How to Track Passport Application Status Online

After submitting your passport application, the wait can feel long. Tracking your application status helps you stay informed about where your file is — whether it's under review, at police verification, or ready for dispatch.

This guide covers every way to check your passport application status in India.

Why Track Your Passport Status?

• Know exactly where your application stands — no guesswork
• Spot delays early and take action before it's too late
• Plan your travel based on expected delivery date
• Follow up on police verification if it's stuck
• Get your Speed Post tracking number once the passport is dispatched

Method 1: Track Online via Passport Seva Portal (Recommended)

This is the most reliable method. You need your File Number (format: XX-1234567890123) and Date of Birth.

Steps:

1. Go to passportindia.gov.in
2. Click on "Track Application Status" on the homepage
3. Select "Passport/PCC/IC/GEP" as the application type
4. Enter your File Number — this is printed on your application receipt
5. Enter your Date of Birth in DD/MM/YYYY format
6. Complete the captcha and click "Track Status"

Your current application status will be displayed along with a timeline of all actions taken so far.

Tip: Your File Number is on the acknowledgement receipt you received at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). It starts with a two-letter code (your state) followed by 13 digits.

Method 2: Track via mPassport Seva App

The official app from the Ministry of External Affairs lets you track status on your phone.

Steps:

1. Download mPassport Seva from Google Play Store or Apple App Store
2. Open the app and tap "Track Application Status"
3. Select application type as "Passport/PCC/IC/GEP"
4. Enter your File Number and Date of Birth
5. Tap "Track Status"

The app shows the same information as the website, but is more convenient on mobile.

Method 3: Track via SMS

You can check your passport status by sending an SMS from your registered mobile number.

Format:

STATUS <File Number>

Example:

STATUS AB-1234567890123

Send this SMS to 9704100100.

You will receive a reply with your current application status. This method is useful when you don't have internet access.

Understanding Passport Status Messages

Here's what each status message means:

Note: If your status has been stuck on the same stage for more than 2-3 weeks, consider filing a grievance (see below).

How to Check Police Verification Status

Police verification is often the longest part of the process. Here's how to stay on top of it:

1. Check on Passport Seva Portal — The status tracker shows when police verification was initiated and when the report was received
2. Visit your local police station — If the status shows "Police Verification Initiated" for more than 2-3 weeks, visit the police station listed in your application with:
   • A copy of your passport application receipt
   • Your original Aadhaar card or address proof
   • Your File Number
3. Contact the SP/SSP office — If the local police station hasn't acted, escalate to the Superintendent of Police office in your district

Tip: Police verification for reissue/renewal with the same address is often quicker than for fresh applications or address changes.

Track Passport Delivery via Speed Post

Once your status shows "Dispatched", your passport is on its way via India Post Speed Post.

Steps:

1. Note the Speed Post tracking number from the Passport Seva status tracker (it appears after dispatch)
2. Go to India Post Tracking
3. Enter the consignment/tracking number
4. Click "Track" to see delivery updates

Speed Post delivery typically takes 2-7 days depending on your location. Someone must be available at your registered address to receive and sign for the passport.

If delivery fails: India Post will attempt delivery again. If nobody is available, the passport is returned to the Passport Office. You may need to visit the nearest post office with your ID to collect it.

Common Delays and What to Do

General Timelines:

• Normal passport: 30-45 days from application
• Tatkal passport: 1-3 weeks from application
• Police verification: 1-4 weeks (varies by state and district)
• Dispatch to delivery: 2-7 days via Speed Post

Grievance & Helpline

Passport Seva Helpline

• Toll-free number: 1800-258-1800 (available 24x7)
• Email: Write to the Regional Passport Office through the portal

File a Grievance Online

If your application is unreasonably delayed or you're facing issues:

1. Go to portal2.passportindia.gov.in
2. Log in with your Passport Seva account
3. Navigate to "Grievance / Feedback"
4. Fill in the details — your File Number, issue description, and supporting information
5. Submit and note the grievance reference number

Grievances are typically addressed within 30 days.

RTI (Right to Information) for Passport Status

If grievances don't work, you can file an RTI application:

1. Go to rtionline.gov.in
2. File an RTI addressed to the Ministry of External Affairs or the relevant Regional Passport Office
3. Ask specifically about the status and reason for delay of your application (mention your File Number)
4. Pay the ₹10 fee online

RTI is a powerful legal tool — the office is required to respond within 30 days.

FAQs

Q1: Where do I find my passport File Number?

Your File Number is printed on the application receipt given to you at the Passport Seva Kendra after your appointment. The format is two letters followed by 13 digits (e.g., DL-1234567890123).

Q2: How long does it take to get a passport after applying?

For a normal application, expect 30-45 days. For a Tatkal application, it can take 1-3 weeks. The biggest variable is police verification time.

Q3: My status shows "Dispatched" but I haven't received the passport. What should I do?

Use the Speed Post tracking number (shown on the status page) to track delivery on the India Post website. If it shows "returned to sender" or is stuck, visit your nearest post office with your ID. If the issue persists, call 1800-258-1800.

Q4: Can someone else collect my passport on my behalf?

Generally, no. The passport must be delivered to and signed for by the applicant at the registered address. In exceptional cases, contact the Passport Office for guidance.

Q5: What if police verification has a negative report?

If police verification is adverse, the Passport Office may reject the application or ask for additional clarification. You can visit the Regional Passport Office to understand the issue and provide additional documents or explanation. You may also file a representation through the Passport Seva portal.

Q6: Is there a way to speed up the passport process?

If you applied under the normal category, you cannot switch to Tatkal midway. However, you can:

• Follow up on police verification at your local police station
• Ensure all documents are complete to avoid "pending documents" delays
• File a grievance if timelines exceed the standard processing period

Q7: Can I track someone else's passport application?

Yes. You only need their File Number and Date of Birth to track the status on the Passport Seva Portal or app. No login is required for tracking.