Check Passport Application Status Online in India 2026
Applicants can track a fresh passport, renewal or reissue application through the Government of India's Passport Seva portal. The official tracker normally asks for the application type, file number and applicant's date of birth.
How to check passport status online
- Open the official Track Application Status page.
- Select the appropriate Application Type from the available choices, such as Passport or Police Clearance Certificate (PCC).
- Enter the File Number shown on the application acknowledgement or receipt issued by the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or other designated centre.
- Enter the applicant's Date of Birth exactly as recorded in the application.
- Select Track Application Status to see the latest information available in the system.
The official step-by-step status guide explains the file-number and date-of-birth fields. An acknowledgement file number is generally a 15-character alphanumeric identifier; do not confuse it with an appointment reference or an existing passport number.
What different passport application statuses mean
Application under review or processing
The passport authority is reviewing the application, supporting documents or internal checks. Further information or attendance may be requested where necessary.
Police verification pending or in progress
The relevant police verification process may still be underway. The time required depends on the case, local verification arrangements and whether the report has reached the passport authority.
Police verification report received
A report may have reached the passport authority, but this does not itself guarantee that a passport has been granted. The authority must complete any remaining checks and make the appropriate decision.
Passport granted, printed or dispatched
These stages generally indicate progress after a grant decision. If a dispatch or consignment reference is provided, use it to follow delivery through the designated postal service. Dispatch and delivery dates vary.
Application on hold or additional documents required
Read the instructions on the portal, check any official email or SMS, and respond within the period specified by the passport authority. A status message alone may not explain every deficiency.
Other ways to track passport status
- Mobile app: The official Passport Seva app supports application-status enquiries and other passport services.
- SMS: The Passport Seva information page describes sending STATUS followed by a space and the file number to 9704100100. SMS charges or service availability may vary; check current portal instructions.
- Call centre: Contact the Passport Seva National Call Centre at 1800-258-1800 with your file number and date of birth ready.
- Online assistance: Refer to the official information and contact channels for enquiries and grievances.
Relevant law governing passport applications
Section 5 of the Passports Act, 1967 concerns applications for passports and travel documents and the passport authority's consideration of an application after such inquiry, if any, as it considers necessary. An online tracking result is an administrative update and is not itself a legal decision granting a passport.
Section 6 of the Passports Act, 1967 sets out grounds on which the passport authority may refuse to issue a passport or travel document, subject to the terms of the statute.
Section 10 of the Passports Act, 1967 deals with variation, impounding and revocation of passports and travel documents in specified circumstances. It should not be confused with routine delays in processing a pending application.
The Passports Rules, 1980 provide procedural requirements relating to passport applications and supporting information. Under Rule 5, read with Section 5, the passport authority may require information, documents or certificates necessary for disposing of an application.
For the current rules and procedures, consult the Passport Seva official guidance and the Passport Seva portal.
Frequently asked questions
Can I check passport status without logging in?
The public tracking page allows status checks using the prescribed application details, without requiring applicants to enter their portal password.
Where can I find the passport file number?
Look at the acknowledgement letter issued after submission at the PSK or designated centre. It is usually displayed near the top of the document.
Can I track a Police Clearance Certificate application?
Yes. Select the applicable PCC option on the official tracker and enter the required details.
What should I do if the passport status does not change?
Check again after a reasonable interval and review any official communication. For prolonged delays, contact the National Call Centre or submit a grievance through the Passport Seva portal. Processing times are case-dependent.
Can I track a passport application submitted abroad?
Applicants using Indian Missions or Posts abroad should follow the relevant mission's instructions and may use the Passport Seva at Indian Embassies and Consulates tracking page.
Important safety information
Enter your file number, date of birth and other personal details only on the official government portal or authorised services. This information page does not process applications, collect passport details or provide government tracking results.
Disclaimer: This article provides general procedural and legal information, not individual legal advice. Passport Seva screens and requirements may change; follow the instructions displayed on the official portal and directions from the passport authority.