If you find yourself in urgent need of travelling abroad but do not yet have a passport, applying for a Tatkal passport is the best way to get one quickly. The Tatkal passport charges are slightly higher than a regular passport, but the process ensures that you can get your passport within a few days instead of waiting weeks. This article provides all the essential information about the costs, documents required, and how to apply for a Tatkal passport, so you can get your travel plans back on track.
What is a Tatkal passport?
A Tatkal passport is a fast-track service offered by the Indian government for those who need their passports quickly due to urgent travel needs. Whether it’s for business, medical emergencies, or other important reasons, this service ensures that your passport application is processed swiftly, and you can receive your passport in as little as 3 to 4 days. In comparison, a regular passport application may take anywhere from 30 to 40 days to process.
The key difference between the two options is the Tatkal passport charges, which are higher due to the expedited service.
Tatkal passport charges and how they compare to regular fees
The fees for a regular passport start at Rs 1,500 for a basic 36-page booklet. However, for those opting for the Tatkal service, there is an additional cost of Rs 500, bringing the total to Rs 2,000 for the same 36-page booklet. If you need a larger 60-page booklet, the fees are slightly higher.
The breakdown of Tatkal passport charges is as follows:
- 36-page passport booklet under Tatkal scheme: Rs 2,000
- 60-page passport booklet under Tatkal scheme: Rs 3,500
While these fees may seem higher than the regular charges, the faster processing time often justifies the extra cost for many applicants who need a passport immediately.
How to apply for a Tatkal passport
Applying for a Tatkal passport is a straightforward process. You can apply either online or offline, but the online method is generally faster and more convenient. Here is a step-by-step guide to applying for a Tatkal passport:
- Visit the official Passport Seva website: Go to the official Indian government portal at www.passportindia.gov.in to start your application.
- Register and fill out the application form: If you don’t have an account, create one, then fill in the required details in the application form, including your personal information and travel purpose.
- Select the Tatkal option: While filling in the application form, select the Tatkal option to expedite the process.
- Submit your documents: You will need to provide identification documents such as your Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID, birth certificate, and recent photographs. Sometimes, police verification may be skipped under the Tatkal scheme, but you should still ensure that all your documents are in order.
- Pay the Tatkal passport charges: Pay the required fees online through the secure payment portal. Make sure to keep a copy of the payment receipt.
- Schedule an appointment: Book an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) for document submission and biometrics.
- Visit the PSK: Attend your scheduled appointment and submit your documents. The process is usually quick under the Tatkal scheme, and your application will be processed immediately.
Documents required for a Tatkal passport
To apply for a Tatkal passport, you will need the following documents:
- Proof of identity (Aadhaar card, PAN card, voter ID, etc.)
- Proof of address
- Date of birth certificate
- Passport-size photographs
- Proof of urgency (such as a letter from your employer or medical records, if applicable)
These documents are crucial to ensuring that your application is processed without delays. Under the Tatkal scheme, the process is faster, but incomplete documentation can still cause delays.
How long does it take to get a Tatkal passport?
One of the main advantages of opting for a Tatkal passport is the quick turnaround time. Once you have completed your application and submitted your documents, the passport is usually issued within 3 to 4 working days. This is much faster than the regular passport application, which can take 30 to 40 days.
In some cases, especially where police verification is not required, you may receive your Tatkal passport even sooner.
Diplomatic passport vs. Tatkal passport
While the Tatkal passport is for individuals who need expedited service, a diplomatic passport is reserved for government officials and diplomats who represent India in international affairs. The diplomatic passport allows these individuals certain privileges and immunities during their travels abroad. Unlike the Tatkal passport, which can be obtained by any Indian citizen in need of fast-tracked services, a diplomatic passport is only issued to those holding high-ranking positions in government or individuals representing India in diplomatic missions.
Both passports serve different purposes, and it’s important to know which type you require depending on your travel needs.
Why choose Tatkal over a regular passport?
The Tatkal passport is an excellent option for those with urgent travel needs, such as emergency business trips, medical treatments, or any personal situations requiring immediate travel. The main advantage is the fast processing time, which can save you from stressful delays. While the Tatkal passport charges are higher than a regular passport, the speed and efficiency of the service make it worthwhile for those needing a passport quickly.
For frequent travellers, ensuring your passport is always up-to-date can prevent such last-minute applications. However, when you find yourself in a bind, the Tatkal passport is a reliable and fast solution.
Conclusion
The Tatkal passport charges may be slightly higher than the regular fees, but the expedited service makes it a valuable option for those in urgent need of a passport. Whether you are planning an important business trip or dealing with an emergency, applying for a Tatkal passport can ensure you receive your passport within a few days. For those in diplomatic roles, the diplomatic passport offers different privileges, but for general travellers, the Tatkal passport remains the best choice for urgent travel needs.