How to Apply for a Passport with a Temporary Address in India

Obtaining a passport in India can seem like a complicated process, especially if you are residing at a temporary address. However, the government has allowed individuals living in rented accommodations, with relatives, or temporarily in another city for work or studies to apply for a passport using their temporary address.

This article outlines the step-by-step process, required documents, and key considerations for applying for a passport with a temporary address.

Steps to Apply for a Passport with a Temporary Address

1. Verify Your Eligibility

Before applying for a passport with a temporary address, ensure you meet the basic eligibility criteria. These include:

•     You must be an Indian citizen.
•     You must have no criminal record.
•   You must be above 18 years of age (a guardian must apply on behalf of minors).

Once you confirm your eligibility, you can proceed with the application.

2. Gather the Required Documents

Collect the necessary documents, ensuring they include proof of your temporary address. The mandatory documents are:

• Proof of Identity: Any government-issued photo ID, such as your Aadhaar card, voter ID, or PAN card, can be proof of identity.
•     Proof of Date of Birth: You can provide your birth certificate, school leaving certificate, or a passport of a parent/guardian as proof of date of birth.
• Proof of Temporary Address: This is the most critical document and can include:

○   Rent agreement.

○  Utility bills (electricity, water, or gas bills).

○  A letter from the property owner confirming your stay.

○  Bank statement with the current address.

○  Property tax receipt or any other document containing your current address.

• If you live with friends or relatives, they may need to provide a declaration verifying your stay.
• Passport-sized Photographs: Standard passport-sized photographs in the prescribed format.
• Self-Declaration: A written statement mentioning your temporary address and the duration of your stay, if required.

3. Fill Out the Passport Application Form

Once your documents are ready, fill out the passport application form. You can choose either:

• Online: You can visit the official Passport Seva website (passportindia.gov.in) to fill out the application form online. After filling out the form, submit it. An application receipt will be generated after submission.
• Offline: Visit your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and fill out the form in person.

While filling out the form, ensure you provide accurate details about your temporary address.

4. Submit the Application and Book an Appointment

After filling out the application form, submit it online and schedule an appointment at your nearest PSK. If you’re applying offline, you can submit the form at the PSK directly.

During the appointment, you will undergo document verification, biometric data collection (fingerprints and photograph), and, in some cases, an interview. Carry all the original documents and photocopies for verification at the PSK.

5. Police Verification for Temporary Address

Police verification is a critical step in the passport application process, especially for a temporary address. The police will verify your current place of residence and ensure that the information provided in the application is accurate.

• What Happens During Police Verification: The police will visit your temporary address to confirm the details provided in your application. They may also speak with the landlord or the property owner for verification.
• Tips for Smooth Verification:

○  Ensure you provide accurate contact details of your landlord or the person you are staying with.

○ Request your landlord or host to be available during the police visit.

○  If you are living with a relative, they may need to submit a formal declaration confirming your stay.

Since police verification may take some time, it’s essential to be prepared for delays. Typically, police verification for individuals staying at a temporary address can take longer than people living at their permanent address.

6. Attend the Appointment at Passport Seva Kendra

On the day of your appointment, ensure you bring all original documents, their photocopies and the receipt of your online application (if applicable). The officials at the PSK will verify the documents and take your biometric information (fingerprints and photographs).

If everything is in order, the processing of your passport will commence.

7. Wait for Passport Processing

Once submitted, your application will go through the processing stage, which typically takes between 15 and 30 working days. However, the timeline may vary based on the completion of police verification and the type of application.

8. Receive Your Passport

Once your passport has been processed and approved, it will be dispatched to the address mentioned in your application form. If there are discrepancies or additional documents are required, the authorities will contact you for further action.

Conclusion

Applying for a passport with a temporary address is manageable if you follow the necessary steps and ensure that your documentation is accurate and complete. The most critical part is proving your temporary address and completing police verification.

Patience is key, as processing and verification can take time. Once you receive your passport, consider buying travel insurance before travelling. A travel insurance app can help you find the best travel insurance plans based on your needs and destination, covering areas such as medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and more. This ensures that you are well-protected while travelling.