Police verification plays a crucial role in the Indian passport process by confirming an applicant’s residential address and checking for criminal records.
After an application is accepted by passport authorities, the provided details are sent to the local police for field and background checks. This verification helps prevent misuse of passports by ensuring only eligible citizens receive them.
A clear police report allows quicker passport dispatch, while adverse or delayed reports can halt the process. Thus, police verification directly influences both the decision and the timeline of passport issuance, reinforcing security and administrative integrity.
Historical Development of Police Verification Mode
The Passports Act of 1967 made police verification a key part of passport issuance in India. The system was manual. Passport offices sent Personal Particulars Forms by post to the state police headquarters. From there, forms went to local police stations. This paper-based process caused frequent delays due to slow mail and administrative backlog. Verification often took several weeks.
In the 2000s, the government launched the Passport Seva Project to modernize the system. By 2010, police verification requests were sent digitally.
The Passport Seva Police Clearance system allowed secure online exchange of reports between police and passport offices. By the mid-2010s, around 90 percent of police districts were connected. This removed most physical delays and improved coordination with Regional Passport Offices (RPOs).
In 2016 and 2017, the Ministry of External Affairs introduced post-verification mode. First-time applicants who submitted valid Aadhaar, PAN, or EPIC cards, along with a self-declaration (Annexure E or I), could get their passport before police verification. This change allowed faster delivery based on digital document trust. Police checks still followed, but after dispatch.
Document requirements were also reduced for groups like minors and single parents. These updates led to fewer verification cases and improved processing speed without changing the verification principle.
In 2022–2023, the mPassport Police App was launched. Police officers received tablets to complete on-site checks digitally. The new system reduced average verification time from two weeks to about five days.
Field data was submitted through the app, removing paperwork and delays. The process became fully digital from home visit to Police Verification Report (PVR) submission.
Need Expert Help on Your Passport Application?
Our passport agents handle forms, documents, and just one call away..
Police Verification Procedure for Indian Passport Applications
The police verification process starts after the passport application is accepted by a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or a Regional Passport Office (RPO). The entire procedure follows these official steps:
1. Request sent to police system
The RPO sends an electronic verification request to the police at the applicant’s current residential address. It includes personal details, uploaded documents, and jurisdiction data. The system uses the Know Your Police Station tool to direct the file to the right local police station.
2. File assigned to local station
The district police headquarters receives the request and forwards it to the local police station. If the area is digitally connected, this is done via portal. If not, printed forms are sent. A verification case is opened, and a field officer is assigned—usually from the Special Branch or a verification unit.
3. Residence visit and document check
A police officer visits the applicant’s home to confirm their identity and address. In some cases, the officer may also visit the applicant’s workplace. The applicant must be present with original documents like proof of address and proof of birth.
The officer may also ask neighbors to confirm residence and check for any negative background. Notes are recorded either on the mPassport Police App or on paper to be digitized later.
4. Criminal background check
The officer checks for criminal records, warrants, or adverse entries. This may involve local station logs, state crime records, or the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS). The check is done in parallel with the field visit or as part of the same action.
5. Report preparation and forwarding
The police station prepares the Police Verification Report (PVR). It is either marked as:
- Clear – all details match, no adverse records
- Adverse – applicant not found, or issues such as undisclosed criminal history
The signed report is reviewed at the district police level and sent electronically to the passport office. In some offline areas, it may be mailed.
6. Final decision by Passport Office
Once the RPO receives the PVR:
- If the mode is pre-verification and the report is clear, the passport is approved and sent.
- If the mode is post-verification, the passport may already be dispatched, and a clear report simply closes the loop.
- If the report is adverse, the RPO may put the application on hold, request more documents, or reject the passport.
- If a passport was issued under post-verification and the report is negative, the RPO can take action. This includes issuing a notice, or in serious cases, revoking the passport under the Passports Act.
Tracking Verification Status
Applicants can monitor the progress on the Passport Seva portal. Updates include:
- Police Verification Initiated
- Report Submitted by Police
- PVR Clear or Adverse
SMS and email alerts are also sent automatically. If the process is delayed beyond a few weeks, applicants are advised to follow up with the RPO or the local police station. The digital tracking system allows full visibility—from request initiation to report submission.
Verification Modes in Passport Issuance
The type of police verification required for a passport depends on the application category, supporting documents, and eligibility rules. The mode is selected by the Regional Passport Office (RPO) based on standard operating procedure.
Pre-issuance Police Verification
This is the default mode for most first-time applicants. The passport is not printed or dispatched until a clear Police Verification Report (PVR) is received from the police station.
- Used when identity or address details need confirmation
- Verification is completed before the passport is granted
- Typical for normal (non-expedited) applications
- Can take a few days to weeks depending on location
This mode ensures that only verified individuals receive passports. It offers high security but adds processing time.
Post-issuance Police Verification
In this mode, the passport is issued before the police report is received. The verification still happens but after delivery.
