When Is SB Police Verification Required for E-Passport in Bangladesh?

When Is SB Police Verification Required for E-Passport in Bangladesh?. Getting an e-passport in Bangladesh is now faster and more efficient than ever before. However, one essential step that often determines how quickly your passport is issued is the SB police verification process. Although the government has simplified the procedure, there are still cases where this step becomes mandatory.

This comprehensive guide will explain everything you need to know about e-passport police verification in Bangladesh, how to avoid delays, and what to do if your police clearance gets rejected.

What is SB Police Verification for e-Passport?

SB Police Verification, also known as Special Branch clearance, is a security screening process conducted by the Bangladesh Police. It ensures that the applicant’s background is clean and all provided details are accurate and authentic.

During the passport police verification, the Special Branch verifies several key aspects of an applicant:

Nationality confirmation (proving you’re a Bangladeshi citizen)
Verification of permanent and present addresses
Employment status
Check for criminal records or ongoing cases
Validation of dismissed case documents, if applicable

Elimination of Physical Police Verification for e-Passports

In a major step toward digital transformation, the Government of Bangladesh has eliminated physical police visits for e-passport applicants. Previously, police officers would visit your home and ask neighbors about your identity and background, which caused delays in passport issuance.

Now, the verification is done digitally. The system matches your details with your NID (National ID), Birth Certificate, and Driving License. Despite this automation, SB police clearance is still mandatory and must be completed successfully.

How Long Does E-Passport SB Police Verification Take?

The typical time frame for SB police verification is about 2 to 3 working days, but it can extend up to 19–20 days depending on the case. If everything checks out and the clearance report reaches the Dhaka Passport Office without delay, your e-passport is quickly processed by an Assistant Director or Deputy Director of the passport department.

Using the Hello SB App for Status Check or Complaints

If you’re waiting too long and there no update on your police clearance, you can file a complaint via the Hello SB mobile app. Simply enter your passport reference number and relevant details to track the progress or raise an issue.

Is Applicant Involvement Needed for SB Verification?

No, you are not required to visit a police station. The entire process is automated, and a designated officer will review your records using national databases. However, make sure that all your documents and information are accurate and updated.

Why Your SB Police Clearance Might Be Negative

Getting a negative police verification report can be distressing, but understanding the reasons can help you fix the problem. Here are some common causes:

Incorrect Address: If the address provided doesn’t exist or your identity isn’t confirmed at the location, the report may be negative.
Missing Current Address: If you’re not found at the present address, it raises red flags.
Ongoing or Past Criminal Cases: Active cases or unreported dismissed cases can result in a rejection.
Incorrect or Misleading Information: Wrong occupation, name, or mismatched documents can also lead to negative results.
Unmatched Data with National Records: Any discrepancy between your submitted data and NID or other national documents can result in failure.

If your passport application status shows “Sent for Rework”, it means your SB clearance was not approved.

What to Do If Your Police Verification Is Negative?

If your e-passport application is rejected due to negative police clearance, follow these steps:

Identify the Issue: Check the reason mentioned in the police report. This helps in correcting your application.
Correct the Mistake: Update incorrect data, collect missing documents, or provide proof of case dismissal if applicable.
Reapply: Once the issue is resolved, submit a written application to the Assistant Director of Passports. Include:

Passport reference number

Application ID
Date of birth
Details of your correction or appeal

How to Avoid e-Passport Police Verification Delays

Follow these pro tips to ensure your SB clearance is smooth and fast:

Provide accurate information during your application
Do not submit unverified or false data
Upload proper, clear, and updated documents
Avoid using addresses where you don’t actually live
Double-check NID, employment, and other records before applying

Conclusion

While the e-passport process in Bangladesh has become much more efficient, SB police verification remains a crucial step that cannot be overlooked. Understanding the process, knowing the possible pitfalls, and taking timely action will ensure your passport is issued without unnecessary delays.