Passport Reference Number – When and How to Get Reference File Number

Today, the world is more connected, allowing people to travel anywhere for work or pleasure. The key to such travel is a valid passport. It is the most essential document for overseas travel and is also used to provide KYC documents needed in banking, e-commerce, and other services.

The Ministry of External Affairs manages the passport application process in India. Applicants must apply through the official online portal. After submitting the application and necessary documents to the nearest Passport Seva Kendra, they will receive a unique Passport File Number as an acknowledgement.What is the file number in the passport? This is a 12-digit unique number given to each applicant. You can check the status online on the official website with this number.

We will discuss the details of the Passport Reference Number and why it matters. Let's dive in!

Who is Eligible for an Indian Passport?

For an Indian passport, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Citizens of India: Only Indian citizens over 18 can apply.
2. Minors: Children below 18, including newborns, are eligible and their parents can apply on behalf of them. The application must include the necessary documents as per the rules.
3. Non-Citizens: Residents who are not Indian citizens cannot get an Indian passport. Instead, they may receive a refugee document or a valid travel document.

These guidelines ensure that passports are issued only to eligible individuals.

What is the File Number in the Passport?

A Passport Reference Number is a 12-digit unique number given to passport applicants. This number is alphanumeric and system-generated. It helps track the application status online.

Here is the Passport Reference Number breakdown:

1. First Four Digits: Represent the city or place where the application is made.
2. Next Two Digits: Indicate the year of the application.
3. Remaining Digits: Refer to the application number in that particular city or place.

This number is a temporary file number. It confirms the documents submitted by the applicant at the nearest Passport, Seva Kendra.

When is the Passport Reference Number Generated?

The passport application process in India is centralised and governed by the Ministry of External Affairs. Here's when the Passport Reference Number is generated:

1. Online Application:
   Applicants must fill out the online application form. This form must be accompanied by specific documents based on the applicant's category. The document requirements are available on the official passport application portal at passportindia.gov.in.
2. Payment of Fees:
   Applicants must pay the fees after submitting the online application. The payment can be made using credit cards, debit cards, internet banking, or SBI bank challan.
3. Booking an Appointment:
   Applicants must select an appointment slot at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) to submit their application form and documents in person. Senior citizens can walk in without an appointment.
4. Submission at PSK:
   Applicants submit a physical copy of their application form and attached documents and complete biometric verification at the PSK.
5. Generation of Reference Number:
   Once the application and documents are submitted and verified, the system generates a Passport Reference Number. This 12-digit alphanumeric code is a temporary internal reference to track the application status.

How to Get the Passport Reference File Number

You receive a passport reference file number when you submit a passport application. This happens after you submit the application form and pay the registration fee. The passport reference number helps you track the status of your application.

Uses of Passport Reference File Number

The passport reference file number has several important uses:

1. Track the status of the passport application. .

2. Required during the police verification process.

Helps ensure timely receipt of the passport:

1. Normal Scheme: Passport received within two to three weeks.
2. Tatkaal Scheme:Passport received within one to three days.

If there is any delay in the delivery of the passport, , the applicant can check the status using the passport file number.

What to Do If Your Passport File Number Is Misplaced

If you misplace your passport reference file number, don't worry. You can reclaim it from the Regional Passport Office (RPO). Visit your local RPO; an official will help you retrieve the number. This number is essential for tracking your passport application status, so keep it safe.

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