In a significant move, the Ministry of External Affairs in India has introduced two key changes aimed at streamlining the process for first-time visa applicants and enhancing convenience in securing appointments at local Passport Seva Kendras.
Under the new guidelines, first-time visa applicants under the regular category can expect to receive their passports within a week, provided their applications are accompanied by three essential documents: copies of the Aadhaar card, Voter ID card (EPIC), and PAN card. Additionally, an affidavit in the format of Annexure-I, detailing citizenship, family particulars, and a clean criminal record, must be submitted.
This marks a substantial improvement over the previous month-long processing time, with the police verification stage now occurring after passport issuance. Importantly, there is no additional charge for this service, as confirmed by a statement from the ministry. The entire process is contingent upon the online validation of the Aadhaar number during processing and approval from the granting officer.
Furthermore, EPIC and PAN cards may be validated, if necessary, through specific databases in real-time before application approval. Passports may also be revoked or denied later based on adverse police reports.
Anil Kumar Sobti, Director of the Passport Division in the ministry, emphasized the objective of streamlining the process without compromising on security. He stated, “Our system has built-in safeguards to instantly detect fake identities and frauds. Importantly, our system is linked to the Aadhaar database, allowing real-time verification of the applicant while they are at the Passport Seva Kendra.”
Sobti added, “We are working towards integrating EPIC and PAN cards. The granting officer, during the applicant’s interview, can exercise discretion to extend or withhold the facility. Additionally, the option of seizing or denying the passport post-issuance is always available, and we have exercised it several times.”
The ministry highlighted that the move is aimed at making the process more applicant-friendly while maintaining robust security measures. Atul Gotsurve, Pune’s Regional Passport Officer, emphasized the importance of accurate and complete documentation for a smooth rollout of the new facility. He encouraged applicants to play an active role in their verification process to avoid adverse police reports, which can now be completed within a month of passport issuance. The authorities will closely monitor measures to prevent an increase in such cases.
