The Tatkal Passport Scheme is an expedited service provided by the Government of India for those who need a passport urgently. Under the Tatkal scheme, individuals can receive their passport within 1 to 3 working days after successfully submitting their application. This service is especially useful for individuals who have an immediate need for travel or other important matters requiring passport documentation. In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about applying for an Indian Passport under the Tatkal Scheme, including the step-by-step procedure and the necessary documents required.

What is the Tatkal Passport Scheme?

The Tatkal Passport Scheme is designed to fast-track the passport application process for individuals in need of urgent services. Unlike the normal passport process, which may take several weeks, the Tatkal scheme ensures the applicant receives their passport in a much shorter period, generally within 1 to 3 days. However, this expedited service comes with additional fees compared to the regular process.

Eligibility for Tatkal Passport

Before applying under the Tatkal scheme, it’s essential to ensure you meet the eligibility criteria:

• Indian Citizen: The applicant must be an Indian citizen.
• Emergency Requirement: The Tatkal service is ideal for applicants who require a passport urgently for reasons such as travel, job opportunities, or educational purposes.

Procedure to Apply for Tatkal Passport

Step 1: Visit the Passport Seva Portal

Begin by visiting the official Passport Seva website (passportindia.gov.in) and register yourself if you haven’t already done so. Existing users can log in using their credentials.

Step 2: Complete the Application Form

Once logged in, choose the option to apply for a fresh or reissue passport under the Tatkal scheme. Complete the online application form, ensuring that all the details you provide are accurate and up to date. The application form will require information such as:

• Personal details (name, date of birth, address, etc.)
• Details about your previous passport (if applying for reissue)
• Travel plans or reason for urgency

Step 3: Choose the Tatkal Option

While filling out the application, you’ll be prompted to choose between Normal or Tatkal service. Select Tatkal for the expedited process. Note that you will need to pay additional fees for the Tatkal option.

Step 4: Pay the Fees

The Tatkal scheme requires an additional fee over the standard application cost. The fees for the Tatkal service are as follows:

• For a 36-page passport, the total fee is INR 3,000 (normal fee) + INR 2,000 (Tatkal fee) = INR 5,000.
• For a 60-page passport, the total fee is INR 3,500 (normal fee) + INR 2,000 (Tatkal fee) = INR 5,500.

The payment can be made online via net banking, credit card, or debit card.

Step 5: Schedule an Appointment

After completing the payment, schedule an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Passport Office. Tatkal appointments are prioritized, meaning you will be able to book the earliest available slot for document submission and verification.

Step 6: Visit the Passport Seva Kendra

On the date of your appointment, visit the Passport Seva Kendra with all the required documents. It is crucial to carry both the original documents and photocopies as they will be verified at the PSK. The verification process includes:

• Document verification
• Biometric data collection (fingerprints, photograph)
• Final submission of the application

Step 7: Police Verification (If Required)

In most cases, police verification is initiated post-issuance of the passport under the Tatkal scheme. However, for applicants who have had any adverse police records or discrepancies in documentation, police verification might be required before issuing the passport.

Step 8: Receive Your Passport

Once the application and documents are verified, the passport will be dispatched within 1 to 3 days, depending on the specific case and location. You can track the status of your application on the Passport Seva portal.

Documents Required for Tatkal Passport

The documents required for applying under the Tatkal scheme are more stringent compared to the normal procedure. Below is a detailed list of the essential documents that you need to submit along with your application:

1. Proof of Identity (Any one of the following)

• Aadhar Card
• PAN Card
• Voter ID Card
• Driving License

2. Proof of Address (Any one of the following)

• Aadhar Card
• Electricity Bill
• Water Bill
• Rent Agreement (registered)
• Bank Passbook (with recent transactions)

3. Proof of Date of Birth (Any one of the following)

• Birth Certificate issued by a municipal authority
• Matriculation Certificate
• School leaving certificate or transfer certificate
• PAN Card (if the date of birth is mentioned)

4. Annexure ‘F’ (Identity Certificate)

For Tatkal applications, it is mandatory to submit Annexure ‘F’, which is an identity certificate signed by a Gazetted Officer. This document confirms your identity and supports your urgent requirement for a passport.

5. Annexure ‘I’ (Affidavit for Lost Passport)

If you are applying for a reissue of your passport under the Tatkal scheme due to loss or theft, you need to submit Annexure ‘I’, an affidavit detailing the circumstances of the lost passport.

6. Passport Size Photographs

Carry at least two recent passport-sized photographs as per the specifications mentioned on the Passport Seva website.

