Indian Tatkaal Passport Guidelines

Are you an Indian citizen and in need of a passport ASAP? If you can't afford to wait through the standard processing times, the Tatkaal scheme could be your perfect solution. It allows you to get your passport fast, skipping all the usual delays and long procedures.

Read on to find out how to get a Tatkaal passport and how to make the Tatkaal passport procedure easy and smooth.

Table of contents

• The Difference Between Tatkaal and Normal Passport
• Who Can Apply for a Tatkaal Passport?
• Tatkaal Passport Application Process
• Document Required for Tatkaal Passport Application
• Indian Passport Photo Specification
• Get an Indian Passport Photo Online!
• Indian Passport Photo App
• Tatkaal Passport Fees
• How Long Does it Take to Issue a Tatkaal Passport?
• How to Convert Tatkaal Passport to Normal Passport

The Difference Between Tatkaal and Normal Passport

So, what does the Tatkaal passport mean? A Tatkaal passport is issued under the Tatkal scheme, a fast-track passport application process in India. This system gets your passport processed and issued way faster than the regular process. While it usually takes about 30 to 45 days for a regular passport, a Tatkaal passport can be ready in 1 to 3 working days with post-process police verification, so it's great for when you need to travel quickly.

For better understanding, let’s compare the normal passport vs the Tatkal passport. We have already mentioned the difference in processing time. Next, the cost. A Tatkaal passport is more expensive than a regular passport issuance. While the standard passport fee is between Rs. 1500 (US $18) and Rs. 2000 (US $24), the Tatkaal passport price is between Rs. 3,000 (US $36) and Rs. 4,000 (US $48), depending on your age and how many pages the passport has. The more exact costs will be covered further.

When it comes to documents, both types of passports require the same basic set. However, for a Tatkaal passport, you also need to show extra proof that you need the passport urgently, like proof of urgent travel plans.

Both passports are available to eligible Indian citizens. The eligibility rules are mostly the same for both, but there are some exceptions. For example, if you've recently changed your name or have issues with your police record, you may not be eligible for a Tatkaal passport.

Police checks are done differently for each passport type. For a standard passport, the police check is usually done after the passport is issued. The Tatkaal passport police verification can happen either before or after you get the passport, based on your case.

Lastly, the Tatkaal passport validity period is the same as that of a regular passport. Adults get a passport valid for 10 years, and minors get one valid for 5 or 10 years.

Who Can Apply for a Tatkaal Passport?

Not everyone is eligible for a Tatkaal passport. The Ministry of External Affairs has set specific guidelines on who can apply. To qualify, you must fall into one of the following categories:

• Applicants must be of Indian descent.
• Citizens who obtained their citizenship through registration.
• Individuals who were deported back to India from other countries.
• Residents of Jammu and Kashmir.
• Residents of Nagaland.
• Minor children who have a single parent.
• Adopted children, regardless of whether the adopting parents are Indian or foreign.
• Minors living in Nagaland.
• Individuals who have changed sex or appearance.
• Individuals who need changes in certain particulars, such as their signature on their passport.

Tatkaal Passport Application Process

If you are eligible for a Tatkaal passport, follow these steps to apply:

1. Go to the official Passport Seva website and log in with your user ID and password.
2. Choose the appropriate option based on your situation – whether you need a new passport (Fresh) or a renewal (Reissue).
3. Select the Tatkaal scheme.
4. Download the application form and fill it out carefully and accurately.
5. Submit the completed form online.
6. Make the necessary payments through the online payment portal.
7. Print the receipt that confirms your online payment.
8. Schedule a Tatkaal passport appointment at the nearest Passport Service Kendra.

After submitting your application, you can visit the Passport Seva portal to check the status of your passport application. You'll also receive SMS alerts to keep you updated on the application status.

Document Required for Tatkaal Passport Application

To get a Tatkaal passport, along with proofs of address, birth, and non-ECR status (if applicable) you must submit the following documents, based on your age:

For applicants over 18 years old – submit any three documents from the list below.
For applicants under 18 years old – submit any two documents from serial numbers 1 to 6 in the list below.

List of Acceptable Documents:

1. Aadhaar Card: Acceptable forms include a PVC Aadhaar Card, a Complete Original Aadhaar Letter, or e-Aadhaar Card with a verified digital signature issued by UIDAI. Note: Small cut-out Aadhaar cards or smart cards printed by non-UIDAI entities will not be accepted.
2. Permanent Account Number (PAN) Card
3. Student Photo Identity Cards: Issued by recognized educational institutions.
4. Birth Certificates: Issued under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969.
5. Ration Card: Ensure it is the latest or updated version.
6. Previous Passport: If you are applying for a re-issue.
7. Elector’s Photo Identity Card (EPIC)
8. Driving License: Must be valid and within the jurisdiction of the applicant's state.
9. Bank Passbook: This can be a Kisan Passbook or Post Office Passbook, with the applicant’s photo attested and the latest transactions updated.
10. Scheduled Caste/Tribe or Other Backward Class Certificate
11. Arms License: Issued under the Arms Act, 1959.
12. Pension Documents: This can include ex-servicemen’s pension book, pension payment order, widow or dependent certificates, and old age pension order.
13. Service Photo Identity Card: Issued by State/Central Government, Public Sector Undertakings, local bodies, or Public Limited Companies.
14. Two passport-sized pictures.

