How to Check if Passport is Valid?

A passport is not merely a travel document, it’s your key to exploring the world and an essential proof of citizenship.

In India, passports are issued by the Ministry of External Affairs, a process overseen by the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).

These crucial documents have a defined validity period, and ensuring your passport remains valid is paramount for hassle-free international travel.

These centers facilitate the application, renewal, and verification processes, ensuring that Indian citizens have access to a valid passport or eligibility to travel abroad.

An invalid passport can disrupt your travel plans and can result in denied entry at immigration checkpoints, delays, and even deportation from a foreign country. Therefore, keeping your passport valid and up-to-date is an absolute requirement.

Here in this article, we will explore the steps to check if your passport is valid and what to do if you find it’s nearing expiration or has already expired.

How to Check the Validity of Passport?

The validity of the passport is printed on the first page of the document, alongside your details. This information includes the date of issue and the date of expiration. The date of expiration signifies the last day until which your passport is considered valid for international travel.

While traveling abroad, some countries want you to have at least 6 months of validation while applying for a visa to ensure, your passport does not get invalidated at the time of travel.  

How to Check Passport Status Online?

If your passport is expired, you have to apply for a new passport which can be done online from the passport seva kendra. After applying for the passport is important for you to check the status of your application.

Checking your passport status online is a straightforward process. You can check passport status online via the Passport Seva portal or mPassport Seva app, which is as follows-

Passport Status Check Online via Passport Seva Portal

• Visit the Passport Seva Portal by visiting the official Passport Seva Portal website
• Now, click on the ‘Track Application Status’ followed by Entering Your Details like name, reference number, date of birth, and other details
• After filling in the details, you’ll have to click on the ‘Track Status’ button
• After clicking on the track button, your status will be displayed on the portal
• Check Status: After entering the required information, click the ‘Track Status’ button. The portal will provide you with the current status of your passport application

Passport Status Check via the mPassport Seva app

• Download the mPassport Seva app from your smartphone’s app store available for both Android and iOS devices
• If you’re a first-time user, you’ll need to register by providing essential details. If you’ve already registered through the Passport Seva Portal, you can simply log in using your login credentials
• Now, Access the ‘Track Application Status’ button followed by entering the Application Reference Number and date of birth
• After filling out the details, click on the track status button and you’ll find the status of your passport on the screen

What is the Status?

When you check your status, you’ll find three statuses, which are as follows-

Processing

When your passport application status is marked as “Processing,” it means that your application is currently being reviewed and verified by the relevant authorities.

During this stage, the officials scrutinize your documents, conduct background checks, and ensure that all the requirements are met.

Dispatched

“Dispatched” is a positive status indicating that your passport has been processed successfully and is ready to be sent to you.

It means that your application has met all the necessary criteria, and your passport is in the final stages of being prepared for delivery.

Pending

If your passport application status is marked as “Pending,” it indicates that there may be specific issues or requirements that need further attention or verification.

This status suggests that your application is on hold until the necessary information or documents are provided, or additional checks are completed.

How to Check Passport Status Offline?

The following are the steps that you can follow to check your passport status offline-

SMS

To receive application status updates, kindly send an SMS from your registered mobile number (as provided in your passport application form) in the following format: STATUS FILE NUMBER to 9704100100.

National Call Centre

You can also inquire about your passport status by contacting the National Call Centre. The call center operates a toll-free helpline, and you can reach them at 1800-258-1800.

Helpdesk

You can also seek assistance from the help desk to inquire about your passport status. You have the option to visit the nearest Passport Seva Kendra or send an email to receive updates on the status of your passport application.

FAQ