Are you planning to travel abroad but confused about how to get a passport? Whether you’re applying for the first time or renewing an expired one, getting a passport can be a complicated process. But don’t worry; we’re here to help you figure out which option is best for you — a fresh passport or reissue of passport.

Fresh Passport: Everything You Need to Know

A fresh passport is issued to an individual who has never applied for a passport before or whose previous passport has expired or lost. Here are the key takeaways for getting a fresh passport:

• New passport application form: You need to fill out a fresh passport application form that is available online or offline. You must provide all the necessary details, including your personal information, address, family details, and occupation.
• Document verification: Along with the application form, you must submit a copy of your identity and address proofs such as Aadhaar card, voter ID, ration card, etc., along with two passport size photographs.
• Pay the fee: Once you have submitted the application form and documents, you must pay the passport application fee online or offline at designated banks. The fees for fresh passport application vary depending on the type of passport and age of the applicant.
• Police verification: Once your application and documents are submitted, your application goes through the police verification process to ensure that the information provided is correct.

Reissue of Passport: Everything You Need to Know

A passport can be reissued if it has expired, is about to expire or if you’ve lost the passport. Here are the key takeaways for getting a reissue of passport:

• Reissue application form: You need to fill out a passport reissue application form that is available online or offline. You must provide all the necessary details, including your personal information, address, family details, and occupation.
• Document verification: Along with the application form, you must submit a copy of your identity proof such as Aadhaar card, voter ID, ration card, along with two passport size photographs.
• Pay the fee: Once you have submitted the application form and documents, you must pay the passport application fee online or offline at designated banks. The fees for passport reissue applications differ depending on the type of passport and age of the applicant.
• No police verification: Unlike a fresh passport application, there’s no need to go through the police verification process for passport reissue applications.

Which Option Should You Choose?

The choice between a fresh passport and a passport reissue depends on whether you already have a passport or not. If you’ve never had a passport before, you’ll need to apply for a fresh passport. On the other hand, if you’ve lost your passport or it has expired, you can apply for a passport reissue.

Conclusion

Obtaining a passport is an essential step for traveling abroad. Whether you opt for a fresh passport or reissue of passport depends on your current situation. Keep in mind the key takeaways mentioned above to ensure a smooth process.

FAQs

Q. What is the validity of a passport?

A. The validity of an Indian passport for individuals above 18 years of age is 10 years, while for individuals below 18 years, the validity is 5 years.

Q. Can I get a passport without a birth certificate?

A. Yes, you can get a passport without a birth certificate. However, you’ll need to provide alternative documents such as a school leaving certificate, PAN card, or an affidavit.

Q. How long does it take to get a passport?

A. It takes approximately 30-45 days to get your passport after submitting the application form and documents. However, it may take longer if there are any issues or discrepancies that require further verification.