If you’re applying for or renewing a passport, you’ll likely go through the passport police verification process. This step helps the authorities confirm your current address and identity. When certain details are unclear, such as address discrepancies or a lack of documents, an affidavit for passport police verification may be needed. This blog walks you through the scenarios where affidavits apply, what documents you’ll need, verification timelines, and what to expect during the process. Learn how to stay compliant and speed up your passport processing.
Passport Police Verification Process - Quick Information
Here is a brief overview of the key aspects of the passport police verification process in India to help you understand what to expect.
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| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Verification Type | Pre-verification (before passport issuance) and Post-verification (after issuance). |
| Who Requires It | Most applicants for fresh passports and many for reissues, especially with changes in personal details. |
| Documents Needed | Proof of Address (e.g., Aadhaar card, utility bill), Proof of Date of Birth, and a Photo ID. |
| Affidavit Requirement | Required in specific situations, such as a lack of standard address proof or for name changes. |
| Police Visit Required? | Yes, in most pre-verification cases, an officer will visit the applicant's address. |
| Status Tracking | Can be tracked online through the official Passport Seva Portal. |
| Time Required | Typically takes between 7 to 21 days, depending on the location. |
| What If Adverse? | The applicant must contact the Regional Passport Office (RPO) for clarification and resolution. |
| Fee for Verification | There is no separate fee; it is included in the total passport application fee. |
When Do You Need an Affidavit for Passport Police Verification?
An affidavit is primarily needed when your standard documents are not sufficient to prove certain details or when you need to make a formal legal declaration to explain a specific situation.
Documents Required for Police Verification
To ensure your verification goes smoothly, you must have the correct documents for police verification ready for inspection. The officer will ask to see the originals of the following:
- Proof of Present Address:
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID Card
- Recent Electricity or Water Bill
- Recent Telephone or Gas Connection Bill
- Bank Account Passbook with photographs
- Registered Rent Agreement (if applicable)
- Proof of Date of Birth (DOB):
- Birth Certificate issued by a Municipal Authority.
- School Leaving Certificate or Matriculation (10th Class) Certificate.
- Photo Identity Proof:
- Aadhaar Card
- Voter ID Card
- PAN Card
- Driving License
Passport Police Verification Process in India (Online/Offline)
The verification process is a coordinated effort between the Passport Office and the local police. Understanding the steps can help you prepare accordingly.
- Step 1: After you submit your application at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK), the Regional Passport Office (RPO) forwards your file to the Superintendent of Police (SP) office of your district.
- Step 2: The SP office then sends the verification request to the local police station corresponding to the address mentioned in your application.
- Step 3: A police officer is assigned your case and will typically visit your address to conduct a physical verification.
- Step 4: During the visit, the officer will verify your identity, address, and the authenticity of your documents. You and sometimes your neighbours may be asked to sign the verification form.
- Step 5: The officer submits a report, which is then sent back to the RPO. You can track the entire process online on the official Passport Seva portal: passportindia.gov.in.
How to Check Police Verification Status Online?
You can easily keep track of your verification status online. This helps you know if the police report has been submitted and whether it is clear.
- Step 1: Visit the official Passport Seva website at passportindia.gov.in.
- Step 2: On the homepage, click on the "Track Application Status" link.
- Step 3: On the tracking page, select your application type (e.g., Passport/PCC/IC).
- Step 4: Enter your 15-digit file number and your date of birth in the DD-MM-YYYY format.
- Step 5: Click "Track Status." The screen will display the current stage of your application, including the status of your police verification.
Time Taken for Police Verification
The time taken for the police to complete their verification can vary significantly based on your location and the efficiency of local administrative processes.
| Location Type | Average Time |
|---|---|
| Metro Cities | 3–7 working days |
| Tier 2/3 Cities | 7–14 working days |
| Rural Areas | Up to 21 working days |
What If Police Verification Fails or Is Marked Adverse?
If the police verification report is marked "adverse" or "incomplete," your passport application will be put on hold. You will need to contact your Regional Passport Office (RPO) immediately to understand the specific reason and take corrective action.
When is an Affidavit Required During Police Verification?
An affidavit serves as a formal, sworn statement to provide clarity or proof in situations where standard documents are not enough. Here are common scenarios requiring an affidavit:
- For Address Proof: If you have not been living at your current address for a full year, and lack sufficient proof.
- For Name Change: If you have changed your name after marriage or for any other reason, and need to declare both your old and new names.
- For Lost or Damaged Passport: When applying for a passport reissue, you need to submit an affidavit explaining the circumstances of the loss or damage.
- For ECNR Status: Applicants seeking "Emigration Check Not Required" status based on their qualifications or other criteria may need to submit a specific affidavit.
- For Discrepancies: To explain any differences in names, addresses, or other details across your various official documents.
Preparing these affidavits can be complex. To ensure they are legally sound and in the correct format, you can use professional legal services from platforms like NoBroker.
Key Tips for Smooth Police Verification
To avoid delays or an adverse report, follow these simple tips for a hassle-free police verification experience.
- Be available at the residential address you provided in the application form, especially during working hours.
- Inform your family members or flatmates about the possible police visit so they can cooperate if you are not present.
- Keep a file with the originals and one set of self-attested photocopies of all your documents ready for inspection.
- Be polite and cooperative with the police officer during the verification process and answer all questions honestly.
- Ensure your signature on the verification form matches the one on your application and other documents.
- Do not offer any money to the officer, as the verification is a free service included in your passport fee.
How NoBroker Can Help With Affidavit Services?
Navigating the documentation for a passport can be challenging, especially when it comes to legal documents like affidavits. NoBroker offers expert legal services to help you draft and notarise affidavits in the correct format, ensuring they meet the requirements of the Passport Office. Our streamlined process saves you time and helps prevent rejections due to incorrect paperwork, making your passport application journey much smoother.
