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This page focuses on services you need when the routine passport process isn't enough: urgent re-issues, travel under emergency conditions, corrections of identity details, police clearance certificates, converting child passports to adult ones, and procedures when citizenship status changes. Each subsection includes what to prepare, typical timelines, and common pitfalls.

1) Lost or Stolen Passport — How to Replace

Losing a passport is stressful but solvable. If you lose your passport in India, file an online application for re-issue (choose the appropriate reason) and expect police verification in many cases. If abroad, contact the nearest Indian mission immediately — they can advise and may issue an Emergency Certificate (EC) for return travel, or assist with re-issue.

Steps (India)

1. Login to Passport Seva and start a re-issue application selecting "Lost/Damaged" as reason.
2. Pay fees and book an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) / Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
3. Bring proof of identity and address, and a written police FIR if requested.
4. Undergo document verification and biometrics as requested; police verification may be required.

If Lost Abroad

• Report to local police and obtain a copy of the report.
• Contact the nearest Indian embassy/consulate for guidance; they may issue an Emergency Certificate (EC) or help with a fresh passport application.
• Prepare scanned copies of ID and previous passport (if available) to speed up consular verification.

2) Tatkal (Urgent) Service — Fast Re-issue

The Tatkal service exists for applicants who need a passport urgently. It reduces processing time but requires stricter documentation and higher fees. Use Tatkal only when travel is imminent, and ensure all documents are complete and in the correct format to avoid rejection.

Key Points

• Tatkal applications are processed faster than normal applications but are not guaranteed same-day.
• Documentary requirements are often more stringent; police verification may be done post-issuance in select cases but can also be required before issue.
• Fees under Tatkal are higher than ordinary service—check Passport Seva for current rates.

3) Emergency Certificate (EC) & Travel from Abroad

When an Indian citizen is stranded abroad without a valid passport (lost/stolen/expired) and needs to return to India urgently, the Indian mission may issue an Emergency Certificate (EC) or a provisional travel document to allow one-way travel back to India.

What to Expect

• EC is generally valid for single/limited entry to India only and must be surrendered on arrival where replaced by a new passport.
• Consular offices will ask for identity evidence, police report, travel tickets, and photographs.
• Fees and processing hours vary by mission; contact the local embassy/consulate directly.

4) Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

PCCs are required for long-term visas, immigration, or employment abroad. Indian applicants usually request PCCs through Passport Seva or the concerned regional passport office; those abroad request PCC from Indian missions or local police verification channels.

Documents & Process

• Application through Passport Seva — choose PCC service and provide required ID and address proofs.
• Processing may involve police verification especially if the stay in India has been recent.
• PCC issuance timelines vary—apply well before your visa/interview date.

5) Correction of Particulars: Name, DOB, Spelling & Gender

If your passport contains errors or you legally change your name (marriage, court order), you must apply for re-issue with supporting legal documents (marriage certificate, gazette notification, or court order). Minor spelling corrections may be accepted with evidence.

Steps

1. Gather certified/legal documents proving the change.
2. Apply for re-issue on Passport Seva and attach scanned proofs where the portal asks.
3. If the change is major, expect police verification and longer processing time.

6) Child Passport to Adult Passport (16+ Conversion)

When a passport-holder turns 16, they should apply for a fresh adult passport. This requires new photos, updated identity proofs, and the application for re-issue/renewal through Passport Seva.

• Child passports have shorter validity; adult passports generally have longer validity and different fee tiers.
• Carry original documents and updated address proof when attending the appointment.

7) Surrender Certificate & OCI Issues

If an Indian national acquires foreign citizenship, they must surrender their Indian passport and may need a Surrender Certificate (or obtain OCI card) depending on the purpose. Procedures require application to the regional passport office or the Indian mission abroad and submission of the foreign passport and relevant proofs.

Processing Times — Typical Ranges

Approximate Fees & Payment

Fees change periodically; always verify current charges on the Passport Seva portal. Typical fees include standard and Tatkal charges, plus additional consular/courier charges if applying from abroad.

Common Mistakes & How to Avoid Them

• Incomplete documents at appointment — double-check the checklist on Passport Seva.
• Poor-quality photo uploads — follow the exact pixel & size rules.
• Incorrect application category — select "Lost" vs "Damaged" accurately.
• Not obtaining a local police FIR when required (especially abroad).
• Missing signatures or mismatched data across documents.

Regional Passport Offices (RPOs) & Seva Kendras

Regional Passport Offices (RPOs) and Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) are the official centres under the Ministry of External Affairs for handling passport applications, renewals, and corrections. PSKs are operated by Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) in partnership with the government, while Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) function through India Post offices for smaller towns.

Normal vs Tatkal vs Emergency — Processing Time Comparison

Passport processing time depends on the mode of application. Normal mode involves police verification, while Tatkal and emergency modes are faster but require additional documents.

Common Legal Scenarios Requiring Passport Reissue

• Name Change After Marriage/Divorce: Provide marriage certificate or court decree for update.
• Gender Update: Requires government-issued proof of gender change.
• Address Change: Utility bill, rent agreement, or Aadhaar update as proof.
• Lost Passport Abroad: File police report and apply for an Emergency Certificate (EC).
• Foreign Citizenship: Surrender Indian passport and apply for Surrender Certificate.

Emergency Certificate (EC) vs Passport – What’s the Difference?

Many travellers confuse Emergency Certificates with passports. Here’s a quick comparison to clarify when each is used.

Police Verification – Importance and Tips

Police verification is mandatory for most passport applications. It ensures your residential and identity records are authentic. Delays often occur when addresses are incomplete or applicants are unavailable for verification.

• Keep your address and documents consistent.
• Ensure availability at home during verification.
• Carry original IDs and photocopies for verification.
• Track your verification status on the Passport Seva portal.

Indian Embassies & Missions Offering Emergency Certificates

Indian Embassies and High Commissions abroad issue Emergency Certificates (EC) for stranded citizens. Here are some popular centres:

Digital Services on the Passport Seva Portal

The Passport Seva Portal and its mobile app offer several digital conveniences for applicants:

• Online payment and scheduling appointments.
• Reschedule or cancel applications easily.
• Track status using file number and date of birth.
• Integration with DigiLocker for document upload.
• SMS/email alerts for real-time updates.

After Passport Issuance – Key Steps

• Verify all printed details immediately (name, DOB, address).
• Keep a scanned copy stored securely.
• Update new passport number with travel agents and employers.
• Do not laminate the passport or alter any details manually.

When Passport Applications Get Delayed or Denied

Common reasons for delay or rejection include:

• Pending criminal cases or incomplete police verification.
• Incorrect name/DOB on documents.
• Unpaid application fees or missing signatures.
• Submitting fake or unverifiable documents.

Beware of Fake Agents and Websites

Only use the official government site passportindia.gov.in for any passport service. Many fake websites and agents promise “instant passport delivery” but are scams.

• Never pay cash to unverified agents.
• Always get an official payment receipt.
• Do not share OTP or login credentials with anyone.
• Helpline: 1800-258-1800 (MEA Passport Helpline)

FAQs — Quick Answers