Do you urgently need to travel abroad or have limited time to go through the standard Passport application and approval process?
If yes, a Tatkal Passport can be a lifesaver. It is an excellent service customised for people who urgently need a Passport for foreign trips, need official documents for identification, or must manage a Passport in the eleventh hour.
Looking for more information on what is Tatkal Passport, the difference from a normal Passport, and the eligibility criteria? Keep scrolling to learn more.
Meaning of Tatkal Passport
Tatkal Passport Scheme helps one skip the regular time-consuming Passport application procedure and get it in fewer days. The Tatkal Passport process includes hassle-free application, faster processing and approval.
Applicants can now avail Passports under the Tatkal Scheme without furnishing the Verification Certificate from a Gazetted Officer. The list of acceptable documents for Tatkal 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 Tatkal Passport. The minimum number of documents required for people below 18 is two from the list of acceptable documents.
Difference between Normal and Tatkal Passport
Processing and Dispatch Timeline:
For the Tatkal 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 Tatkal Passport. For example, a normal Passport book of 36 pages costs Rs 1500, whereas a Tatkal Passport book of 36 pages costs Rs 3500 at present.
Verification:
A regular Passport requires standard verification and processing documents. Tatkal Passport might require more documents with a reason for urgency.Police Verification:
A regular Passport can only be issued with police verification. Tatkal Passport can be issued based on post-police verification (i.e., verification after Passport issuance).
Conclusion
These are significant differences between Tatkal and normal Passports. Now that you know what is a Tatkal Passport, you can also explore, compare, and take travel insurance before planning a trip abroad for tension-free travel.