Need to travel abroad on short notice but don't have a passport? The Government of India's Tatkaal scheme allows eligible applicants to obtain a passport much faster than the standard application process. If all documents are complete and your application is in order, your passport is generally issued within 1 to 3 working days.
However, the final processing time may vary depending on document verification and other procedural requirements.
What is a Tatkaal passport?
The Tatkaal passport scheme is a fast-track service offered by the Government of India for people who require a passport urgently. It is especially useful for those travelling abroad for employment, higher education, business, medical emergencies, or other urgent reasons.
Applications submitted under the Tatkaal category are processed on a priority basis.
Documents required
Applicants may be required to submit the following documents:
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Voter ID or driving licence
- Electricity bill or other valid address proof
- Bank passbook
- Proof of date of birth
- Recent passport-size photographs
The exact list of acceptable documents may vary depending on the applicant's category and individual case.
Tatkaal passport fees
36-page passport: ₹3,500
60-page passport: ₹4,000
How to apply for a tatkaal passport
- Visit the 'Passport Seva Portal'.
- Register for an account or log in.
- Click on 'Apply for fresh passport/Re-issue of passport'.
- Fill in the application form and select the Tatkaal category.
- Upload the required documents.
- Pay the applicable fee online.
- Schedule an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).
- Visit the PSK on the appointment date with your original documents and complete the biometric and verification process.
How long does it take?
If your application is complete and all documents are successfully verified, a Tatkaal passport is generally issued within 1 to 3 working days. In certain cases, the passport may be issued first, with police verification carried out afterward, depending on the applicable rules.
Applicants should ensure that all information and supporting documents are accurate to avoid delays in processing.
