A passport is an essential document for anyone planning to travel internationally. In India, getting a passport requires a verification process to confirm the applicant’s identity, address, and background. Passport verification is conducted by the police and other relevant authorities to ensure that the applicant has provided accurate information and does not have any criminal records.
For many people, passport registration online verification can seem complicated or stressful, especially if they are not familiar with the process. However, with proper preparation and awareness, passport verification can be completed quickly and smoothly.
This guide explains how to get passport verification done smoothly, including the steps involved, required documents, tips to avoid delays, and solutions to common issues.
Understanding Passport Verification
A. What is Passport Verification?
Passport verification is the process where the government confirms the identity and address of an applicant before issuing a passport. It ensures that the passport is granted to a genuine person with a clean record.
B. Who Conducts Passport Verification?
- Police Department: Verifies the applicant’s identity and address.
- Regional Passport Office (RPO): Reviews all documents before final approval.
- Other Authorities (if necessary): If any discrepancies are found, other agencies may be involved for further verification.
C. When is Passport Verification Required?
- New passport applications.
- Renewal of passports if the old one has expired for more than three years.
- Change of address in an existing passport.
- Re-issue of a passport due to a lost or damaged passport.
Steps to Get Passport Verification Done Smoothly
- Visit the Official Website – Open the official passport portal and start your application by selecting the appropriate option for a new passport or renewal.
- Choose Passport Type – Decide whether you need a regular passport (normal processing) or a Tatkal passport (urgent processing). The Tatkal passport is issued faster but requires additional fees and verification.
- Fill Out the Application Form – Enter your details, including name, date of birth, address, and contact information. Ensure that all details match your identity documents to avoid errors or delays.
- Review and Submit the Form – Double-check all the information entered before applying. Incorrect details may lead to rejection or additional verification.
- Make Payment for Processing Fees – Choose your preferred payment method and pay the required passport application fee online. The fee varies depending on the passport type, number of pages, and processing speed.
- Get a Reference Number for Tracking – Once the application is submitted, you will receive a unique reference number. Use this number to track the status of your passport application on the official website.
- Schedule an Appointment at the Passport Office – Book an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO). Select a convenient date and time for document verification.
- Visit the Passport Office for Document Verification – Attend your appointment on time with all the necessary documents, such as your Aadhaar card, PAN card, birth certificate, and address proof. Your biometric details (fingerprints and photo) will be taken during the visit.
- Police Verification Process – After you visit the passport office, authorities will verify your identity and address through a police verification process. A police officer may visit your home or ask you to appear at the police station with original documents.
- Receive Your Passport – Once the verification is complete, your passport will be printed and dispatched via speed post. You can track the delivery status using your reference number. Once received, check all details carefully to ensure there are no errors.
Documents Required for Passport Verification
A. Identity Proof (Any One Required)
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Voter ID
- Driving License
B. Address Proof (Any One Required)
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID
- Utility Bill (Electricity, Water, Gas)
- Rent Agreement (If staying in a rented house)
- Bank Passbook with Address
C. Date of Birth Proof (Any One Required)
- Birth Certificate
- School Leaving Certificate
- Matriculation Certificate
D. Additional Documents (If Applicable)
- Marriage Certificate (if changing surname after marriage).
- Old Passport (for renewal cases).
- Annexure Form (for government employees, minors, etc.).
Tips to Ensure Smooth Passport Verification
A. Provide Accurate Information
- Fill in correct details while applying for a passport.
- Ensure name, address, and date of birth match official records.
- Any mistake in the application form can lead to delays.
B. Get All Documents Ready
- Ensure original documents and photocopies are available.
- Verify that the address on all documents matches the application.
- Carry extra copies of documents in case the officer asks for them.
C. Be Available at Home During Police Visit
- Police verification is usually done within 7 to 14 days after PSK visit.
- Ensure you or a family member is available at home to meet the officer.
- Inform the local police station if you are unavailable on the scheduled date.
D. Maintain a Good Record
- If there is any past criminal case, it must be disclosed honestly.
- Ensure that there are no pending police complaints or legal issues that can affect verification.
E. Be Polite and Cooperative with Police Officers
- Speak respectfully and answer all questions honestly.
- If the officer asks for additional documents, submit them without delay.
- Cooperating with the officer speeds up the process.
Common Problems in Passport Verification and Solutions
A. Police Verification Delay
Problem: The police take longer than expected to complete verification.
Solution:
- Contact the local police station to check the status.
- If delayed beyond 21 days, file a complaint on the Passport Seva Grievance Portal.
B. Address Does Not Match Documents
Problem: Documents show different addresses than the application.
Solution:
- Use Aadhaar update services to correct the address before applying.
- Provide a valid rent agreement if you live in a rented house.
C. No One Available at Home During Police Visit
Problem: Applicant is unavailable when the police visit.
Solution:
- Inform the police station and request a new verification date.
- Provide an alternate contact person at home who can assist.
D. Passport Rejected Due to Negative Verification
Problem: Police submit a negative report due to missing documents or incorrect details.
Solution:
- Visit the passport office with the corrected documents and request a re-verification.
- File an appeal at the Regional Passport Office (RPO).
E. Police Asking for Bribes
Problem: Some officers may demand money for clearing verification.
Solution:
- Do not pay any bribes.
- File a complaint with the Vigilance Department or RTI (Right to Information) portal.
Special Cases in Passport Verification
A. Tatkal Passport Verification
- Tatkal passports are issued faster, but police verification is done after passport issuance.
- The applicant must submit additional documents like Annexure F and Annexure I.
B. Passport for Minors
- No police verification is required if both parents have valid passports.
- If a single parent applies, a self-declaration form (Annexure C) is required.
C. Passport for Government Employees
- Government employees must submit a No Objection Certificate (NOC) or Identity Certificate (Annexure B).
Note: Now you can easily Apply for Tatkal passport through our website.
Conclusion
Getting passport verification done smoothly requires proper preparation, correct documentation, and cooperation with authorities. By following the right steps, staying informed, and addressing potential issues early, you can complete the verification process without unnecessary delays.
Smooth passport verification ensures that you receive your passport on time, allowing you to travel without hassle and complete international procedures easily.
