How to Use VFS Global Passport Tracking for Indian Applicants?

For Indian nationals living abroad, applying for or renewing a passport can seem daunting, especially when dealing with overseas application centres. Fortunately, VFS Global, the trusted outsourcing and technology services partner for governments worldwide, simplifies much of the process, including passport tracking.

This blog provides a clear and detailed explanation of how to use VFS Global passport tracking services effectively, so you can stay updated on the status of your application. Whether you’re renewing your passport in the UK, USA, Canada, or elsewhere, this guide will help you navigate VFS tracking passport tools with ease.

What is VFS Global and Why Does It Handle Indian Passports Abroad?

VFS Global is an official partner of the Government of India for handling Indian passport and visa services across multiple countries. It acts as an intermediary between the applicant and the Indian Mission/Consulate, helping manage:

• Passport renewals

• OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) services

• Police clearance certificates

• Visa applications

Once you’ve submitted your application through VFS, you can track your passport using the VFS Global passport tracking system.

What is VFS Global Passport Tracking?

VFS passport tracking is an online tool that allows Indian passport applicants to check the status of their application after it has been submitted at a VFS centre abroad.

It gives real-time updates at key stages, such as:

• Application received

• Under processing at the consulate

• Passport printed and dispatched

• Ready for collection or delivery

Using the VFS tracking passport system ensures transparency and helps you plan your travel or document requirements accordingly.

When Should You Use VFS Passport Tracking?

Use the tracking tool after:

• Submitting a passport application (fresh or renewal) at a VFS centre abroad

• Receiving your tracking reference number from VFS

• Waiting for confirmation of dispatch or delivery of your new passport

What You Need Before Tracking Your Passport?

To use the VFS tracking passport feature, you’ll typically need:

• Your Reference Number (usually starts with ‘INT’ or has a format like GWFxxxxxx)

• Your Date of Birth

• Optionally, your passport number

This information is provided on your receipt or email confirmation after submission.

How to Use VFS Passport Tracking?

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to use VFS passport tracking for Indian passport applications abroad.

Go to the VFS Tracking Portal

Visit the official VFS Global tracking page.

Select the Correct Country and Mission

• Choose the country from which you submitted the application (e.g., United Kingdom, USA, Australia)

• Select ‘India’ as the mission or service provider

• You’ll be redirected to your local VFS passport service page

Enter Tracking Details

On the tracking page:

• Enter your Application Reference Number (found on your receipt)

• Input your Date of Birth in DD/MM/YYYY format

• Click on the ‘Submit’ or ‘Track’ button

View Status Updates

The system will display the latest status, such as:

• Application Received at VFS

• In Process at the Indian Embassy/Consulate

• Passport Printed

• Passport Dispatched or Ready for Collection

• Delivered

You can also receive status updates via SMS or email if you opted for this service during submission.

VFS SMS & Email Alerts

VFS often offers premium services that include real-time SMS/email notifications. These alerts are helpful for applicants who want to stay informed without manually checking the status online.

You’ll get automatic updates for:

• Submission confirmation

• Forwarding to the embassy

• Decision made

• Dispatch and delivery details

These are optional and may involve additional charges, depending on the VFS centre.

Tracking Home Delivery of Passport

If you opted for courier delivery of your passport (e.g., via DHL, FedEx, or Royal Mail), VFS will provide a tracking number after dispatch.

You can track the delivery directly on the courier’s official website using that number. This is separate from the VFS tracking passport system but is linked after the VFS process is complete.

Troubleshooting Common Tracking Issues

Let us take a quick look at common tracking issues faced:

Tracking Reference Not Found?

• Double-check the format of your reference number

• Ensure your date of birth is entered correctly

• Wait at least 24–48 hours after submission for the system to update

Tracking Page Not Loading?

• Try accessing from a different browser or device

• Clear your cache and cookies

• Use a stable internet connection

Still No Update After Several Days?

• Contact the VFS helpdesk in your country

• Alternatively, contact the Indian embassy or consulate handling your application

The VFS tracking system is secure and does not require any sensitive personal information beyond what was already submitted. Always ensure you’re using the official VFS website and avoid third-party tracking tools.

How Long Does It Take to Receive an Indian Passport Abroad?

Processing times vary depending on:

• Type of application (Normal vs Tatkaal)

• Country and city of submission

• Consulate workload

• Whether police verification is required

On average:

• Normal processing: 3–6 weeks

• Tatkaal processing: 1–2 weeks (faster, but available only in select countries)

Use VFS Global passport tracking to monitor these stages in real time.

Also Read : Visa Application Process - From Status Checks to Stamping and Fees

Wrapping Up

Using the VFS Global passport tracking system is a smart way to stay informed about your Indian passport application submitted abroad. With just your reference number and date of birth, you can easily check your status online, receive alerts, and plan your next steps without stress.

Whether you're applying from the UK, USA, UAE, or elsewhere, VFS tracking passport tools bring transparency and peace of mind to the process.

Before you finalise your travel plans and pack your bags, don’t overlook one of the most important aspects of international travel, travel insurance. While having your passport is essential, being protected against unexpected situations abroad is just as critical. Medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, or even misplaced passports can cause significant stress and financial strain while travelling.

This is where a comprehensive travel insurance plan becomes invaluable. It offers coverage for emergency medical treatment, protects against delays or cancellations, and provides reimbursement for lost personal belongings. For Indian travellers heading overseas, especially those applying for or renewing passports through VFS Global, having insurance in place ensures you’re safeguarded throughout your journey.

Niva Bupa offers international travel insurance plans tailored for individuals, students, and families. With 24/7 customer assistance and access to a wide global network of healthcare providers, Niva Bupa’s travel insurance gives you the confidence to travel knowing you're protected, no matter where life takes you.

FAQs

1. How do I track my passport using VFS Global?

   Go to the official VFS tracking page, select your country, and enter your application reference number and date of birth.

2. How long does VFS take to process an Indian passport?

   Normal applications may take 3–6 weeks; Tatkaal applications are usually quicker (1–2 weeks), depending on your location and consulate.

3. I can’t see any update on the tracking page. What should I do?

   Wait 24–48 hours after submission. If still no update, contact the VFS support team or the Indian mission.

4. Will I get notified when my passport is dispatched?

   Yes, if you opt for SMS/email updates or check the tracking system regularly. You’ll also receive courier tracking if home delivery is selected.

5. Is the VFS tracking system the same in all countries?

   The interface and process may vary slightly by country, but all VFS passport services follow similar tracking procedures for Indian applicants.