Passport Frequently Asked Questions

No, it is not allowed for someone in your place to submit your passport application. The candidates must be present physically at the Passport Seva Kendra with his/her original and photocopied documents during application submission.

No, during the passport renewal process, you do not need to submit original documents. You only have to submit self-attested copies of them. With this, generally, you need to submit your Old passport as well.

The file number is mentioned on the application receipt of the passport and on the copy of the application that you submitted online. Apart from this, you can also check the number on the last page, the last line of your passport.

For an Indian passport, you require two recent passport-size photos with a 2-inch x 2-inch size, white background, and full face, front view.

The Indian passport ranked at 83rd position in the world as per the 2025 Henley Passport Index. It means that the passport holders without visa can travel to 58 countries.

A file number in an Indian passport is a 12-digit alphanumeric code used to track the passport application and monitor the police verification status. It is also known as Passport Reference File Number (PRFN). With this, it is different for each individual.

You should renew your Indian passport when it has run out of pages, you need changes in your particulars, the validity period is soon to expire or you lost or damaged the passport.

To change your address in your Indian passport visit the online site of Passport Seva and log in or create an account. After that apply for a reissue of your passport and select the “address change” option. Then, fill out the application form with the correct details, choose your appointment date, and make the payment. With this, on the appointment day visit the Passport offices with the necessary documents.

Yes, along with all the mentioned documents and their copies, it is vital to carry your old passport during the renewal process.

The passport renewal process involves acquiring a new passport with a new number when the current passport is near its expiry date or needs to be extended. On the other hand, passport reissue means the process of obtaining a new passport with the same number as the current one. This is done when there are changes in personal details or when the passport is either lost, stolen, or damaged.

First, you have to state the reason why you want to reissue your passport. Also booked a special appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra. Reach the passport office on time and do not forget to carry the mentioned papers. For example, in case it gets stolen along with an affidavit stating the reason along with a photocopy of FIR and mentioned documents to the passport office.

Not earlier than 1 year of expiry date you can apply for your Indian passport renewal. In addition, it is best to begin the renewal process between 9-12 months before its expiry, especially if you have plans to travel overseas.

To get a clearance in the UK, you are generally required to be a resident of the UK for a minimum of five years and will be required to complete all the steps of the vetting process which involves: Baseline Personnel Security Standards, Company/Departmental Records Check and Security Questionnaire.

To get an enforcement certificate, also popular as the ‘Certificated Enforcement Agent’ certificate, on a “Taking Control of Good” you need to complete a training course at level 2 qualification, pass the exam, and with the necessary documents apply to the County court. It includes good character proof and demonstrates your understanding of enforcement laws to a judge who decides whether you are the right person to get the certificate or not. This process generally includes providing a security bond and references.

The Police Certificate will show the personal details, photograph, applicable cautions, convictions, reprimands, and with the ACRO step-down model the warnings in line with the applicant.

Traveling overseas with a criminal record can be difficult but not an impossible thing. Every country has its specific rules about who can enter and these can depend on the crime type and conviction time.

Yes, a passport-sized photograph is required when applying for a PCC (Police Clearance Certificate). You need to provide a photo with specific dimensions and proper background color as specified by the issuing authority. Generally, a recent colored photo with a plain white background is required.

A US police clearance certificate usually takes 16-18 weeks to process and is also known as an FBI background check. However, the processing time may vary depending on the complexity of your case. If you opt for expedited service then the FBI will take 10 business days to process your application.

To apply for a PCC online, you need to visit the passport seva website of your country’s embassy or consulate> register an account> fill out the application form with accurate details> upload the required documents> handle the fee> schedule an appointment to submit your application (if needed).

Indian nationals staying abroad can get a Police Clearance Certificate from the Indian Diplomatic Mission or Post in their area. They can also apply for a PCC online and then submit the application at the relevant center in person.