How to Activate SMS Alert For Passport Online in India

The Passport Seva SMS Service sends status alerts on every step of your Indian passport application. You can activate it while filling the form online using the Passport Seva Portal or mPassport Seva app. Once enrolled, messages are sent directly to your mobile number.

To enable SMS alerts, select the opt-in option shown on the declaration page during the form process. Pay ₹50 in cash at the Passport Seva Kendra on the day of your appointment. The alerts begin only after this payment is made at Counter A. Once active, you will get updates for that application without logging in or checking manually.

This post shows how to activate SMS alert for passport online in India, how to pay fee at your PSK visit, and what alerts are included. You will also learn how the mPassport app supports this service, what to do if messages do not arrive, and how to track your passport without SMS.

What Is the Passport Seva SMS Service

This is a paid message-based service that sends updates on your Indian passport application through system-generated alerts. It starts only after your opt-in is recorded during the form process and the fee is accepted at the Passport Seva Kendra.

Each update is based on system entries like police verification entry, file approval movement, or completion of printing. You will receive messages linked to your file number on the mobile number used in the application.

Anyone applying through the online portal or the mPassport Seva app can choose this option. The service ends once your application status shows completed, withdrawn, or rejected. One-time use only. One passport file per activation.

Is the SMS Service Mandatory for Indian Passport

No. It is not required to use the SMS service to apply for an Indian passport.

You can apply online, schedule your appointment, and complete verification without selecting this option. Choosing SMS updates is voluntary and does not affect how your file moves inside the system.

Applicants who skip this step will still get a few basic alerts such as dispatch status. Full tracking stays available through the mPassport app or portal using your file number and birth date. The ₹50 service only adds extra alerts through text, nothing more.

How to Activate SMS Service via Passport Seva Website

You can add SMS alerts during the online passport form process. The option appears near the end of the form. Follow these steps to activate it and receive messages about your application on your mobile.

• Visit the Official Website: Go to Passport Seva Portal. Create an account or log in if you already have one.

• Start a New Application: Select the option for fresh passport or reissue. Begin filling the form online.

• Complete the Full Form: Enter your name, date of birth, address, identity proof, and contact number. Check all pages one by one.

• Find the SMS Option on Last Page: Scroll to the self-declaration section. You will see a question asking about SMS alerts.

• Choose Yes to Get SMS Updates: Tick the option that says you want messages about your application. This adds SMS to your form.

• Read the Fee Message on Screen: After selecting Yes, a message will appear. It shows that you need to pay ₹50 for the SMS service at the passport center.

• Pay the Online Passport Fee: Use any method shown on the screen to pay the application fee. Book your appointment at the passport center after payment.

• Get Messages on Your Mobile
  You will now get SMS updates about your file status. Messages will stop after your passport is delivered or the file is closed.

How to Activate SMS Alerts Using the mPassport Seva App

You can use the mPassport Seva mobile app to apply and also enable SMS alerts on your phone. These updates show each stage of your file. Follow these six steps to activate this option easily.

1. Install and Open the App: Search for mPassport Seva on the Play Store or App Store. Download the app. Open it and register using your name, email, and selected passport office. You can also log in if already registered.
2. Start Your Application: Choose the type of passport. Tap on fresh or reissue. The app shows one form page at a time. Fill in your name, address, and other personal details.
3. Select the SMS Alert Option: At the end of the form, you will see a question asking if you want SMS alerts. Choose Yes. The number you entered will be used for all messages.
4. Submit Form and Make Online Payment: After reviewing your form, tap submit. Then pay the application fee using any online method shown in the app. This does not include the SMS fee.
5. Visit PSK and Pay ₹50 for SMS: Reach the Passport Seva Kendra on your selected date. At the counter, tell the officer you picked SMS alerts. Pay ₹50 in cash. Ask for the payment slip.
6. Receive Messages Automatically: Your phone will start getting SMS updates as your passport moves through the process. These alerts continue until your application is closed.

When to Pay the Passport SMS Service Fee

The SMS fee is paid at the time of your appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra. This ₹50 charge is not included in your online payment for the main passport application. It is handled separately.

You pay the SMS amount during in-person document verification. The officer at Counter A will ask if you selected SMS alerts. If you say yes, they will collect the cash before proceeding with your file check.

What Passport SMS Updates You Will Receive After Activation

Once the fee is paid at your passport appointment, SMS alerts begin. Each message is linked to an update in your file. These messages are sent only when your file moves to the next step.

The alerts cover different parts of the application process. Every SMS is brief and direct. You do not need to reply or check anything manually. The updates show you where your file stands without opening the portal or app.

Sample Messages You May Receive:

• Application received and under process
• Police verification sent to local station
• Report received from police
• Passport printing task assigned
• Passport printed and ready for dispatch
• Dispatched through Speed Post with tracking ID
• Passport delivered or record marked complete
• Follow-up required from applicant (if applicable)
• Appointment rescheduled or returned file remark

Each of these is tied to your file number. The messages stop once the file is closed.

What if passport sms was not activated?

If you did not activate SMS alerts during your passport appointment, the messages will not start. But you still have other ways to check your application status without paying the ₹50 fee.

You can use your file number and date of birth to log in at www.passportindia.gov.in. You can also track the same information in the mPassport Seva app. If you want a one-time update without using the internet, send an SMS from any mobile to 9704100100 in this format:
STATUS <File Number>

You will get one reply showing your current file status. The system will not send more updates unless the SMS service is active. For urgent help, call the Passport Seva helpline at 1800‑258‑1800.

Common Questions About the Passport SMS Service

How much does Passport SMS Alert Fee?

Passport SMS alert charge charge is ₹50 for one passport file. You pay this in person during your visit to the Passport Seva Kendra. This fee is separate from your main application payment made online.

How do I pay for the Passport SMS service Charge?

You pay ₹50 in cash when you visit the Passport Seva Kendra. During document check at Counter A, mention that you selected SMS alerts. The officer will collect the fee and attach it to your application.

Is it mandatory to opt for the Passport SMS updates?

No. The passport will still move forward even without SMS alerts. If you want mobile updates during the process, this service helps avoid logging in to check manually.

If I did not opt for SMS during the online Passport form, can I add it later?

Yes. Tell the officer during your appointment and pay ₹50 in cash. That activates the alerts. If you already selected Yes online but do not pay, the alerts will not start

Will I get any Passport SMS updates if I do not pay for the service?

Only a few. Basic alerts such as appointment booked or dispatch confirmation may be sent without SMS activation. You will not receive updates during verification or printing unless the service is paid and linked.

Does opting for SMS service make the passport come faster?

No. It does not change your file’s speed. The alerts help you follow what happens inside the system. The queue stays the same for all applicants.

If my mobile number changes after applying Passport, can I update it for SMS?

During your PSK visit, you can ask the officer to update the number before file submission. If the application is already locked, use the portal or app to track status instead of relying on messages.

What if I paid for Passport SMS Alert but I am not receiving any messages?

Check if your mobile has signal and is open to bulk messages. If alerts still do not come, call 1800‑258‑1800 with your file number. They will help you track manually and check if alerts are working.