How to Re-issue Your Passport in India

Photo by Olivia Anne Snyder on Unsplash

This article is written from my experience while re-issuing my passport. I am unaware if all the facilities are available at all the Bangalore offices, hence, specifying the location; Passsport Seva Kendra Sudhama Nagar, Bangalore.

I made two trips to the passport office in two days after doing weeks of research for information and keeping documents ready. I found that the answers on Quora are either older than 3 years or irrelevant now. While some helped, the official Passsport Seva Kendra (PSK) website was an additional resource. But, a person’s personal experience might be easier to break down the process.

I will divide this article as follows:

>A quick over view of the process to reissue a passport
>Resources (Quick links)
>Documents required
>Remember from my experience

A Quick Overview of the process

1. Log into the official PSK website here.
2. Register/Log in.
3. Create an application and select the purpose as applicable. (I`ll be discussing for reissue due to expiry).
4. Once the application is completed, you will be given a choice to choose the PSK center. You can also select the date.
5. The time slot is allotted. You cannot select a time slot.
6. Upon submission, you will receive the appointment message and email. You do not need a paper copy, but can carry one for yourself.
7. After reaching the venue, you have to wait until your “block” is called. Remember the slot number mentioned on your appointment letter, that is your block number. The security guard will call out the number, so pay attention.
8. Download Arogya Setu App. It is mandatory. You can download while waiting in line. (This application was created in view of COVID-19).
9. Your temperature will be checked at the gate (again, in view of COVID-19).
10. You have to show the appointment letter at the gate.
11. Once you enter, again, you are asked to show the appointment letter and Arogya Setu App.
12. After a body scan/check, you will be allowed inside.
13. First counter: show your appointment pdf/email. The person-in-charge will ask you for the documents. Keep self-attested copies(sign copies of the original documents) handy, along with originals.
14. Second counter (A): You will receive a token number from the first counter. Proceed as directed to a waiting area, until your token number is called.
15. At the second counter, you have to hand over your papers as given by the first counter. You will be asked for the originals too.
16. Here, your photo will be clicked and you have to confirm that all your details in the forms submitted are correct.
17. If you opted for SMS service while filling the application online, you have to pay 50 rupees.
18. Buying a passport cover is optional and 400 rupees. You can refuse to purchase a cover.
19. Third counter (B): Hand over the papers again, along with 10th marks card + original passport + Adhaar card + Temporary address proof (if asked).
20. Fourth counter ( C ): Here, your original passport will be stamped. This means the process is complete and now you have to wait for police verification to be completed.

Resources

PSK official website : click here.

Documents Required

1. 10th marks card
2. 12 marks card
3. Degree marks-cards
4. Adhaar card
5. Pan card
6. Proof of temporary residence (if it is a bank statement, it has to be photo-attested by the bank. Get a copy of the passbook and bank statement).
7. You can also check the requirements of the application form and verify that you have your documents.
8. Ensure that your parents’ names are constant with your documents.

Remember From My Experience

Everything documented in this article is from my experience at:
location: Passport Seva Kendra Sudhama Nagar.

1. Don’t panic. I panicked that everyone had a photocopy of their appointment letter. The message on your mobile/ email is enough.
2. You can access your application through the official website.
3. The staff is helpful. Ask if you have any doubts.
4. If you don’t have photocopies, there is a photocopier available in the office for public use. It is not free.
5. Ensure that your documents are right. Twice, my application was almost rejected. First, I only had a self-attested bank statement. It has to be photo-attested by the bank. Second, my parents’ last name is not printed on my markscard, but luckily, it was in my original passport.
6. If rejected for any reason, ask them what next? What do you need to do? Don’t walk away immediately dejected and frustrated. The internet does not have all the answers. Ask the officials while you are there.
7. Go early, stand in the queue, but keep an eye on the block number (slot number in your application).
8. If you are returning the second time because one or more documents was rejected, you can request the guard to allow you inside before allocated slot time. This might work, because it will move faster, even though you have to go through all the counters for a new token number.
9. Lastly and most importantly, be nice. Everyone needs help. Be nice and kind. Don’t give false information if you are not sure, instead direct them to ask an employee.
10. If you are visiting during COVID-19 pandemic, ensure to maintains safe distance, wear your mask at all times and carry a sanitizer.
11. I read online that you have to be living in the address you have provided. If it is a PG address, a temporary address, provide it along with permanent address. If you give your permanent address and you are in another city, your application might get held up during police verification.
12. If you are providing a PG address, first check with the owner if they are willing to speak to the police when they visit for verification. Some owners are hesitant and might refused or charge you (mentioned by a person on Quora).

Please drop a comment if you have any additional questions. If I am sure about it, I will be happy to help.

This entire article is based on my experience and the provided information is subject to change due to updated process or any other reason.