Getting a passport might become simpler soon. Right now, there are 442 places in post offices where you can apply for a passport. The government wants to increase these passport application spots in post offices to 600 within the next five years. This means it could be easier for more people to apply for their passports closer to home.
The people in charge of passports (the Ministry of External Affairs) and the post office folks have made a new agreement for the next five years. This agreement makes sure that you can still apply for your passport at the special passport application centers located in post offices (called POPSKs). So, you’ll still be able to use these post office locations to get your passport sorted.
How It Works & Apply For A Passport
Getting your passport at the Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) is easy – just follow these steps:
- First, go to the Passport Seva website: passportindia.gov.in
- Then, fill in the online passport application form and submit it.
- Next, take the printed receipt of your application and your original documents to the Common Service Centre (CSC) at the post office that has a Passport Seva Kendra near you.
- Following successful verification of your application and supporting documentation, please allow between seven to fourteen working days for the issuance of your passport.
Mandatory Documents for Passport Application
The following original documents will be required for verification at the Post Office Passport Seva Kendra:
- Birth Certificate
- High School Mark Sheet
- Voter ID
- PAN Card
- Aadhaar Card
- Driving License
- Ration Card
- Notarised Affidavit (as applicable).
Verification Process
During the verification stage, biometric data, including fingerprint and retina scans, will be collected.
Passport Dispatched
Upon successful verification, the passport will be dispatched to the applicant’s registered address via Speed Post.
Emergency Collection
In the event of an urgent requirement, applicants may submit a formal request to the Regional Passport Office outlining the exigency to arrange for personal collection of the passport.