How to Find Your File Number on a Passport - Complete Guide

What is a File Number on a Passport?

A unique identifier, the file number on a passport helps in following the status of your passport application. You can usually find it on the last page of the passport booklet. This number is utilised by authorities to manage and refer to your file, especially during passport renewals or when updating your information. This is not to be interpreted as your actual passport number.

➜ What is the layout of the file number in a passport application?

• The structure is formed by combining letters with numbers.
• The format usually looks like this: XXXXYYYYYYYY, where XXXX represents a series of letters and YYYYYYYY represents a sequence of numbers.

For example, a file number might look like ABCD12345678. You can locate it on the receipt or acknowledgment slip received after submitting your passport application.

➜ What does a file number signify in connection with passports?

• Tracking Applications: It provides a way for authorities to manage and track the status of your passport application throughout its processing.
• Reference: It provides a unique way to reference your application file, making it easier for authorities to find your information.
• Communication: When reaching out to passport services, citing your file number allows for easy reference to your application.
• Record Management: It helps authorities organise and manage application records efficiently.
• Renewals and Updates: The file number ensures that your new application is linked to your previous records during the renewal of your passport or personal information updates.

Techniques for Identifying Your File Number on a Passport

1. Check the Passport's First Page

• Open your passport.
• Look at the top right corner: The passport number is followed by the file number in the upper right corner. It is often presented in a specific format, like "File No. XXXXX."

2. Look for a Separate Page

• Scan through the passport booklet: In some cases, the file number might be printed on a separate page within the booklet, especially if the passport is relatively old.
• Check the inside covers: The file number is sometimes placed on either the back cover or inside the front cover.

3. Utilise Online Services

• Visit the official Passport Seva website: When your passport details are online, it’s common to find your file number listed.
• Log in to your account: Access your passport information by using your registered credentials.
• Search for the file number: Look for the section or tab where your passport information is shown alongside your file number.

4. Utilise Online Services

• Collect the details: Verify that you have your passport number, date of birth, and place of issuance at hand.
• Reach out to the nearest Regional Passport Office: Find their contact information on the Passport Seva website or through a national government directory.
• Provide your details: Let them know you’re attempting to locate your file number.
• Request assistance: Staff members at the passport office can typically access your file number with the information you supply.

Additional Tips:

• Make sure to keep a copy of your passport details: For safety, it’s a good idea to have a photocopy of the first page and the file number in case the original is misplaced.
• Consider online registration: If you haven’t already, putting your passport details online can give you straightforward access to information such as your file number down the line.

How to Check Passport Status with File Number?

To verify your passport status online, simply execute the following steps:

1. Go to the Passport Seva website.

2. Navigate to the main screen of the homepage and then hit the button saying "Track application status."

3. For status retrieval, please enter your application type, file number, and date of birth.

FAQs on Passport File Number