Tatkal passport: Fees, procedure & documents required

Are you planning a foreign trip with friends or family for leisure or an urgent trip and have noticed that your passport has passed the expiry date? Are you worried about not being able to go on the trip? Well, fear not; the Indian passport office allows Indian citizens to secure a passport expeditiously on a tatkal (immediate) basis. So don’t just scrap your plans. Check out the guide for the best way to acquire a Tatkal passport in 2025.

What does Tatkal passport mean?

The Tatkal passport scheme is a unique method for Indians to expedite the lengthy application process and obtain the passport faster. Although the physical passport will be the same regardless of the method chosen for passport application, Tatkal is an excellent option for Indians to expedite the passport application and approval process by paying a little extra.

How does the Tatkal process work?

Similarly to obtaining a passport regularly, the Tatkal passport process follows a similar procedure. Still, it enables applicants to get the earliest available slot for the personal interview and prioritises the police interview. By doing this, you can expect to get the passport within one week of the personal interview. This is especially beneficial for travellers with a set plan but with an expiring or expired passport.

How to get Tatkal passport?

If you have ever applied for a passport online, getting a Tatkal passport is the same. However, please refer to the following steps to quickly and efficiently navigate the purchasing process for the passport. 

1. Register and log in to the Passport Seva Kendra website.
2. Click the “Apply For New Passport” or Re-issue of Passport” option. 
3. Select “Tatkal” as the scheme type.
4. Fill out the form with all your relevant details, upload/verify proof of identification and address, and click submit.
5. After this, you will have to click on “View Saved/Submitted Applications”, select the application, and click “Payment and Schedule Appointment” to pay the application fees and schedule an appointment slot.
6. Print out your application receipt, and carry the appointment SMS, the selected identity proof, and proof of accommodation, as needed, during your in-person interview at the passport office.

Read Also: What are the different types of passports and visa and their differences?

What is the Tatkal passport processing time in India?

As the passport authorities prioritise the approval of Tatkal passports, the Tatkal passport processing time in India is typically as few as three working days, excluding the time taken for personal interview appointments and police verification. This is because the availability of a passport interview appointment depends on the specific Passport Seva Kendra and the free slots available there and can’t be considered for a standardised date. However, depending on the ease of availability of passport appointments and quick passport verification, applicants can get their Tatkal passport expeditiously.

What are Tatkal passport fees in India?

In India, there are various slabs for Tatkal passport processing fees. Although these fees remain the same when a new passport is issued or for renewal or reissuance of a passport, the price depends on the applicant's age and the number of pages sought for the passport, i.e. 36 or 60. 

Refer to the following table for clear information on the Tatkal passport fees in India.

When booking an appointment for a fresh passport or renewal online, you will only need to pay ₹1500 or ₹2000 for 36 or 60 pages, respectively, online. The remaining amount can be paid in person during the appointment at the selected Passport Seva Kendra.

Conclusion 

The Tatkal passport scheme enables Indians to bypass the lengthy and time-consuming passport application, approval, issuance and dispatch process and expedite it for a quick and hassle-free experience. Not only is this convenient, but it is also beneficial when faced with an imminent trip. However, not everyone needs to apply for the Tatkal scheme. If your passport has some time remaining for expiry and you do not have any urgent plans, you can also go through a regular method for acquiring a passport. 

Additionally, if you are applying for a passport due to its loss, consider getting International travel insurance online from a leading provider like Niva Bupa for loss of passport coverage. This travel insurance cover will enable you to recover the cost of losing your passport while travelling on an international trip.

FAQ’s

1. How long does it take to get a Schengen visa from India?

Typically, it takes 15 working days to process a Schengen visa after your application is submitted at the visa center. However, during peak travel seasons or if additional documentation is needed, the process can take up to 30 to 60 days. It’s best to apply at least 4 to 6 weeks in advance of your intended travel date.

2. Is travel insurance mandatory for a Schengen visa from India?

Yes, travel insurance is mandatory. You must provide proof of travel medical insurance with a minimum coverage of €30,000, valid in all Schengen countries. The insurance should cover emergencies, hospitalisation, and repatriation due to medical reasons.

3. Can I visit multiple countries with one Schengen visa?

Absolutely. A Schengen visa allows you to travel freely within the entire Schengen Area, which includes 27 European countries. Just ensure your main destination (or first point of entry) matches the country where you apply for the visa.