Tatkal vs Normal Passport: Difference, Fees & Processing Time (2025 Guide)

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Getting a passport is an essential step for international travel—whether it's for studying abroad, tourism, business, medical emergencies, or job opportunities. In India, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) provides two primary application options: Tatkal Passport and Normal Passport. While both serve the same purpose, they vary in terms of processing time, fees, document requirements, and verification procedures.

If you're confused about which one to choose, this detailed 2025 guide explains Tatkal vs Normal Passport differences, fees, eligibility, processing timelines, and which option is best for your situation.

What Is a Normal Passport?​

A Normal Passport follows the standard application process. It includes regular police verification and has a normal processing timeline. This is the most commonly used option for Indian citizens and is suitable for applicants without urgent travel needs.

Key Features of a Normal Passport:

• Standard processing
• Lower fees
• Full police verification
• Suitable for planned or non-urgent travel
• Available for fresh applications and renewals

What Is a Tatkal Passport?​

A Tatkal Passport is a fast-track passport service for people who urgently need passport issuance. This category provides quicker processing and shorter delivery time compared to the normal procedure.

Key Features of a Tatkal Passport:​

• Fast-track process
• Higher fees
• Police verification may be done after passport issuance
• Ideal for last-minute travel or emergencies
• Quick appointment and faster delivery

Tatkal vs Normal Passport: Key Differences​

Here is a clear comparison between Tatkal and Normal Passport services:

1. Processing Time​

Passport Type​	Processing Time (Approx.)​
Normal Passport	7–21 working days (depending on police verification)
Tatkal Passport	1–3 working days (after appointment)

Tatkal applications are given priority and processed much faster than normal ones.

2. Fees Difference (2025)​

Tatkal passport fees are significantly higher than normal passport fees.

Passport Type​	36-Page Booklet​	60-Page Booklet​
Normal Passport	Approx. ₹1,500	Approx. ₹2,000
Tatkal Passport	Approx. ₹3,500 – ₹4,000	Approx. ₹4,000 – ₹5,500

Note: Fees may vary slightly depending on age, renewal, and application type.

3. Police Verification Type​

Passport Type​	Police Verification​
Normal Passport	Mandatory before issuance
Tatkal Passport	Often done after issuance (post-verification)

Tatkal is designed for urgent situations; Therefore police verification may be completed later.

4. Appointment Availability​

• Normal Passport: Appointment slots are usually available but may require waiting during peak seasons.
• Tatkal Passport: Reserved priority slots available daily for urgent needs.

5. Eligibility​

Not every applicant qualifies for a Tatkal passport. Certain cases may require additional verification or may not be allowed under Tatkal.

Tatkal Passport NOT Allowed For:​

• Pending court cases
• Criminal records
• Incomplete documents
• Mismatched details or identity issues

Normal passport is open to all eligible Indian citizens.

Documents Required for Normal Passport​

To apply for a Normal Passport, you generally need:

• Aadhaar Card
• PAN Card
• Birth Certificate (for minors)
• Address Proof (Voter ID, Electricity Bill, Rental Agreement)
• Educational documents (if required)
• Old Passport (in case of renewal)

Police verification is mandatory before issuance.

Documents Required for Tatkal Passport​

Tatkal applications need additional identification and verification documents.

Mandatory Documents Include:​

• Proof of Identity (Aadhaar, PAN, Driving License)
• Address Proof
• Old Passport (if renewing)
• Annexure “F” (verification certificate from a gazetted officer)
• Annexure “I” (self-declaration)
• 3 photo ID documents from the approved list

The document list may vary depending on your situation.

Tatkal vs Normal Passport Processing: Step-by-Step​

Normal Passport Process​

1. Register on Passport Seva Portal
2. Fill out the online application
3. Pay standard fees
4. Book appointment at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)
5. Attend appointment and submit biometrics
6. Police verification
7. Passport printing & dispatch

Normal passports take longer due to mandatory pre-verification.

Tatkal Passport Process​

1. Register on Passport Seva Portal
2. Fill Tatkal application form
3. Pay the higher Tatkal fee
4. Book priority appointment
5. Submit Tatkal documents
6. Biometric submission
7. Passport printing & fast dispatch

Since verification may be done later, the passport is issued much faster.

Which Passport Is Better for You? Tatkal or Normal?​

Choose Normal Passport If:

• You are planning travel months in advance
• You want to save on higher fees
• You are applying for minor children
• Your documents are simple and straightforward

Choose Tatkal Passport If:

• You have last-minute travel (job, visa, emergency)
• Your passport is lost/damaged and you need a quick reissue
• You can afford the additional fees
• Your documents are complete and verification-ready

Common Myths About Tatkal Passport​

Myth 1: Anyone can apply for Tatkal
Not true. Applicants must meet specific eligibility conditions.

Myth 2: Tatkal does not require any verification
Verification may happen after issuance.

Myth 3: Tatkal passport is different in appearance
No, both Tatkal and Normal passports look exactly the same.

Final Comparison Table: Tatkal vs Normal Passport​

Features​	Normal Passport​	Tatkal Passport​
Processing Speed	Slow	Fast
Fees	Low	High
Appointment Priority	Regular	Priority
Police Verification	Pre-issuance	Post-issuance possible
Best For	Planned travel	Emergency travel

Conclusion

Choosing between Tatkal vs Normal Passport depends entirely on your travel urgency and budget. If you have time and want to save costs, the Normal Passport process is ideal. However, if you need a passport urgently—whether for a sudden job opportunity, emergency travel, or quick visa application—Tatkal Passport is the best option.

Both passport types are legitimate, secure, and issued by the Government of India with proper verification. Make sure your documents are complete to avoid delays.

Frequently Asked Questions​

Q.1. What is the main difference between a Tatkal and Normal Passport?​

The main difference lies in Processing time and fees. A Normal Passport follows standard processing and costs less, while a Tatkal Passport is processed faster but comes with higher charges.

Q.2. How long does it take to get a Tatkal Passport?​

A Tatkal Passport is issued within 1–3 working days after your appointment, making it usually ideal for urgent travel needs.

Q.3. What is the processing time for a Normal Passport?​

A Normal Passport typically takes 7–21 working days, depending on police verification and appointment availability.

Q.4. Is Tatkal Passport more expensive?​

Yes. Tatkal fees are significantly higher due to the priority processing. The fee difference can range from ₹ 2,000 to ₹ 3,500 or more , depending on the booklet type.

Q.5. Do I need police verification for a Tatkal Passport?​

Police verification may happen after the passport is issued. For Normal Passports, verification is mandatory before issuance.