How Long Does It Take to Get a Passport Through the Tatkal Scheme?

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 Getting a passport under urgent circumstances in India is made possible through the Tatkal Passport Scheme, a fast-track service offered by the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) under the Ministry of External Affairs. If you are planning an emergency trip, business travel, or any urgent travel requirement, knowing exactly how long it takes to get a passport under the Tatkal scheme is crucial. Below, we offer a comprehensive and in-depth guide to the Tatkal passport process, timelines, documentation, eligibility, and more.

What Is the Tatkal Passport Scheme?

The Tatkal scheme is a premium service designed to expedite passport issuance. Unlike the regular process, which may take 25–30 days or longer depending on police verification, Tatkal passports are issued within 1–3 working days, provided all documentation is in order.

This scheme is particularly useful for people facing unforeseen travel requirements. It covers fresh passport applications as well as reissues, including cases like expiry, loss, damage, or exhaustion of pages.

How Long Does It Really Take to Get a Tatkal Passport?

1. Passport Appointment Scheduling (Day 0)

As soon as the application is submitted online through the Passport Seva Portal, you can schedule an appointment at your nearest PSK or POPSK. Slots under the Tatkal scheme are often limited and fill up quickly, so it is recommended to book as early in the day as possible.

  • Same-day appointment is often available depending on the location and demand.

  • A successful submission and payment guarantee your spot for the biometric process.

2. Visit to PSK and Document Verification (Day 1)

At the scheduled appointment:

  • Your biometric data and photograph are captured.

  • Original documents are verified.

  • The file is cleared on the same day, provided all documentation is proper and complete.

The passport application is then forwarded for printing and dispatch.

3. Passport Issuance and Dispatch (Day 2 or Day 3)

If the police verification is not required prior to issuance (Post-Police Verification scenario):

  • Your passport will be printed and dispatched within 1 working day after successful document verification.

  • In most metro cities, delivery takes place within 2–3 working days via India Post Speed Post.

If pre-police verification is mandated for your category or if your documents raise any concerns:

  • The passport issuance may take up to 5–7 working days, though this is rare in Tatkal applications.

Key Factors Affecting Tatkal Passport Timelines

Type of Application (Fresh vs. Reissue)

  • Fresh Passports: May require police verification, though Tatkal processing ensures issuance before the verification is complete.

  • Reissues (due to expiry, damage, or lost passport): Typically processed faster if the previous passport is not disputed and all previous records are clean.

Documentation Completeness

Incomplete or incorrect documents can delay the process. The Tatkal process depends heavily on correct supporting documents and the correct Annexure (generally Annexure F or I) based on the case.

Jurisdiction and Regional PSK Efficiency

  • Metro PSKs (like in Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, and Kolkata) tend to process Tatkal applications faster due to higher resource availability and technology infrastructure.

  • Smaller cities or towns may have limited slots and slightly slower dispatch rates.

Tatkal Passport Document Checklist

To ensure speedy processing, having the correct documents is essential. Here’s a list of generally required documents under the Tatkal scheme:

  • Proof of Address (Aadhaar Card, Utility Bill, Rent Agreement, etc.)

  • Proof of Date of Birth (Birth Certificate, PAN Card, etc.)

  • Old Passport (in case of reissue)

  • Annexure F (Verification Certificate from a Gazetted Officer)

  • Annexure I (Self-declaration for Tatkal passport)

  • Two Recent Passport Size Photographs

  • Voter ID / PAN / Driving License as additional ID proof

Note: The requirement for Annexure F may be waived in some cases if the applicant provides 3 government-issued IDs.

Tatkal Passport Fee Structure

As of the latest update, the Tatkal fees for a 36-page passport booklet (valid for 10 years) are:

  • ₹3,500 for fresh application or reissue

  • This includes the ₹1,500 Tatkal premium fee in addition to the standard ₹2,000 application charge.

Fees can be paid via the Passport Seva Portal using credit/debit card, net banking, or SBI challan.

Police Verification in Tatkal Passports

There are two types of verification routes:

  • Post Police Verification (PPV): Passport is issued first; police verification happens later. This is the most common and fastest method under Tatkal.

  • Pre Police Verification (PPV): Verification happens before issuing the passport. This may apply if you have adverse reports or special circumstances.

Can You Track Your Tatkal Passport Status?

Yes. After your PSK visit, you can track the passport application status online through the Passport Seva Portal's Track Application Status page.

You’ll need to enter:

  • File Number (generated during your appointment)

  • Date of Birth

Real-time updates will show you the movement of your file—from application to printing to dispatch.

What if You Have an Emergency and Need Faster Service?

While the Tatkal service is the fastest officially available channel for passport issuance, some agencies can assist with streamlined documentation, faster appointment booking, and professional handling to avoid delays due to document issues.

If your situation involves medical emergencies, job abroad, education, or foreign travel within 72 hours, ensure you carry valid proof supporting urgency.

Tips to Get Your Tatkal Passport Faster

  • Book early in the day for better appointment availability.

  • Upload documents in advance on the portal to avoid delays.

  • Choose a major city PSK for higher processing speed.

  • Keep originals and photocopies ready and organized.

  • Consult a passport expert or agency for document verification and application support.

Conclusion

Getting a passport under the Tatkal scheme in India typically takes 1 to 3 working days, provided all documents are in order and there are no red flags. It is the ideal solution for urgent passport needs, but attention to detail and preparation are key to ensuring a smooth process. By understanding the documentation, timelines, and process clearly, you can avoid unnecessary delays and receive your passport well within time.

We at smotpro.in provide all kinds of passport and visa services, including Tatkal application support, documentation assistance, and fast, dedicated customer service to make your passport process seamless.

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