Passport Office in Kollam

Nestled along the picturesque Malabar Coast of Kerala, Kollam is famed for its rich history and cultural heritage. In addition to the flourishing cashew processing industry and breathtaking attractions such as Kollam Beach and Palaruvi Falls, the city also serves as a hub for international travel needs. For its residents, the passport office in Kollam plays a prominent role in enabling seamless overseas journeys.

Whether applying for a fresh passport, renewing an existing one, or even procuring a police clearance certificate, the Passport Seva Kendra in Kollam (PSK Kollam) ensures efficient and prompt services. Scheduling a passport office Kollam appointment is the first step in this endeavour.

Types of Passport Office in Kollam

• PSK Kollam: Kollam is home to the Passport Seva Kendra, which serves as the primary facility for obtaining passport-related services in the city. It is responsible for handling fresh passport applications, renewals, and more.
• For further assistance, applicants could also approach the Regional Passport Office (RPO) in Thiruvananthapuram. The RPO in Thiruvananthapuram was established in 1992 and is located in Kaithamukku. It addresses the passport needs of Thiruvananthapuram, Pathanamthitta, and Kollam districts.

Passport Office Kollam Contact Number and Address

PSK Kollam

Public Grievances Cell

Services Offered by the Passport Office Kollam

• Document Verification: All applications that the RPO Kollam receives undergo a thorough verification process to ensure accuracy and compliance with government regulations.
• Tatkal Passport Service: To address urgent travel needs, the institution provides Tatkal services with expedited passport processing and minimal delays.
• Passport Renewal: The office provides renewal services for passports that have expired or are nearing expiry, thereby facilitating uninterrupted travel capabilities.
• Issuance of Fresh Passports: First-time applicants can apply for a new passport with the assistance of efficient passport services.
• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC): Individuals can procure their PCC from PSK Kollam, thereby unlocking opportunities for employment abroad, migration or long-term visas.
• Updating Personal Details: Applicants have the option of applying for updates in personal details such as name, address, or marital status in their passports.
• Reissuance of Passports: Lost or damaged passports, as well as passports that have been fully used can be reissued through a streamlined process.
• Online Services: Applicants can schedule their Kollam passport office appointment online and also have the option of form submission and application status tracking from the official portal.
• Printing and Dispatch: The final step in the passport process is the printing and dispatching, which ensures timely delivery to the applicants.

Documents Necessary to Obtain/Renew an Indian Passport

• Proof of Address: Aadhaar card, utility bills such as water bill, electricity bill, rental agreement, etc.
• Proof of Date of Birth: Birth certificate, PAN card, Aadhaar card, or driving license.
• Photo ID Proof: Voter ID, PAN card, Aadhaar card, or driving license.
• Passport-Size Photographs: Two recent passport-size photos (2 inches by 2 inches) with a white background.
• Old Passport: If the applicant is applying for a renewal, their old passport is a mandatory document for renewal applications. Applicants will also need to include self-attested copies of key pages.
• Additional Documents: Specific cases may require additional paperwork as per the Passport Seva website.

Things to Know Before Applying for Passports at Regional Passport Office Kollam

• Verify the Application Category: Applicants should check which category their passport application falls under (for instance standard or Tatkal processing) as this influences the timelines as well as the documentation.
• Carry Originals for Verification: Although applicants will have to submit photocopies of their documents, they must also submit originals for on-the-spot verification during the Kollam passport office appointment.
• Eligibility for Tatkal Services: Although Tatkal services are available for urgent travel, applicants must check whether they are eligible for it before applying.
• Time Management: To avoid any delays because of crowds or unexpected queries, it is important to arrive early for your passport office Kollam appointment.
• Accepted Payment Modes: Applicants must acquaint themselves with the accepted methods of payment. For instance, cash is not always permitted.
• Contact for Queries: Applicants can save the Kollam passport office number to get real-time updates on procedures, documents, or application status.
• Track Application Online: Individuals can track the status of their application from the official Passport Seva portal.

