Updated on - 20 Jan 2026
One of the most frequently asked questions about passport renewal is whether police verification is required. This step is needed to verify your identity and correctly issue the passport to the designated person. While not every renewal requires police verification, knowing when it applies can save you time and confusion.
The requirement depends on factors such as changes in personal details, your passport type or any gaps since your last verification. Read on to know more about the process of police verification and how it works.
Is police verification required for passport renewal in India?
In India, police verification for passport renewal is not required, especially when the application is submitted before the passport's expiration date. This is how it goes:
- No police verification: If one is renewing his/her passport before its expiration date, fresh police verification is usually not required. Once a verification is done, it remains valid.
- Pre-police verification: Your application is sent for pre-police verification in case your previous passport was not verified or your circumstances have changed. It involves checking before your new passport is issued.
- Police verification: In certain cases, such as government employees or holders of certain certificates, verification only occurs after a passport has been issued.
So, while police verification is not usually needed for a simple renewal, some special cases may require it.
Situations when police verification is required
Police verification becomes necessary in specific situations to confirm your identity and current residence. The process checks that there are no pending criminal records or discrepancies in your details.
If your current address differs from the one mentioned in your previous passport, a new verification is mandatory. Similarly, if you are applying for a passport renewal after the expiry date has exceeded three years, the authorities will initiate a fresh verification. It is also required when you have changed your name or marital status, or if your previous passport was issued without a prior police verification.
In some cases, if the Regional Passport Office (RPO) identifies any inconsistencies in your application, it can request police verification to validate the details before processing the renewal.
Cases when police verification is not required or is waived
In some renewal cases, you may not need to undergo police verification. This mainly applies when your personal details match your previous passport records.
If your last passport was issued with a clear police verification report, renewal can be easily processed without another round of verification. If you hold a diplomatic or an official passport, your request may be processed immediately.
Police verification may be shifted to a post-issuance basis when applying under the Tatkal scheme, provided you submit valid supporting documents like an Annexure F (from a government officer) or Annexure I (self-declaration). These documents confirm your credentials and allow faster processing without additional verification delays.
Documents needed for passport police verification
When called for police verification, having the correct documents ready can help avoid unnecessary delays. You’ll need to provide both original and self-attested copies of the required papers.
Begin by submitting your passport application form and proof of identity, such as your Aadhaar, PAN, driver’s license or voter ID. You’ll also need proof of address, which can include utility bills, a rental agreement or a bank statement indicating your current address.
For new applications, you may be required to show your birth certificate and marriage certificate.
If your renewal involves a change of address, additional documents verifying the new residence will be required. Carry passport-size photographs if instructed by the local police office. In some cases, you may also need to show your old passport, especially its first, last and address pages, along with the Annexures applicable under your renewal category.
These documents make the verification process smooth and help authorities confirm your identity and address before forwarding the clearance to the Passport Seva Kendra.
Conclusion
Now that you have read about passport renewal and police verification, it is clear that this step is a must for maintaining accurate records and ensuring the safety and security of citizens. Timely police verification for passport renewal also helps in processing your passport without unnecessary complications.
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FAQs
1. Can police verification be done online for passport renewal?
No, police verification requires a physical check, though you can schedule appointments and track the application online.
2. How long does police verification take for passport renewal
Usually, it takes 7-15 days, but timelines may vary depending on local police workload.
3. Is police verification required if my address hasn’t changed?
For minor renewals with no change in personal details, verification is often waived.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the Insurance industry and products. It is advised to verify the currency and relevance of the data and information before taking any major steps. ICICI Lombard is not liable for any inaccuracies or consequences resulting from the use of this outdated information.