India Passport Tatkal Fees: An Overview of the New Charges and Procedures
In recent years, there has been a significant increase in demand for passport services in India. With more and more people looking to travel abroad for work, study, or leisure, the need for quick and efficient passport services has never been higher. To cater to this demand, the Indian government introduced the Tatkal scheme, which allows applicants to expedite the passport issuance process by paying an additional fee. In this article, we will take a closer look at the India passport Tatkal fees, the procedures involved, and everything you need to know to avail of this service.
What is the Tatkal Scheme?
The Tatkal scheme was introduced by the Ministry of External Affairs in India to provide expedited passport services to applicants who need their passports urgently. Under this scheme, applicants can get their passports within a shorter period by paying an additional fee. The Tatkal scheme is especially useful for those who have urgent travel plans or need their passports for visa applications.
Tatkal Fees for Passport Services
The Tatkal fees for passport services vary depending on the type of passport and the number of pages required. As of 2021, the Tatkal fee for a 36-page passport book is Rs. 2,000, while the fee for a 60-page passport book is Rs. 3,000. It is important to note that these fees are in addition to the regular passport application fees.
Procedures for Availing Tatkal Passport Services
To apply for a Tatkal passport, applicants must follow these procedures:
1. Register on the Passport Seva website: Applicants must first register on the Passport Seva website (www.passportindia.gov.in) and create an account.
2. Fill out the online application form: Once registered, applicants must fill out the online application form with accurate details.
3. Choose the Tatkal option: During the application process, applicants must select the Tatkal option and pay the additional fees online.
4. Schedule an appointment: After completing the online application, applicants must schedule an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra or Regional Passport Office.
5. Visit the Passport Seva Kendra/Regional Passport Office: On the scheduled date, applicants must visit the Passport Seva Kendra or Regional Passport Office with all required documents.
6. Biometric verification: Applicants will undergo biometric verification at the Passport Seva Kendra/Regional Passport Office.
7. Passport issuance: If all documents are in order and the verification process is successful, the passport will be issued within a shorter period under the Tatkal scheme.
Advantages of Tatkal Passport Services
The Tatkal scheme offers several advantages to applicants, including:
1. Quick processing: Tatkal passport services expedite the passport issuance process, allowing applicants to get their passports within a shorter period.
2. Convenient for urgent travel plans: The Tatkal scheme is ideal for those who have urgent travel plans and need their passports urgently for visa applications.
3. Higher priority: Applications under the Tatkal scheme are given higher priority, ensuring faster processing and issuance of passports.
Challenges of Tatkal Passport Services
While the Tatkal scheme offers several advantages, there are also some challenges associated with it, including:
1. Additional fees: The Tatkal fees are higher than regular passport application fees, making it more expensive for applicants.
2. Limited slots: The number of Tatkal slots available at Passport Seva Kendras and Regional Passport Offices is limited, leading to high demand and limited availability.
3. Document verification: Applicants must ensure that all documents are in order and undergo biometric verification, which can be time-consuming.
Overall, the Tatkal scheme offers a fast and efficient way to get a passport for those with urgent travel plans or visa applications. By paying the additional fees and following the procedures outlined above, applicants can expedite the passport issuance process and get their passports within a shorter period. However, it is important to plan ahead and apply for a Tatkal passport well in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
