Can I Attend Passport Appointment Without Originals?

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When applying for a passport in India, one of the most common questions applicants have is whether they can attend the passport appointment without carrying original documents. The short answer is No—you cannot complete the process without originals. The Passport Seva Kendra (PSK), Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK), or Regional Passport Office (RPO) requires you to present original documents for verification. Photocopies or scanned versions alone are not sufficient.

Why Are Original Documents Required?

The passport is an official travel and identity document, and the authorities must ensure that all details provided by the applicant are genuine and verified. Originals are needed for:

  • Authentication of Identity – Ensures the applicant is who they claim to be.

  • Proof of Address – Confirms your current residential details.

  • Proof of Date of Birth – Establishes age and eligibility.

  • Legal Verification – Prevents fraud and misuse of passports.

Without original documents, the verification officer cannot authenticate your application, and your request will be placed on hold or rejected.

Documents That Must Be Carried in Original

You need to bring both originals and self-attested photocopies of the following (as applicable):

  1. Proof of Identity – Aadhaar card, Voter ID, PAN card, Driving License, etc.

  2. Proof of Address – Utility bill, rent agreement, bank statement, etc.

  3. Proof of Date of Birth – Birth certificate, school leaving certificate, or matriculation certificate.

  4. Existing Passport – If applying for renewal or reissue.

  5. Additional Documents – Marriage certificate, spouse’s passport, legal documents (if applicable).

What Happens If You Go Without Originals?

  • Your application will not be processed at the appointment.

  • You will likely be asked to reschedule with proper documents.

  • In some cases, your application may be canceled, and you may need to reapply.

This leads to delays and extra costs, which can be avoided by preparing all required documents in advance.

Exceptions or Special Cases

In very rare circumstances, if you have lost an original document, the passport office may allow you to provide:

  • FIR / Police complaint copy (in case of lost documents).

  • Gazette notification (for name or DOB changes).

  • Court orders / affidavits (in specific cases).

However, these are exceptions. In almost all cases, originals are mandatory.

Tips Before Attending Passport Appointment

  • Always carry both originals and photocopies of every document required.

  • Arrange documents in order as per the checklist provided during application.

  • Check the official Passport Seva website for the latest list of acceptable proofs.

  • Keep your Application Reference Number (ARN) and appointment confirmation letter handy.

  • If in doubt, carry extra supporting documents to avoid rejection.

Final Thoughts

You cannot attend a passport appointment without originals. They are mandatory for document verification and processing of your passport application. Always prepare a complete file with originals and photocopies to ensure a smooth appointment experience.

At smotpro.in, we provide passport and visa services, helping applicants with fast, dedicated, 24x7 support from experienced professionals—guiding you from document preparation to final passport delivery.

Our office- https://maps.app.goo.gl/Pv8e1d1ahEwcFMAk8

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