How To Renew Indian Passport in Sweden
The Indian passport ranks 80th globally and gives you visa-free access to 62 countries as of 2024. You need to know how to renew your Indian passport while living in Sweden to keep this important travel document valid.
The Embassy of India in Stockholm makes passport renewal simple. You can choose to visit in person or send your application by mail. Getting your renewed passport usually takes 1 to 3 weeks. The best part is that you can apply for renewal up to a year before your passport expires or even three years after it has expired.
The embassy processes passport renewals for Indian citizens who live in Sweden and Latvia to help you keep your essential travel documents current.
Requirements for Indian Passport Renewal in Sweden
The Embassy of India in Stockholm handles passport renewals for Indian citizens who live in Sweden and Latvia. Here's what you need to know about starting your Indian passport renewal process.
Eligibility criteria for passport renewal
You'll need a valid Indian passport with at least one year left before expiry to qualify for renewal in Sweden. You also need to be a resident of Sweden with a current residence permit. Your application will require fresh police verification if your passport expired more than three years ago.
Validity considerations for your current passport
Indian passports are valid for 10 years from their issue date. You can start the renewal process up to one year before it expires. Since most foreign missions need passport validity of six months to one year for visa issuance, it's smart to renew early.
Here's what you should know about specific cases:
- Passports expired over three years need extra police verification
- You can apply one year before your passport expires
- Damaged passports or those with no empty pages need immediate renewal
Different renewal options available in Sweden
You can renew your passport at the Embassy of India in Stockholm through two main methods:
- In-Person Application
- Book an appointment at the Stockholm embassy
- Submit your documents and complete verification in person
- This works best if you prefer face-to-face interaction
- Mail-In Application
- Send your application through registered mail
- Mail everything to: Kornhamnstorg 4, Box 2131, 10314, Stockholm
- Don't forget to include a self-addressed return registered envelope
The current processing time runs between 4-6 weeks. Applications left incomplete after 20 calendar days will come back unprocessed. The embassy uses the Passport Seva System - a platform built for Indians abroad - to process all applications.
The embassy only takes bank transfers as payment. They won't accept cash or checks at the Visa/Passport/OCI Counter. Here are the current fees:
- 36-page booklet: SEK 792
- 60-page booklet: SEK 1052
Your passport application form should include both your Indian and Swedish/Latvian addresses. This will help keep communication smooth throughout the process.
Essential Documents Required for Indian Passport Renewal
Getting the right documents is a significant first step to renew your Indian passport in Sweden. The Embassy of India in Stockholm has strict documentation requirements that will give a smooth renewal process.
Primary identification documents
You need to submit your current passport with self-attested copies of the first and last pages. You also need copies of pages that contain observations or endorsements. The embassy requires additional verification if your passport has been expired for more than three years.
Address proof requirements for NRIs in Sweden
NRIs in Sweden must provide proof of both local and Indian addresses. The embassy accepts:
- Latest Personbevis in English from Skatteverket
- Self-attested copy of Residence Permit or Work permit (front & back)
- Mottagningskvitto from Migrationsverket (if visa extension pending)
- Letter from employer/institute confirming employment/study status
Photo specifications and guidelines
Your passport photos must follow these specifications:
- Size: 2 inch x 2 inch (51mm x 51mm)
- Background: Plain white with contrasting colored clothes
- Face coverage: 70-80% of photo area
- Head position: Centered, showing full face from crown to chin
- Expression: Neutral with both ears visible
- Quality: Clear, continuous-tone print on thin photo paper
Additional supporting documents
Some situations need extra documentation:
Name changes after marriage require:
- Marriage certificate (self-attested)
- Spouse's passport copy
Visa extension cases need:
- Copy of expired permit
- Employer/institution confirmation letter
Your application must include payment proof - SEK 792 for a 36-page booklet or SEK 1052 for a 60-page booklet. You should also include a self-addressed envelope with a PostNord waybill to receive your documents.
Note that all photocopies need self-attestation and should follow the embassy checklist order. The documentation requirements might change, so check the embassy website before submission to get the latest requirements.
Step-by-Step Application Process for Passport Renewal
Planning to renew your Indian passport? The Passport Seva Portal offers an online application process that will give a hassle-free experience. Let's walk through each step.