- Common in Tatkaal applications
- Also used for first-time applicants with valid Aadhaar, PAN, EPIC, and Annexure E
- Saves time by starting dispatch immediately
- If the later report is adverse, the passport may be held or revoked
This mode works on a trust model. The system assumes the documents are genuine and risk is low, but still confirms with a police check afterward.
No Police Verification (Exempted Cases)
Some applicants are exempt from police verification entirely if their identity is already confirmed through official channels. These include:
- Government employees with an Identity Certificate (Annexure A)
- Minors with valid-parent passports and Annexure D consent
- Renewal cases if the last passport had a clean police history and expired within the last 3 years
In these cases, the RPO may issue the passport within 1–3 working days without triggering verification. These are low-risk cases and account for a small percentage of total applicants. Exemptions are granted strictly as per official rules and at the discretion of the RPO.
Special Cases and Exemptions in Police Verification
Some passport applicants qualify for exemption from police verification or modified checks based on their category and submitted documents. These are policy-defined exceptions, not discretionary bypasses.
Government and PSU Employees
Applicants working in government departments, PSUs, or statutory bodies can skip pre-verification if they provide:
- An original Identity Certificate (Annexure A) signed by a competent officer – no police check needed.
- A No Objection Certificate (Annexure G) – passport is issued under post-verification.
The identity and address are treated as verified through official documentation.
Minors (Below 18 Years)
Police verification is usually waived if these conditions are met:
- One or both parents hold valid Indian passports
- Parental consent is given through Annexure D
For minors under 15, the passport is typically issued without any police visit. For ages 15–18, the same applies unless the case is unusual. The RPO may order a check if the application raises doubts.
Tatkaal Applications
Under the Tatkaal scheme, passports are issued within 1–3 working days:
- No police check is required before issue
- Police verification is done later (post-verification)
- Additional documents and higher fees are mandatory
Applicants must submit documents like a gazetted officer verification letter or an Annexure G (NOC). If the report later turns adverse, the passport can be withdrawn.
Passport Renewal Cases
Applicants renewing their passport may avoid police verification if:
- The last passport expired less than 3 years ago
- There are no changes in name or address
- No adverse police history exists
If the address changed or the old passport is too old, a new police check is triggered.
Applicants with Criminal Records
Those with pending cases, bail status, or adverse records are placed in pre-verification mode even if they qualify for post-verification otherwise.
- Court permission may be needed before passport approval
- The police verification reflects these conditions
- The application may be denied or held until clearance is confirmed
These cases are not exemptions—they require stricter checks under legal provisions.
Stakeholders and Agencies Involved in Police Verification
The police verification process for Indian passports involves multiple official bodies. Each stakeholder has a fixed role in the system, and coordination among them directly affects passport processing time and accuracy.
Applicant
- Must provide accurate information and valid documents
- Must be available during the police visit
- Responsible for truthfully declaring any criminal background
- Failure to comply can lead to an adverse Police Verification Report (PVR) or legal action
Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)
- Supervises passport issuance across India through the Central Passport Organization
- Issues policies and coordinates with state police
- Operates the Passport Seva Project, which includes the central IT system and verification flow
Regional Passport Office (RPO)
- Decides the verification mode (pre, post, or exempt)
- Sends the verification request to police
- Receives and evaluates the PVR
- May follow up in case of delay or adverse reporting
- Handles clarifications and communication with the applicant when needed
State Police Department
- Executes the address verification and background check
- The District Police Headquarters assigns the request to the correct police station
- The local police station verifies the applicant’s presence and documents
- The Special Branch or Local Intelligence Unit may handle criminal record checks
- Submits the final report to the Passport Office
Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)
- Accepts the initial passport application
- Verifies and forwards applicant documents
- Ensures police station data is correct
- Some centers have on-site police liaison officers to assist with jurisdiction queries
Technology Provider (TCS)
- Tata Consultancy Services manages the entire Passport Seva IT infrastructure
- Maintains systems like the PSP police portal and mPassport Police App
- Ensures real-time data flow between passport offices and police
- Supports tools for applicants such as the mPassport Seva app and status trackers
Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA)
- Coordinates with MEA on state police directives
- Oversees integration of police databases (e.g., CCTNS) with the passport system
- May intervene in cases involving state-level delays or interstate verifications
Each stakeholder’s function is critical to the system. A delay at any point—whether technical, procedural, or administrative—can affect the overall passport timeline. Continuous improvement, clear roles, and digital coordination remain essential to keeping the verification process efficient and secure.
Legal Framework for Police Verification in Passport Issuance
The legal basis for passport issuance in India comes from the Passports Act, 1967. It empowers passport authorities to deny or revoke a passport if:
- The applicant has pending court cases
- Issuing the passport affects national security or public interest
While the Act does not use the term “police verification” directly, it holds passport officers responsible for ensuring the applicant is eligible and safe to issue a passport to. This responsibility is carried out by verifying the applicant’s identity, address, and criminal background—typically through the local police.
