What is Tatkal passport?

Do you urgently need to travel abroad or have limited time to go through the standard Passport application and approval process?

If yes, a Tatkaal Passport can be a lifesaver. It is an excellent service customised for people who urgently need a Passport for foreign trips, needs official documents for identification, or must manage a Passport in the eleventh hour.

Looking for more information on what is Tatkaal Passport is, the difference from a normal Passport, and the eligibility criteria? Keep scrolling to learn more.

What is a Tatkaal Passport?

Tatkaal Passport Scheme helps one skip the regular time-consuming Passport application procedure and get it in fewer days. The Tatkaal Passport process includes hassle-free application, faster processing, and approval.

Applicants can now avail Passports under the Tatkaal Scheme without furnishing the Verification Certificate from a Gazetted Officer. The list of acceptable documents for Tatkaal Passport is notified in G.S.R. 939 (E) dated 16th December 2019.

Indian citizens over 18 can refer to the list of acceptable documents on the Passport India website under M.E.A. and submit any three to obtain the Tatkaal Passport. The minimum number of documents required for people below 18 is two from the list of acceptable documents.

Reasons to Apply for a Tatkaal Passport

Individuals may opt for the Tatkaal passport for various reasons, including:

1. Urgent Travel Requirements: Situations such as sudden business assignments, medical emergencies, or unforeseen personal commitments necessitating immediate international travel.
2. Lost or Damaged Passport: In cases where an individual's existing passport is lost, stolen, or damaged, and there is an urgent need for a replacement.
3. Last-Minute Realisation: Instances where individuals realise their passport is nearing expiration or has expired, coinciding with imminent travel plans.
4. Visa Application Deadlines: Scenarios where a valid passport is required promptly to meet tight visa application timelines.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Tatkaal Passport

Applying for a Tatkaal passport involves a series of steps designed to facilitate swift processing:

1. Online Registration:

• Visit the official Passport Seva portal and create an account if you haven't done so already.
• Log in to your account and select the option to apply for a fresh passport or reissue.

2. Form Submission:

• Fill out the application form online, ensuring all details are accurate.
• Alternatively, download the e-form, complete it offline, and upload it back to the portal.

3. Appointment Scheduling:

• After form submission, proceed to pay the applicable fees online.
• Make an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra or Regional Passport Office.

4. Document Preparation:

• Gather all necessary documents, including proof of identity, address, date of birth, and any additional documents specific to the Tatkaal application.

5. Visit to PSK/RPO:

• Arrive at the designated PSK or RPO on the scheduled date and time with all original documents and their photocopies.
• Complete the biometric data submission and document verification process.

6. Police Verification:

• In many Tatkaal cases, police verification is conducted post-issuance of the passport.
• Ensure availability and cooperation with local police authorities during the verification process.

7. Passport Collection:

• Upon successful verification, the passport is typically dispatched within 1 to 3 working days.
• Applicants can track the status of their application through the Passport Seva portal.

Tatkaal Passport Fees Payment

The Tatkaal Passport service has a higher fee than the regular application process, reflecting the expedited processing. The total cost comprises the standard passport application fee plus an additional Tatkaal charge. Applicants can pay online via the Passport Seva portal using credit/debit cards, internet banking, or SBI Bank Challan.

Tatkaal Scheme Eligibility

To be eligible for the Tatkaal passport scheme, applicants must meet specific criteria:

• Indian Citizenship: The individual needs to be a citizen of India.
• Valid Reason for Expedited Service: Applicants should have a legitimate reason necessitating urgent passport issuance.
• Complete Documentation: All required documents must be in order, and any discrepancies can lead to delays or rejection.
• No Adverse Records: Applicants with adverse records or pending legal proceedings may not be eligible for the Tatkaal scheme.

Documents Required for Tatkaal Passport

Applicants need to submit specific documents when applying under the Tatkaal scheme:

1. Proof of Date of Birth: Birth certificate, school leaving certificate, or any other valid document.
2. Proof of Address: Utility bills, bank statements, or rental agreements.
3. Identity Proof with Photograph: Aadhaar card, PAN card, or voter ID.
4. Annexure E: A self-declaration form affirming the applicant's citizenship, family details, and absence of criminal records.
5. Additional Documents: Depending on individual circumstances, additional documents such as Annexure F or I may be required.

It's advisable to consult the official Passport Seva portal or the nearest PSK for a comprehensive list of required documents.

How Much Time Does It Take for a Tatkaal Passport?

The Tatkaal Passport service is renowned for its swift processing times. Typically, applicants receive their passports within 1 to 3 working days after the application is submitted and verified. The time taken for processing a Tatkaal passport varies based on the timely completion of police verification and compliance with the document requirements and rules.

Difference Between Normal and Tatkaal Passport

There are a few key differences between normal and tatkaal passports-

• Processing and Dispatch Timeline:

For the Tatkaal Passport, it takes 1 to 3 days for dispatch from the day the applicant visits the Passport Sewa Kendra. For a normal Passport, it can take between 30 and 45 days.

• Passport Fees:

A normal Passport is cheaper than a Tatkaal Passport. For example, a normal Passport book of 36 pages costs Rs 1500, whereas a Tatkaal Passport book of 36 pages costs Rs 3500 at present.

• Verification:

A regular Passport requires standard verification and processing documents. Tatkaal Passport might require more documents with a reason for urgency.

• Police Verification:

A regular Passport can only be issued with police verification. Tatkaal Passport can be issued based on post-police verification (i.e., verification after Passport issuance).

Conclusion

If you require an emergency or urgent travel and don't have a valid passport, you can get a Tatkaal passport at the earliest. When travelling abroad, securing your trip is necessary. You can compare and find the ideal comprehensive travel insurance online and ensure you are protected against unforeseen challenges during your trips.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog is for educational and informational purposes only. It may contain outdated data and information regarding the topic featured in the article. 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.