Also, you will need to download and complete the Undertaking for Tatkaal Scheme form. This form is available in both Hindi and English. Sign the completed form and bring it with you to the Passport Office when you go for your appointment.

Indian Passport Photo Specification

Here are the essential photo requirements for an Indian passport picture:

• Size Requirements:
  • Within India: The photo size must be 35×45 mm. This is the official standard set by Seva, the governmental passport service.
  • Outside India: The photo size may vary by country. For example, in the U.S., the required photo size is usually 2×2 inches (51×51 mm). The distance from the bottom of the photo to the eye line should be 1.18 inches. The same size (2×2 inches) is required when applying through VFS Global.
• Digital Photo Specifications:
  • The file type must be JPEG.
  • The file size should be between 10 and 300 KB.
  • Minimum dimensions: 350 pixels by 350 pixels.
  • Maximum dimensions: 1000 pixels by 1000 pixels.
• The background must be white, without shadows or objects.
• The photo must be in colour, not black and white.
• Your face should be in the centre of the photo, looking straight ahead.
• Keep a neutral facial expression. No shadows should fall on your face.
• The photo must be high-quality, without shadows, broken pixels, or blurs.
• Ideal specifications include a 24-bit colour depth with a resolution between 200 and 300 DPI.
• Regular headwear like caps or hats is not allowed. If you wear a headdress for religious reasons (such as a dastar or hijab), you can keep it on, but your facial features must be visible.
• Eyeglasses are allowed, but your eyes must be clearly visible without any glare or obstructions from the frames. Dark glasses are not acceptable.
• The requirements for a baby passport photo are the same as those for adults, except if the child is under 1 year old, they can have their eyes closed.

Here is an example of required photo:

Get an Indian Passport Photo Online!

Skip the hassle and ensure your Indian Passport photo meets exact specifications by using Visafoto.com, a top-notch photo editing service with an impressive 99.7% success rate.

Here's how it works: Take a photo against a plain white background using your phone or digital camera. Upload your photo to Visafoto.com. Our service will adjust the image size, format, background color, and face positioning to meet Indian passport standards.

You'll also receive both a digital copy for online submissions and a print-ready version. If you're not satisfied with the result, we offer a full refund.

Let’s look at some examples. First, take a selfie under daylight:

And you will get photos for printing and online submission:

Indian Passport Photo App

Check out the 7ID passport photo app, created by Visafoto. This user-friendly app simplifies creating passport, ID, and visa photos with your smartphone. It works with both iPhone and Android devices, making it accessible to everyone.

Upload your photo to 7ID and select the document type and country. The app automatically adjusts your photo to meet official requirements, ensuring proper size, format, background colour, and alignment of your face and eyes. You'll get a digital file and a print template that fits standard sizes like 4×6, A4, A5, or B5.

To get the best possible photos, use the app's Expert Tool, which employs advanced algorithms to enhance your picture regardless of the background. And if you have any questions, our technical support team is available 24/7 to assist you.

Tatkaal Passport Fees

Applying for a Tatkaal passport costs more than a regular passport, but you'll get your passport much faster, typically within 1 to 3 days. Here are the Tatkaal passport charges for different age groups and Tatkaal passport expiry dates:

Tatkaal passport for minors under 15 years will cost:
36 pages, valid for 10 years: Rs. 3,000 (approx. US $36)

For youth between 15 and 18 years:
36 pages, valid for 5 years: Rs. 3,000 (approx. US $36)
36 pages, valid for 10 years: Rs. 3,500 (approx. US $42)
60 pages, valid for 10 years: Rs. 4,000 (approx. US $48)

For adults 18 years and older:
36 pages, valid for 10 years: Rs. 3,500 (approx. US $42)
60 pages, valid for 10 years: Rs. 4,000 (approx. US $48)

To find the exact passport fees in India, use the Fee Calculator available on the Online Passport Seva Platform. This tool helps you calculate the fees for both Normal and Tatkaal passport applications.

How Long Does it Take to Issue a Tatkaal Passport?

A Tatkaal passport is issued within 1 to 3 working days. This is much faster compared to the Normal passport process, which can take 30 to 45 days.

How to Convert Tatkaal Passport to Normal Passport

If you have applied for a Tatkaal passport but now want to switch to a Normal passport, follow these steps:

1. Go to the PSK on your scheduled appointment day. Inform the attendant at the token centre that you wish to change your application from Tatkaal to Normal.
2. Submit a Written Application: The attendant will ask you to write and submit a formal application to change your application type from Tatkaal to Normal.
3. After submitting your written request, you will need to apply for a passport again under the Normal category.
4. Follow the instructions to fill out the new form and update your information accordingly.
5. You do not need to cancel your Tatkaal application, but be aware that the fees you paid for the Tatkaal application will not be refunded.
6. Depending on your situation, you might need to provide more documents. For example, if you are under 18, you will need to submit two documents from the List of Acceptable Documents.
7. Police verification will occur after you receive the passport issued under the Normal scheme.
8. The fees for a Normal passport are lower than those for a Tatkaal passport. You can calculate the exact fees using the Fee Calculator on the Passport Seva website.

Get professional Indian passport photos with Visafoto.com or 7ID and make your Indian passport application process much easier!