Lost or Damaged Passport? How to Apply for Reissue in India

Losing your passport or having it damaged can be stressful — especially if you have upcoming travel plans. The good news is that the Indian passport reissue process is straightforward and can be initiated online through the Passport Seva portal.

This guide covers the complete process for applying for a passport reissue when your existing passport is lost, damaged, or stolen.

Disclaimer: CitizenNest is an independent platform and is not affiliated with the Government of India. Always verify details on the official Passport Seva portal.

When Do You Need a Passport Reissue?

You need to apply for a reissue (not a fresh passport) in these situations:

• Lost passport — misplaced or cannot be found
• Damaged passport — torn pages, water damage, illegible details
• Stolen passport — taken without your consent
• Expired passport — validity has ended (separate from lost/damaged but same reissue flow)

Important: If your passport is lost or stolen, you must first file an FIR (First Information Report) at the nearest police station before applying for reissue.

Documents Required

Mandatory Documents

1. FIR copy — for lost or stolen passports (original + photocopy)
2. Aadhaar Card — as proof of identity and address
3. Self-declaration (Annexure-I) — declaration about the lost/damaged passport (download from Passport Seva portal)
4. Old passport photocopy — if available (first and last page, observation page, ECR/non-ECR page)
5. Recent passport-size photographs — as per passport photo specifications

Additional Documents (as applicable)

• Damaged passport — submit the damaged passport itself
• Address proof — if address has changed (Aadhaar, utility bill, bank statement)
• Date of birth proof — birth certificate or matriculation certificate
• Marriage certificate — if name has changed due to marriage

For Government Employees

• NOC (No Objection Certificate) from the employer
• Identity certificate from the employer

Step-by-Step Online Process

Step 1: File an FIR (for Lost/Stolen Passport)

• Visit your nearest police station
• File an FIR mentioning passport number, date of issue, place of issue
• Get a certified copy of the FIR
• Some states allow e-FIR filing online

Step 2: Register on Passport Seva Portal

1. Go to passportindia.gov.in
2. Click "Register Now" if you don't have an account
3. Fill in your details and verify your email
4. If you already have an account, simply log in

Step 3: Apply Online

1. Log in to Passport Seva portal
2. Click "Apply for Re-issue of Passport"
3. Select the reason: "Lost Passport" or "Damaged Passport"
4. Fill in the application form carefully:
   • Personal details (must match your old passport)
   • Family details
   • Address details (present and permanent)
   • Emergency contact
5. Upload required documents in the specified format
6. Review all details and submit

Step 4: Pay the Fee

• Pay online via credit/debit card, net banking, or UPI
• Save the payment receipt

Step 5: Book Appointment

1. After payment, schedule an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK)
2. Choose a convenient date and time slot
3. Print the appointment confirmation

Step 6: Visit PSK with Documents

• Arrive 15 minutes before your appointment
• Carry all original documents along with photocopies
• Carry the printed application receipt and appointment letter
• Your documents will be verified, biometrics captured, and photo taken

Step 7: Police Verification

• For lost/stolen passports, police verification is mandatory before passport issuance
• A police officer will visit your address or contact you
• Keep your documents ready for verification

Step 8: Receive Your Passport

• After successful police verification, the passport is printed and dispatched
• You'll receive it via Speed Post at your registered address
• Track status on the Passport Seva portal or via SMS

Fees

Note: For lost passports, a penalty of ₹500 may not apply separately — the reissue fee itself covers the process. Fees are subject to revision; check the official portal for the latest amounts.

Processing Time

Note: Lost passport cases typically take longer due to mandatory pre-issuance police verification.

Important Tips

1. File FIR immediately — don't delay reporting a lost or stolen passport, as it can be misused
2. Keep photocopies — always maintain photocopies of your passport's important pages and store them separately
3. Same details recommended — apply with the same name and address as the old passport to avoid delays
4. Tatkal for urgent travel — if you have confirmed travel within 3 weeks, apply under Tatkal with proof of travel
5. Track your application — use the Passport Seva portal or our passport status check guide to track progress

What If You Lost Your Passport Abroad?

If you lose your passport while travelling outside India:

1. File a police report in the local country
2. Contact the nearest Indian Embassy or Consulate
3. Apply for an Emergency Certificate (EC) for immediate return to India
4. Or apply for a new passport at the embassy (takes longer)
5. Carry the local police report and any ID proof you have

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I apply for passport reissue without an FIR?

For lost or stolen passports, an FIR is mandatory. For damaged passports, no FIR is needed — just submit the damaged passport along with your application.

Will my passport number change after reissue?

Yes, you will receive a new passport with a new number. The old passport number becomes invalid.

Can I apply for reissue online without visiting PSK?

No, a PSK visit is mandatory for biometric capture and document verification. However, the application form and payment can be completed online.

How long is the reissued passport valid?

The reissued passport is valid for 10 years from the date of issue (5 years for minors under 18).

Can I get a Tatkal passport if my passport is lost?

Yes, you can apply under Tatkal for lost passport reissue. You'll need to provide proof of urgent travel (flight tickets, visa, etc.) along with the additional Tatkal fee.

What if I don't remember my old passport number?

Mention whatever details you remember in the FIR. You can also check old visa copies, airline bookings, or immigration stamps for passport details. The Passport Seva system can look up your records using your name and date of birth.

Is police verification mandatory for damaged passport reissue?

Police verification may or may not be required for damaged passports — it depends on your case. For lost/stolen passports, it is always mandatory.

Last updated: March 2026. Information is for guidance only — always verify fees and process on the official Passport Seva portal.