7. Old Passport (If applicable)

For individuals applying for a reissue, it’s necessary to carry the old passport and photocopies of relevant pages (front and back).

8. Document Verification Receipt

If your police verification is pending from a previous passport application, bring the verification receipt along with your other documents.

Tips for a Smooth Tatkal Passport Process

• Book your appointment early: Tatkal slots fill up quickly, especially during peak travel seasons. Make sure to book as soon as possible.
• Double-check documents: Ensure you have all the necessary documents to avoid any delays at the Passport Seva Kendra.
• Be prompt: Arrive on time for your appointment. Missing your scheduled time can cause delays in processing.
• Use accurate details: Filling out incorrect information can result in delays or rejections of your application. Review your form thoroughly before submission.

Common Issues Faced During Tatkal Passport Application

While the Tatkal Passport Scheme is designed to offer a smooth and expedited process, applicants sometimes face challenges. Here are some common issues that may arise and how to handle them:

1. Document Discrepancies

One of the most frequent problems faced by applicants is discrepancies in their documents, especially with proof of identity or address. Any mismatch in information (e.g., name or address inconsistencies between documents) can lead to delays in the application process. Solution: Before applying, ensure that all documents have consistent and accurate information. If needed, update your documents, such as your Aadhar or Voter ID, to reflect the correct information.

2. Missing Annexures

Many applicants overlook the importance of submitting the required annexures, particularly Annexure ‘F’ (Identity Certificate). Without this, the application under the Tatkal scheme will not be processed. Solution: Ensure that you have all the necessary annexures ready and signed by the appropriate authorities, such as a Gazetted Officer, before your appointment.

3. Difficulty in Booking Appointments

Due to high demand for Tatkal services, finding an available appointment slot can sometimes be challenging, particularly during peak seasons like holidays or academic admission times. Solution: To increase your chances of securing a slot, regularly check the Passport Seva Kendra website, as new slots are frequently added. Booking during non-peak hours or less busy times of the year can also help.

4. Pending Police Verification

In some cases, applicants who have a pending police verification from previous passport applications may face delays in their Tatkal passport processing. Solution: To avoid delays, ensure that any previous police verifications are completed. You can check the status of your police verification on the Passport Seva portal and follow up with your local police station if necessary.

Tatkal Passport Renewal Process

For individuals who already hold a passport and need to renew it under the Tatkal scheme, the procedure is similar to that of a fresh passport. However, there are a few key points to keep in mind:

• Carry Your Old Passport: If you are renewing your passport, it’s essential to carry your old passport, as the information will be cross-checked.
• Additional Documents: If your old passport is damaged or has expired for more than three years, additional documents and police verification might be required before the issuance of a new passport under the Tatkal scheme.
• Fees for Reissue: The fees for renewing a passport under the Tatkal scheme are the same as those for a new passport, as mentioned earlier. Be prepared to pay the additional INR 2,000 Tatkal fee.

Conclusion

The Tatkal Passport Scheme is an invaluable service for Indian citizens who need to obtain their passports on short notice. By following the right procedure and ensuring that you have all the required documents, you can expedite the process and receive your passport quickly. To avoid delays, be sure to:

• Double-check your documents for accuracy.
• Book your appointment as soon as possible.
• Keep track of your police verification status, if applicable.

FAQs about the Tatkal Passport Scheme

1. How long does it take to get a passport under the Tatkal scheme?

Typically, passports issued under the Tatkal scheme are delivered within 1 to 3 working days after the submission of the application and verification of documents.

2. Can I apply for a Tatkal passport if my current passport is not expired yet?

Yes, you can apply for a Tatkal passport reissue even if your current passport is still valid. However, you will need to provide a valid reason for the early renewal.

3. What if my police verification is still pending?

For most applicants, police verification is conducted post-issuance of the passport under the Tatkal scheme. However, in cases where prior police verification is pending, it may need to be cleared before the passport is issued.

4. Can I use the Tatkal scheme for a lost or stolen passport?

Yes, if you have lost or misplaced your passport, you can still apply for a new one under the Tatkal scheme. In such cases, you must submit Annexure ‘I’ (an affidavit explaining the loss of the passport) along with a police report, if required.

5. Is the Tatkal passport fee refundable?

No, the additional fee charged for the Tatkal service is non-refundable, even if there are delays in processing or the application is rejected.

6. Is police verification always required for a Tatkal passport?

Police verification may or may not be required before passport issuance, depending on your application and whether you’ve had a previous police verification. In most cases, for fresh passport applications, police verification is done post-issuance.