Renewing an Indian passport abroad is a straightforward procedure if you are doing it correctly and providing the right documents. All passport services, including renewal, reissue, and amendments, are undertaken by the Indian Consulate or High Commission of your country of residence. Following is a step-by-step process to guide you through it:
Process to Renew Indian Passport Abroad:
1. Visit the Official Website:
- Visit the official website of the Indian Embassy, High Commission, or Consulate in your nation.
- Download the application form for passport renewal or visit the online application portal (Passport Seva at Indian Embassies and Consulates).
2. Fill Out the Passport Application Form:
- Carefully fill the form with current information like name, address, and contact number.
- Choose reissue/renewal as the application reason (e.g., passport expiration, pages depleted, change in personal information).
3. Collect Required Documents:
- Current/expiration Indian passport (original and a copy).
- Legal status in the country (visa, residency permit).
- Address proof (utility bill, bank statement, or rent agreement).
- Current passport-size pictures (according to specifications).
- Copy of OCI card (if eligible).
- Any documents in addition to these if required for changes (e.g., marriage certificate if adding name).
4. Book an Appointment (If Applicable):
- Consulates of a few countries expect a prior appointment to submit the renewal application of the passport.
- Online or refer to the contact number of the consulate for direction on appointments.
5. Submit Application and Documents:
- Go to the Consulate/Embassy/High Commission on the appointment date.
- Submit the completed application form along with all supporting documents.
- Pay the relevant passport renewal fee (check payment methods: card, cash, online payment).
6. Biometric and Photo Verification (If Required):
- Certain consulates might need biometric and live photograph capture during submission.
7. Processing and Passport Dispatch:
- Once document verification and processing are done, the renewed passport is typically dispatched to your address by post.
- Self-mailer prepaid envelope can be needed for safe delivery.