MEA launches mobile app for passport services

The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has launched mPassport Seva, a lightweight, easy-to-use mobile application (app) that will allow an user to register, apply, pay and schedule appointment for passport related services. The service was launched on the occasion of the sixth Passport Seva Divas that was observed by the MEA on June 26-27, 2018. The new app will support new user registration, existing user login, application for passport services, online payment, scheduling of appointment, besides helping users to find out about location of Passport Centers, fee details, required documentations and procedures, application status, relevant contact information and other information. Users will also be able to track the status of their passport applications as well as delivery using file number and date of birth. Citizens living overseas can find out relevant information about the Missions/Posts abroad.

The app was launched by External Affairs Minister Sushma Swaraj. Citizens using the mPassport Seva App – available on Android and iOS platforms – will not require access to a computer and printer to apply for passport services. The app will integrate all procedures of passport application on one platform, including obtaining of Police Clearance Certificate. Currently, Indian passports are issued from nearly 100 passport offices across the nation as well as from over 160 Indian diplomatic missions abroad. mPassport Seva will considerably improve efficiency in passport-related services and comes as part of Government of India’s ‘Digital India’ initiative that seeks to make Government services available to citizens electronically by improved online infrastructure and increased Internet connectivity. Such measures has been bolstered by India’s growing internet user base which crossed 500 million in June 2018.

Improved cultural and diplomatic relations as well as trade and investment ties has led to a spike in movement of Indian citizens around the world. At end 2017, there were around 31 million overseas Indians spread across more than 200 countries. India continues to remain the largest receiver of inward remittances in the world, thanks to the nation’s zealous international diaspora. The nation is estimated to have received more than US$65 billion in 2017 through inbound money transfers, according to the World Bank. Additionally, after China, India is the second largest contributor to the annual international student traffic. On the other hand, the exchange has also helped in increasing foreign tourist arrivals (FTA) into India that recorded a year-on-year growth of nearly 16 per cent to 10.2 million, during 2017. The FTA growth has also been boosted by MEA initiatives to simplify the application of e-tourist visas.

For further information visit the Passport Portal at www.passportindia.gov.in