the 13-digit tracking number provided.
Police Verification for Passport:
Police verification is a crucial step in the passport application process where the police verify the applicant’s address and background. It is required for first-time applicants and sometimes for renewals.
Passport Address Change:
To change the address on your passport, you need to apply for a reissue of the passport with the new address proof. The process can be initiated online via the Passport Seva portal.
Passport Renewal Status:
Passport renewal status indicates the current stage of processing for your passport application. It helps applicants know if their renewal request has been received, approved, or if further action is required. Checking the status regularly can ensure timely updates and help address any issues promptly.
Passport Renewal Tracking:
Passport renewal tracking allows applicants to monitor the progress of their renewal application through an official tracking system. By using a tracking number, individuals can access real-time updates on their application status. This service provides peace of mind and ensures applicants stay informed throughout the process.
FAQs on Passport Status Check 2024
No, the National Call Centre does not provide 24×7 customer care service. It operates from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM every day of the week. During non-operational hours, customers can use the automated Interactive Voice Response System (IVRS) to get information.
PSK stands for Passport Seva Kendra, a regional office where applicants can apply for a new passport, renew an existing one, or make modifications.
Yes, the passport tracking service provides detailed information on the status of your application, including where it is stuck and any further actions needed.
You can check your passport status and details on the Passport Seva portal. The information is generally updated 14 days after the application or renewal process.
You can check the dispatch status of your passport by visiting the official Passport Seva portal and using the tracking feature provided there.
To check your passport status using your mobile number, send an SMS in the format STATUS [FILE NUMBER] to 9704100100. This should be done using the mobile number registered during your passport application process.
No, typically you are not permitted to pick up your passport in person from the Regional Passport Office. It is usually dispatched to your address.
No, providing the date of birth is mandatory to track the status of a passport application.
Yes, the status of the police verification report, including whether it has been submitted or is still pending, can be checked through the passport tracking service.
You can track your passport status online using the official Passport Seva portal or the mPassport Seva mobile app. Offline, you can call the National Passport Information Center at 1800 258 1800 or send an SMS to 9704 100 100.
The passport tracking file number is an alphanumeric reference code assigned to you after you submit your passport application and pay the necessary fee. It helps monitor the progress of your application.
According to government regulations, the typical timeframe to receive an Indian passport is between 30 to 45 days from the date of application.
Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) operates from Monday to Friday between 9:30 AM and 4:30 PM. The timings for token issuance are between 9:30 AM and 4:00 PM.
No, under the current system, all applicants must be physically present at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and submit their application with the Application Print receipt and original documents after applying online.
Check the delivery status on the India Post website using the tracking number. If there are issues, contact your nearest Speed Post center or the Passport Office from which your passport was dispatched for assistance.
To verify your passport status in India, visit the Passport Seva website, log in, and check the “Track Application Status” section with your file number and date of birth. Alternatively, send “STATUS [File Number]” to 9704100100 via SMS.
