Unexpected events like an emergency in the family, sudden business travel abroad, or a personal medical crisis might call upon you to travel abroad under urgent circumstances. In such cases, having a passport ready becomes crucial. India’s Tatkal passport service is designed to help you obtain your passport quickly, bypassing the standard, longer processing time.
What is a Tatkal passport?
The Tatkal Passport is a fast-track facility for Indian citizens who require their passports urgently. “Tatkal” translates to “immediate” or “urgent”. While a passport takes several months for processing in normal cases, in Tatkal applications, a passport is delivered in 1-3 working days once all papers are in place. An extra cost is incurred for the fast-track processing of a passport.
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What is the difference between a normal passport and a Tatkal passport?
The only major difference between the two lies in the time it takes for processing. A normal passport takes several weeks or even months to be ready, while the Tatkal passport can be obtained much earlier to meet urgent travel needs.
Steps to apply for a Tatkal passport
Register on the Passport Seva Website
Start by creating an account on the official Passport Seva portal. Provide your basic details, including name, email, and mobile number. Once registered, you’ll receive login credentials to begin your application.
Complete the application form
Log in to your account and fill out the application form. Select the Tatkal option and provide accurate personal, contact, and emergency details. You can also save your application and pick up where you left off, later if needed.
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Upload required documents
Scan and upload documents such as proof of identity, address, and date of birth. For Tatkal applications, include proof of urgency like travel tickets or an official letter explaining the emergency.
Make the payment
Pay the Tatkal passport fee online through net banking, debit/credit card, or SBI Challan. Save the payment receipt, which you’ll need during your appointment.
Schedule and attend the appointment
Book a slot at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Passport Office. Carry all original documents and the printed application form for verification. Officials will take your biometric data and process your application.
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Eligibility and processing time
Who is eligible for a Tatkal passport?
Any Indian citizen, under unforeseen urgent emergencies arising due to a medical emergency, the death of any family member abroad or an urgent business trip, can apply for a Tatkal passport.
What is the processing time for a Tatkal passport?
After documentation has been provided and police verification is also out of the way, a Tatkal passport takes only 1-3 working days for processing, making it ideal for situations of urgency when one might need to travel abroad at short notice for some emergency.