How to Apply for a Passport at the Passport Office in Kollam?

Passport Office Kollam: Online Process

• Step 1: Visit the official Passport Seva portal and register as a new user. Then, verify your email or phone number with the link provided during registration.
• Step 2: Then, log in on the website and select "Apply for New Passport/Re-Issue of Passport".
• Step 3: Duly fill out the application form, ensure all details are accurate and upload the necessary documents.
• Step 4: Pay the relevant fee online and then book your appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra in Kollam.
• Step 5: On the stipulated date and time, visit RPO Kollam with your documents to complete the verification and submit your biometric data.
• Step 6: With the help of the receipt and the details, track the status of your application and contact the Kollam passport office contact number for assistance if required.

Passport Office Kollam: Alternate Process

• Step 1: Download and print the application form from the official Passport Seva website under the "Forms and Affidavits" section.
• Step 2: Carefully fill out the application form and ensure all the details are accurate.
• Step 3: Upload the filled-out form along with the essential documents on the website by logging into your account.
• Step 4: To schedule your appointment at the PSK Kollam, make the payment online.
• Step 5: Visit the RPO Kollam, submit your form, and complete biometric verification and police verification.
• Step 6: Track the status of your application using the receipt and call the passport office Kollam phone number for updates if needed.

Tips for a Successful Passport Application

• Double-Check Documentation: Applicants need to make sure all submitted documents are complete, up-to-date, and match the details in their application.
• Photograph Guidelines: Carry two to three passport-size photographs that align with the prescribed guidelines, such as background colour and dimensions.
• Name Consistency: To prevent rejection of your passport application, ensure that your name is consistent across all submitted documents.
• Book Appointments Early: Schedule your appointment well in advance to secure a convenient slot and avoid last-minute delays.
• Track Your Application: Check the status of your application using the Passport Seva portal. If there are any discrepancies in the application, address them promptly.
• Contact for Assistance: Save the Kollam passport office customer care number for real-time support with queries or unexpected issues.
• Carry Supporting Documents: Keep additional proof of identification and photocopies in case extra verification is needed at the PSK Kollam.

How to Track a Passport Application at RPO Kollam?

• Visit the official Passport Seva portal. On the homepage, click on the "Track Application Status" tab.
• Select the type of application then input your application reference number along with your birth date.
• Click on the button that reads "Track Status" to view the current status of your passport application at RPO Kollam.

How to Register a Grievance at the Regional Passport Office Kollam

• Visit the official Passport Seva portal and look for the "Feedback and Grievance" section under "Before You Apply."
• Opt for "Grievance/Feedback" and click on the shared link to register your grievance.
• Accurately fill out the requested information and outline your issue in the provided description box. Click "Submit" to register your grievance.

Conclusion

With proper preparation and understanding of the process, it becomes easy to apply for a fresh passport or renewal at the passport office in Kollam. However, once you receive your passport, don't forget to plan for unforeseeable travel disruptions with reliable travel insurance.

Companies such as Reliance General Insurance offer comprehensive travel insurance plans online to safeguard journeys from unpleasant mishaps such as lost passports, misplaced luggage, medical emergencies, and more. So, the next time you plan a trip, make a checklist of all travel essentials -​ passport, flight tickets, visas and reliable travelling insurance.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

• What are the acceptable reasons to apply for a Tatkal passport?

  Individuals can apply for a Tatkal passport at PSK Kollam if they need to travel urgently for work, medical emergencies, or personal reasons. Or if their passport is lost or damaged and needs immediate replacement.

• Can I reschedule my passport appointment if I can't appear for my in-person appointment?

  Yes, you can reschedule your appointments two more times in case you miss your initial appointment.

• How can I track my passport application?

  Applicants can stay updated on the status of their passport via the Passport Seva website using the application reference number.