This article is published by The Legal Warning India and written by Advocate Uday Singh.

Passport Verification Process in India – Step-by-Step Guide for General & Tatkal Passport

Many applicants feel confused and anxious about passport police verification.
Common concerns include:

When will police verification happen?
Will police visit home or call to police station?
What documents are required?
Is verification different for Tatkal passport?

Passport verification is a standard legal process, and understanding it properly helps avoid unnecessary delay or stress.

This article explains the complete passport verification procedure in India for both General and Tatkal passports.

Information is based on publicly available passport rules and police verification practices.

What Is Passport Police Verification?

Passport police verification is conducted to confirm:

Applicant’s identity
Residential address
Criminal record (if any)

It is carried out by the local police station having jurisdiction over the applicant’s address.

Types of Passport Verification in India

Pre-Police Verification
Post-Police Verification
No Police Verification (limited cases)

The type depends on the passport category and applicant profile.

General Passport – Step-by-Step Police Verification Process

Step 1: Passport Application Submission

Applicant submits passport application online and completes appointment at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).

Step 2: File Sent to Local Police Station

After PSK verification, the application is forwarded electronically to the local police station.

Step 3: Police Verification Initiation

Police may:

Visit applicant’s residence, or
Call applicant to police station

Step 4: Document Verification

Police generally check:

Aadhaar / Voter ID / ID proof
Address proof
Application form details

Step 5: Neighbour Verification (In Some Cases)

Police may confirm residence details from neighbours.

Step 6: Police Report Submission

After verification, police submit report online to passport office.

Step 7: Passport Issuance

If report is clear, passport is printed and dispatched.

Tatkal Passport – Verification Process Explained

Tatkal passport follows a different approach:

Passport is usually issued first
Police verification happens after issuance

Tatkal Police Verification Steps

Passport issued quickly after PSK appointment
Police verification conducted post-issuance
Same document and address checks apply

If adverse report is submitted later, passport can be cancelled.

What Documents Are Required During Police Verification?

Passport application receipt
Aadhaar card / Voter ID
Address proof
Old passport (if reissue)

Keep original documents ready.

Common Reasons for Delay or Adverse Report

Incorrect address details
Mismatch in documents
Applicant not available during visit
Pending criminal case or FIR

Accuracy and cooperation are important.

Is Police Verification Mandatory for Everyone?

No. In limited cases (government servants, renewals with clear record), police verification may be waived.

What If Police Verification Is Delayed or Problematic?

If police verification is delayed or unfair:

Applicant can follow up with local police station
Written representation may be submitted
Legal guidance may be required in complex cases

Need Guidance Regarding Passport Verification?

If you are facing issues during passport police verification, understanding the correct procedure helps in taking informed steps.

Need legal guidance? You may choose to connect for general consultation and information.

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Disclaimer: This article is for general legal information and awareness purposes only. It does not constitute legal advice or solicitation. Communication is purely informational, in compliance with Bar Council of India Rule 36.