Quick answer
Tatkaal is a premium, faster Indian passport service on Passport Seva. With Tatkaal, the passport is usually dispatched in 1–3 working days of the PSK visit, before police verification completes. It costs more than the normal track and needs an Annexure (verification certificate) for some cases.
Key takeaways
- Tatkaal dispatches in ~1–3 working days from the PSK visit.
- Police verification may happen after dispatch.
- Higher fee than the normal track.
- Some categories need an Annexure-A verification certificate.
- Not available for every case (e.g., certain criminal-record or adverse-history situations).
Summary
| Field | Value |
|---|---|
| Processing speed | ~1–3 working days (dispatch) |
| Fee (fresh 36p, adult) | ₹3,500 |
| Fee (fresh 60p, adult) | ₹4,000 |
| Verification | Often post-issuance |
| Annexure needed | Annexure-A for some categories |
Eligibility
Who can use Tatkaal
- Most first-time and reissue applicants with urgent travel.
- Applicants able to pay the premium fee.
- Some cases require an Annexure-A verification certificate from a verifying officer.
Required documents
Standard documents
Same ID, address and DOB proof as normal.
Annexure-A (if required)
Verification certificate from a gazetted officer on the MEA format.
Old passport
For reissue — surrendered at the PSK.
Step-by-step process
- 1
Choose Tatkaal
While applying, select the Tatkaal processing speed.
- 2
Arrange Annexure-A if needed
Confirm whether your category needs the verification certificate.
- 3
Pay the premium fee
Tatkaal fee is higher; pay online.
- 4
Visit PSK
Carry originals plus Annexure-A if applicable.
- 5
Dispatch
Passport dispatched in ~1–3 working days; verification follows.
Timeline
Dispatch
~1–3 working days from PSK visit.
Police verification
Usually after dispatch; any adverse report can affect the passport later.
Cost breakdown
| Application | Normal | Tatkaal |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh 36 pages (adult) | ₹2,000 | ₹3,500 |
| Fresh 60 pages (adult) | ₹2,500 | ₹4,000 |
| Minor | ₹1,500 | ₹3,000 |
Fees are indicative and change — verify the current schedule on Passport Seva.
Pros & cons
Pros
- Fast dispatch for urgent travel
- Verification after dispatch saves time
- Available across PSKs
Cons
- Higher fee
- Annexure-A can be hard to arrange quickly
- Adverse verification can still cause later action
Common scenarios
Visa interview next week
Tatkaal can get the passport in time, but confirm the embassy accepts a passport issued under Tatkaal with pending verification.
No gazetted officer contact
If Annexure-A is required and you cannot arrange it, choose Normal or seek help from a Passport Seva facilitation desk.
Common mistakes
- Assuming Tatkaal skips verification entirely
- Not arranging Annexure-A in time
- Choosing Tatkaal when Normal would suffice
Expert tips
- Book the earliest PSK slot — Tatkaal speed depends on appointment availability too.
- Keep travel proof ready in case the PSK asks for urgency justification.
- Renew early so you never need Tatkaal under pressure.
Frequently asked questions
How fast is a Tatkaal passport?
It is usually dispatched in 1–3 working days of the PSK visit, before police verification completes.
Does Tatkaal skip police verification?
No. Verification usually happens after dispatch; an adverse report can still affect the passport.
What is the Tatkaal fee for an adult?
₹3,500 for a 36-page booklet and ₹4,000 for a 60-page booklet (indicative — verify on Passport Seva).
Is Annexure-A mandatory for Tatkaal?
For some categories, yes. Confirm whether your case needs the verification certificate before booking.
Related passport guides
Get your passport sorted with Krosz
Prepare your documents, make a compliant passport photo and check your readiness — all free, in your browser.