Passport applications get rejected or delayed more often than you would think. Most of the time it is not a big issue — just a small detail that could have been avoided. Here are the real mistakes people make and how to fix them.
Their name is different on Aadhaar, 10th marksheet, and birth certificate. Aadhaar says "Rahul Sharma" but marksheet says "Rahul Kumar Sharma". The system flags this as a mismatch.
Before applying, check that your name is exactly the same on all documents you plan to submit. If there is a mismatch, update the incorrect document first (Aadhaar is the easiest to update online).
They type their current address in the form but submit an old address proof document (like a utility bill from a previous address).
The address you enter in the form must match the address on your proof document exactly. If you moved recently, update your Aadhaar address first or use a recent utility bill (not older than 3 months).
After the PSK visit, police come to verify the address. The applicant is not home, or nobody at the address knows them. This is the #1 cause of delays.
After your PSK visit, stay available at the address you provided. Inform your family or neighbors that police may visit. If police do not visit within 2-3 days, proactively visit your local police station with document copies.
Anyone who has passed 10th class should select "Non-ECR" category. Many people skip this or select ECR by mistake. Their passport then shows "Emigration Check Required" — causing problems when traveling to certain countries for work.
If you have passed 10th class or higher, select "Non-ECR" and carry your 10th marksheet to the PSK. If your existing passport has ECR, apply for reissue to get it changed to Non-ECR.
They carry correct documents to the PSK but forget to self-attest (sign) the photocopies. The counter rejects their submission.
Self-attest every photocopy — sign at the bottom of each page with your full name and date. Do this before going to the PSK.
They print the e-Aadhaar PDF and bring it to the PSK. e-Aadhaar printout is not accepted at PSK for passport applications.
Carry the original physical Aadhaar card (the PVC card or the letter from UIDAI). If you do not have the physical card, order one from the UIDAI website before your appointment.
They select a PSK or RPO that does not serve their area/jurisdiction. The application gets bounced.
When registering, the portal asks for your Passport Office. Select the one that covers your district. The portal usually suggests the correct one based on your address.
Photo has a colored background, shadows on face, or is cropped incorrectly. Photo is rejected at the PSK or during upload.
Use a plain white background. Face should occupy 80-85% of the frame. No shadows, no glasses, no headwear (except religious). Size: 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm. For upload: 630 x 810 pixels, JPEG, under 250 KB.
They bring only photocopies to the PSK. Originals are mandatory for verification at the counter.
Carry both originals and self-attested photocopies of every document you selected in the online form. The PSK officer will verify originals and keep the photocopies.
For a minor's passport, they do not provide both parents' details or forget the required annexure when only one parent is applying.
Provide both parents' names and passport details (if available). If only one parent is applying, submit Annexure D (declaration by the applying parent). In case of divorce/separation, carry the court custody order.
They close the browser without noting the Application Reference Number (ARN). Cannot resume the application or book appointment later.
Write down or screenshot the ARN as soon as it appears after submitting family details. You need it for everything — payment, appointment, tracking, and at the PSK.
Government employees submit the application without the NOC (No Objection Certificate) or Identity Certificate from their department. Application gets held up.
Get the NOC, Identity Certificate (Annexure B), and forwarding letter from your department before starting the application. Carry originals to the PSK.