You can now apply for a passport through mobile camps
Several smaller cities across India have kicked off a new way to make the passport application process easier. They're sending out mobile vans to local communities, so people don't have to trek long distances to get to passport offices. Right now, this service is only for fresh passport applications or re-issuance (except for lost or damaged ones) under the normal scheme, according to the official website.
Mobile passport service: A trial initiative
The mobile passport service kicked off its trial run in Dehradun on September 30. Regional Passport Officer Vijay Shankar Pandey told Local 18, "People living in remote areas face problems in reaching the passport office. Our aim is to make it available to those people." He also mentioned that the project is still in its trial phase, with five appointments being issued online daily from their system.
Expansion of mobile passport service across India
The mobile passport service is now available in cities like Jamshedpur, Ghaziabad, Ahmedabad, Chandigarh, Kozhikode, Meerut, Agra, Aligarh, and Noida. This is on top of the 93 Passport Seva Kendra outlets and 428 post offices, that already process passport applications across the country. But just a heads-up: these mobile units don't deal with Tatkaal (urgent), police clearance certificate, or any other special types of applications.
How to apply for a passport through mobile vans?
To get a passport through these mobile vans, you first need to register on the official website (www.passportindia.gov.in). After creating your user ID and password, you can fill in the online passport application form. Just a heads-up: they don't accept manually filled application forms at these camps. Once you've filled out the form and paid the fee, you can schedule an appointment with the mobile van service.
What to expect during your mobile van appointment?
When you show up for your mobile van appointment, make sure to bring along your online application reference number (ARN) for verification. You can also use the SMS you received with your appointment details as proof. Don't forget to carry your payment receipt, original documents along with self-attested photocopies, and two recent colored photos (4.5cm by 3.5cm) with a white background. If you're looking to get a re-issue, make sure to have your old passport booklet handy.
