Difference Between Tatkal and Normal Passport

Did you know that a passport serves as both a travel document and proof of citizenship? Yes, it's a pretty important piece of ID to have. But let's face it, getting a passport can take a lot of time. That's where the Tatkal passport scheme comes in handy.

If you're in a rush and can't wait for the regular passport application process, the Tatkal scheme might be just the thing for you. It's designed for those who need their passport urgently and don't want to deal with long waiting times and get the procedure fast-tracked.

So, what's the difference between a tatkal and a normal passport? In this blog, we're going to cover all the essential info about these two types of passports. From the application process to the fees, we've got you covered. By the time you're done reading, you'll have a good grasp of which type of passport is the right fit for your needs.

Overview of Normal and Tatkal Passport Renewal

A normal passport usually takes 30 to 45 days to process, while a Tatkal passport is issued under a special scheme for urgent cases, like business or medical travel, with a much quicker turnaround time. Let’s take a deep dive into the major difference between a tatkal and a normal passport:

Parameter	Normal Passport Renewal	Tatkal Passport Renewal
Processing Time	30-45 days	1-3 working days
Fees	Regular fees	Higher fees
Eligibility	Available for all	Only for urgent travel (e.g., medical emergencies, urgent business trips)
Documents	Standard documents (proof of identity, address, citizenship)	Standard documents + additional proof of urgency (e.g., flight tickets, medical certificates)
Appointment	Requires appointment	Requires appointment (often prioritises urgent cases)
Police Verification	Pre-renewal	Post-renewal (may expedite process)
Use Case	Regular, non-urgent travel	Urgent travel plans

Normal and Tatkal Passport Fees Difference

Tatkal vs normal passports also vary in the fee structure. Let’s take a look:

Applicant's Age	Number of Pages Issuance of a Fresh Passport	Fee (in ₹)
15-18 years	36	3000
15-18 years (validity till 18)	36	3000
15-18 years (10 years validity)	36	3500
15-18 years (10 years validity)	60	4000
18 years and above	36	3500
18 years and above	60	4000
Re-issue or Renewal of Passport:-
Below 15 years	36	3000
15 to 18 years (10 years validity)	36	3500
15 to 18 years (10 years validity)	60	4000
18 years and above	36	3500
18 years and above	60	4000

Normal Passport Renewal:

• Fees are standard and typically lower than Tatkal renewal fees.
• The exact fees may vary depending on factors such as the type of passport (ordinary, diplomatic, etc.), the applicant's age, and any additional services requested (e.g., passport booklets).

Tatkal Passport Renewal:

• Fees are significantly higher than normal renewal fees due to the expedited service.
• The additional fee for Tatkal renewal is typically ₹1,000 (this amount may vary slightly).
• This fee is charged in addition to the regular passport renewal fees.

Note: Some passport offices may have additional fees for services like express delivery or priority processing. For the most accurate and up-to-date information on fees, it's advisable to check the official website of the Indian Passport Authority or contact your local passport office.

Eligibility Criteria for a Tatkal Passport vs Normal Passport

Getting a Tatkal passport isn't a sure thing for everyone. The authorities have certain criteria and categories for granting a Tatkal passport. You might be eligible for a Tatkal passport if you fall into one of these categories:

• If you are of Indian origin
• If you received citizenship through registration
• If you were deported to India from another country
• If you are a resident of Jammu and Kashmir or Nagaland
• If you are a minor with a single-parent
• If you are an adopted child, whether by Indian or foreign parents
• If you are a minor resident of Nagaland
• If you've had a change in sex or appearance
• If there has been a change in some particulars, like your signature

Here are the requirements for obtaining a normal passport in India:

General Eligibility:

• Indian Citizenship:You must be an Indian citizen.
• Age:There is no specific age limit, but minors may require additional documents or parental consent.
• No Criminal Record:You should not have any serious criminal convictions.

Proof of Identity: You will need to provide valid documents to prove your identity, such as:

• Birth certificate
• Aadhaar card
• Voter ID card
• Driving licence

Passport (if you have a previous one)

Proof of Address: You will need to provide documents to prove your current address, such as:

• Aadhaar card
• Electricity bill
• Rent agreement

Photographs: You will need to provide recent passport-sized photographs.

Declaration Form: You may need to fill out a declaration form stating that you are an Indian citizen and have no criminal record.

Additional Requirements for Minors

• Parental Consent: If you are under 18, you will need to provide consent from your parents or legal guardians.
• Birth Certificate: A birth certificate is especially important for minors.
• School Leaving Certificate: This can be used as proof of age and address.

Note: The specific requirements may vary slightly depending on your circumstances and the passport office you visit. It's always advisable to check the official website of the Indian Passport Authority or contact your local passport office for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Conclusion

While normal passport renewal takes 30-45 days, the Tatkal scheme offers expedited renewal for emergency travel needs in just 1-3 days. Key differences between tatkal and normal passports include the higher fees, the need for confirmed urgency proof, post-police verification, and the eligibility criteria associated with tatkal renewal. By understanding the nuances of both processes, you can determine whether to opt for normal or tatkal passport renewal.