A passport acts as proof of identification for international travel and is a mandated document, just like your travel insurance policy and visa. Most, if not all, countries mandate foreign nationals to carry their passports when travelling overseas.
To simplify the application process, the Government of India facilitates passport applications and appointment booking at passport offices (PSKs and RPOs) through the Passport Seva portal. Here, you can go for two types of passport application processes – Normal vs Tatkal passports.
What is a Normal Passport?
A normal passport is issued in normal circumstances. The application for such a passport follows the standard procedure mentioned by the Consular at the Passport and Visa Division of the Ministry of External Affairs.
What is a Tatkal Passport?
A Tatkal passport serves all the purposes that normal passports do, but the circumstances under which it is issued are urgent. Such applications are usually filed by people who want their passports urgently.
Such applicants need to pay additional fees for urgent processing. This process works for both people who are applying for their new passport or who already have one for renewal.
Normal VS Tatkal Passport: Key Differences
| Parameters | Normal Passport | Tatkal Passport |
| Purpose |
|
|
| Processing Time | Usually 30-45 working days from the DOA to apply for a new normal passport or to renew one. | The processing time for Tatakal’s passport application for new or renewal is 1-3 working days. |
| Document Required |
|
Applicants over 18 years of age have to submit the three documents mentioned in the list below.
(Note: The applicants under 18 should submit two documents from the provided list from points 1 to 6) |
Normal Vs Tatkal Passport Application Process
The procedure for Tatkal works the same as for a normal passport. For Tatkal passports, you need to choose the category “Tatkal scheme” after choosing Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport. The rest of the process remains the same for both passports:
- Register for an account on the Passport Seva Portal.
- Once done with registration, you can log in to your account by selecting the highlighted green box, which says Existing User Login.
- Once you log in, you will have the option to apply for a new passport or have your passport reissued.
- Fill in the details required for the form and click on submit.
- Once all details are filled in, you need to make payment and then schedule an appointment.
- You will also get the option to print the application receipt. You need this for your in-person appointment.
Normal vs Tatkal Passport Fees
| Particulars | Normal Fees | Tatkal Fees |
| Fresh/Reissue Passport (36 pages, 10 years) | ₹1,500 | ₹2,000 |
| Fresh/Reissue Passport (60 pages, 10 years) | ₹2,000 | ₹2,000 |
| Fresh/Reissue Passport (minors, 30 pages, 5 years) | ₹1000 | ₹2,000 |
| Replacement Passport (36 pages, lost/damaged/stolen) | ₹3,000 | ₹2,000 |
| Replacement Passport (60 pages, lost/damaged/stolen) | ₹3,500 | ₹2,000 |
| Replacement Passport (36 pages, change in personal particulars) | ₹1,500 | ₹2,000 |
Lost Passport Insurance: What Can You Do If You Lose Your Passport During Your Trip?
Imagine a situation where you misplaced or lost your passport, or worse, it was stolen. In these cases, it’s best to inform the authorities as soon as possible and quickly proceed to replace your stolen passport by contacting the nearest Indian Embassy or Consulate.
Navigating this process can be stressful enough. Throw in the fact that you’re in a foreign land and it can quickly ruin your trip. Getting traveller insurance with lost passport insurance coverage is one way to ensure you get assistance during such scenarios.
A travel insurance passport cover will reimburse you the costs insured from having to replace your passport in case it is lost, damaged or stolen. Many insurers like Tata AIG offer this cover under their regular and multi trip travel insurance plans to ensure comprehensive coverage.
Conclusion
When it comes to normal vs tatkal passports, the difference lies only in application processing and issuance times; the passports issued will not differ. A Tatkal passport is issued in 1-3 days and a normal passport is issued within 30 days from the date of application.
Lastly, whether you are travelling under urgent or normal circumstances, always ensure you have traveller insurance with trip insurance coverage. It’s an essential travel companion for your trip and can also provide much-needed assistance if you ever lose your passport.