Under Rule 14 of the Passport Rules, 1980, passport offices are authorized to verify applicant details. Police departments assist because of their access to local records and intelligence. This process has become standard practice, especially in pre-verification and post-verification modes.
Over the years, the Ministry of External Affairs has issued formal instructions allowing post-verification in certain cases and granting exemptions in others, such as:
- Minors with valid-parent passports
- Government employees with an Identity Certificate
- Renewals with clean past records
All applicants must sign a self-declaration in the passport form or Annexure E, confirming they have no pending criminal cases or false information. If that declaration is found untrue, the Passports Act allows the passport to be revoked or impounded, even after issuance, as long as due process is followed.
Challenges and Issues in Police Verification
The police verification stage in passport processing has several operational and user-facing challenges. These issues affect turnaround time, applicant experience, and consistency of delivery.
Verification delays and regional backlogs
In many districts, especially rural or high-volume zones, verification cases build up due to staff shortages. The timeline, ideally under three weeks, often stretches to several months. This delay directly impacts applicants in pre-verification mode, pushing back passport issuance.
Uneven performance across states
Some city police units finish verifications within days. In contrast, other districts consistently take longer due to limited infrastructure, heavy workload, or slower tech adoption. Applicants face longer waits depending on their location.
Reports of bribery and facilitation fees
Some applicants have reported being asked to pay unofficial amounts during the home visit. A few officers hint that payment can speed up clearance. These isolated incidents harm public trust. The government encourages users to report any such behavior. But private, in-home interactions still leave room for misuse.
Missing or incorrect applicant data
If an applicant shifts address recently or shares an address that’s hard to locate (e.g., a new colony or informal settlement), police may not find the person. In such cases, the report is marked “not found” or incomplete. Minor issues like spelling mismatches between police and passport records can also trigger an adverse Police Verification Report without the applicant being at fault.
Applicant not home at visit time
The police often visit during working hours. If the applicant is out, the officer may need to return or, in some cases, file a “not traceable” report. There is usually no fixed visit time or contact method to coordinate. If the applicant has moved cities, cross-jurisdiction checks can cause further delays.
Low public awareness
Many first-time applicants are unsure what to expect. Some think a home police visit implies trouble. Others do not know which documents to show. A few believe they must offer payment. Lack of public education causes confusion and stress. The Passport Seva portal now includes guidance, but gaps still remain.
Still Confused About the Process? Talk to a Passport Agent Today
Reforms and Digital Initiatives in Police Verification
Recent reforms in passport verification focus on faster processing, digital integration, and better transparency. These changes improve both efficiency and accountability across police and passport systems.
Digital integration with police systems
Most police districts are now digitally linked with the Passport Seva Programme. Requests and reports move electronically instead of by post. This cuts delays and improves reliability.
Police checks are also being integrated with the Crime and Criminal Tracking Network & Systems (CCTNS). This national crime database allows instant background screening and flags criminal records linked to the applicant, even across states.
mPassport Police App deployment
The mPassport Police App, launched nationwide in 2022–2023, allows officers to complete field checks using a tablet or mobile device. The officer:
- Gets the case on the device
- Navigates to the address via GPS
- Uploads the report with digital signature, photo, or geo-tag
The app sends data instantly to the Passport Seva system, cutting out paperwork. This reform has brought the average verification time down to under five days in many cities.
Real-time status tracking for applicants
The Passport Seva Portal and mPassport Seva app show live status updates to applicants, such as:
- “Police Verification completed”
- “Report sent to RPO on [date]”
This transparency reduces confusion and delays. Some state police portals also allow tracking by file number.
Standard timelines and monitoring
The Ministry of External Affairs has fixed a 21-day verification timeline. Reviews and rankings by state help identify and fix delays. Several states now average under a week for verifications after adopting the app and digital flow.
Integration with national ID databases
Systems like DigiLocker and Aadhaar are now linked to the Passport Seva system. These allow paperless submission of verified ID documents. Police can rely on these digital copies without needing physical checks.
There are discussions on using the National Population Register or other data sources for auto-validation of ID, so that the field officer focuses only on residence and character verification.
Passport Seva 2.0 and e-passports
The upcoming Passport Seva 2.0 upgrade will bring further automation. Features include:
- Electronic chip-enabled e-passports with embedded identity and possible criminal history
- Faster background checks for low-risk renewals
- Use of postal verification in simple cases
This model frees police resources for complex verifications while keeping the system secure.
Police training and capacity building
The MEA is conducting regular training for police on:
- Using the mPassport Police App
- Logging into the portal securely
- Submitting accurate and timely reports
Feedback from field officers is used to improve the app interface.
Anti-corruption measures
Steps taken to stop bribery include:
- Public notices stating no fees are required for police checks
- Complaint channels to report any illegal demands
- Digital time-stamping of officer actions for traceability
As tracking improves, the scope for corruption narrows.
Ongoing feedback and improvement
The system is under constant review. Data on pending cases helps identify problem areas. Some states have tested outsourcing address checks to postal staff, but police continue to lead verification due to their law enforcement role.