Create an account on Passport Seva Portal
Your first step is to register an account at embassy.passportindia.gov.in. The system will send you an email verification link. Log in to access the application portal after verification. A laptop or desktop computer works better than a mobile device.
Fill out the online application form
Log in and select "Apply for Ordinary passport – Application for fresh passport/Re-issue of Passport". Pick "Re-issue of passport" as your application type. You need to select "Change in personal particular" and then "address" if you're updating your address. Your application must include both Indian and Swedish/Latvian addresses.
Schedule an appointment with the Indian Embassy
Print your completed application on white paper, using only one side. The next step is booking an appointment through the embassy's online system. The current processing time takes 4-6 weeks. Applications left incomplete beyond 20 calendar days will return unprocessed.
Payment methods
Swedish residents should use these banking details:
- SEK Account: 5277 1103 311
- IBAN: SE10 5000 0000 0527 7110 3311
- SWIFT: ESSESESS
- Bank: SEB
Bank Giro number 5816-4930 is also available. Your payment must include:
- Service requested
- Applicant name
- Mobile/telephone number
Attach your payment proof to the application package. Send all documents by REK/registered mail to the provided embassy address.
Submit Your Application and Post-Application Procedures
Your final step starts after completing the application. You need to submit documents and track your renewal progress. The Embassy of India in Stockholm lets you submit your application in different ways.
In-person submission at the Indian Embassy in Stockholm
Book your appointment through the embassy's online system to submit documents in person. Visit Kornhamnstorg 4, Stockholm with your completed application form and supporting documents. The embassy team will check your documents and process your application. Right now, processing takes about 4-6 weeks.
Mail-in application process and requirements
Pack your documents safely and mail them through REK/registered post to: Kornhamnstorg 4, Box 2131, 10314, Stockholm. Make sure you include:
- Completed application form with your signature in blue/black ink
- Required supporting documents
- Payment receipt
- Self-addressed return REK/registered envelope
Create a waybill through Post Nord's portal (https://portal.postnord.com/skickadirekt) for return delivery. You can also email the to ppt.stockholm@mea.gov.in.
Tracking your passport renewal status
Check your application status on the Passport Seva portal. The system tells you about:
- Original processing
- Document verification
- Police verification (if needed)
- Passport printing
- Dispatch status
Collection of your renewed passport
You can get your passport in two ways:
For in-person applications: The embassy will notify you when your passport is ready for pickup from the Stockholm office.
For mail-in applications: Your new passport will reach your registered address through your self-addressed envelope. Track your return package through PostNord's system.
Missing documents can delay the process. The embassy starts counting from the day they receive all required documents. Check your application package really well before you send it.
Conclusion
Renewing your Indian passport in Sweden needs careful planning and attention to detail. The process might seem complex initially, but you can manage it well by following the embassy's guidelines. You have the flexibility to choose between in-person and mail-in applications based on your situation and location.
The best approach is to begin your renewal process early, at least one year before expiry. Most countries require passport validity between six months to one year. Your application could face return after 20 calendar days if incomplete, so check all documents thoroughly before submission.
A successful passport renewal depends on complete documentation and correct procedures. The Embassy of India in Stockholm processes applications efficiently, with current timelines of 4-6 weeks. You can track your application status through the Passport Seva portal and wait for notification to collect your renewed passport.
Frequently Asked Questions: Renew Indian Passport in Sweden
Q1. How long does it take to renew an Indian passport in Sweden?
The process typically takes 4-6 weeks from the time of application submission. However, it's advisable to start the renewal process early, ideally one year before your passport expires.
Q2. Can I apply for Indian passport renewal online while in Sweden?
Yes, you can initiate the process online through the Passport Seva Portal. However, you'll need to either mail your documents or visit the Indian Embassy in Stockholm in person to complete the application.
Q3. What documents are required for Indian passport renewal in Sweden?
Essential documents include your current passport, proof of address in both Sweden and India, passport-sized photographs, and proof of fee payment. Additional documents may be required based on your specific situation.
Q4. How much does it cost to renew an Indian passport in Sweden?
The fee for a 36-page passport is SEK 792, while a 60-page passport costs SEK 1052. Payment must be made via bank transfer, as the embassy does not accept cash or checks.
Q5. Can I travel to India if my passport is expiring soon?
It's recommended to have at least six months of validity on your passport for international travel. If your passport is expiring within six months, it's best to renew it before traveling to India or any other country.
