Mumbai passport seekers: Walk in without appointment if application pending over 45 days

The Regional Passport Office (RPO) in Mumbai has announced that applicants whose passport applications have been pending for more than 45 days can now visit the office without a prior online appointment. The move aims to address delays and provide relief to residents awaiting their documents.

According to an official statement, the number of pending days will be calculated from the date of submission of the application. Those eligible can walk into the Videsh Bhavan office on any working day except Wednesdays, between 9 am and 11 am.

The walk-in facility is available for specific categories: diplomatic and official passport holders seeking re-dispatch of passports or police clearance certificates (PCC) that were returned as undelivered; those surrendering their Indian passport upon acquiring foreign citizenship; and individuals requesting closure of a pending passport application. The RPO clarified that applicants in these categories can avail of the service regardless of their application date.

This announcement comes as the Mumbai passport office handles a high volume of applications, with many residents reporting delays beyond the usual processing time. The RPO has not specified a timeline for how long this walk-in arrangement will remain in effect. Officials urge applicants to carry all relevant documents and proof of application pending for over 45 days.

The Ministry of External Affairs operates Videsh Bhavan as a key hub for diplomatic and passport services in Mumbai. The walk-in option is expected to reduce the burden on the online appointment system and expedite resolution for long-pending cases.