How to apply for a Passport in India?

A passport is a crucial document given by the government to travel to other countries. It is issued by the national government to its citizens to travel across the borders. The issuance takes a minimum of 1 to 2 weeks of working days. This comprehensive guide will help you understand how to apply for a passport.  

What is a Passport?

A passport is a document which acts as proof of identity and permit for international travelling. It allows Indians to travel abroad and proves their citizenship in other countries. In a passport you’ll find pages with important information about you, including your photo, name, date of birth, nationality, and a unique passport number.  

What are the eligible points to apply for passport?

• In India, anyone 18 or older can apply for a passport.  
• But for children, passports are only good for 5 years or until they turn 18.  
• Children aged 15 to 18 can get a passport that’s valid for 10 years or until they turn 18. 

Why are passports Important?

• Identification:
  • Passports are universally accepted as proof of identity, especially when you’re in a foreign country. 
• Travel:
  • Without a passport, you can’t travel internationally. It’s your ticket to exploring new countries and experiencing different cultures. 
• Security:
  • Passports help governments keep track of who is entering and leaving their countries, enhancing security. 
• Visas:
  • Many countries require visas for entry, and your passport is necessary for obtaining these visas. 
• Emergency Assistance:
  • If you find yourself in trouble abroad, your embassy or consulate can help, but you’ll need your passport for them to help you. 

What are the documents required for Passport application?

When you apply for a passport in India, you need to give some important papers. Here’s a list of important documents you need to get a new Indian passport. 

• Identity proof is the most crucial document you need to submit.
  • Provide an Aadhaar card or any valid photo ID card as identity proof. 
• Documents like birth certificates or school records that show how old you are. 
• License, Permanant Account Number (PAN) and Aadhaar card. 
• Address Proofs like
  • Electricity Bill,
  • Water Bill and
  • Mobile Bill. 
• A photo ID for managing your bank account.  
• Rental agreement (if needed). 

To get a new passport, you need to apply online. The Ministry of External Affairs has moved the whole process to the internet.  

How to apply for a passport?

• Step 1: Go to the official Passport Seva website. 
• Step 2: If you’re already a user, just use your old login details to sign in. If it’s your first time here, just sign up and make a new account. 
• Step 3: Click the “Register Now” button on the homepage under the “New User” section. 
• Step 4: Type in user ID and password, fill in the captcha to verify, and click on ‘Register’. 
• Step 5: Using your registered login ID, login to the Passport Seva Online Portal. 
• Step 6: Once you log in, pick the option and click on the ‘Get a New Passport link’. 
• Step 7: Fill in all the necessary information on the application form. Now click the ‘Upload e-form’ link to submit it. 
• Step 8: After submitting the application, click on the “Pay and Schedule Appointment” link to book your appointment. 
• Step 9: Finally, just click the ‘Print Application Receipt’ link to get a printout of your receipt. Keep the application number on the receipt safe for future reference. 

Visit Passport Seva Kendra or Regional office after completing the application and payment. Take all your original and required documents along with you for verification. When you’re applying for a new passport, ensure you’ve never had one like this. Not even a diplomatic, official, or regular passport. 

Payment method

Booking appointments at Passport Seva Kendra/ Passport offices now requires online payment. You can use 2 different methods to pay online. 

• Use Debit or Credit card. 
• Net Banking. 

After all the verification, officials prepare your passport. And it’ll take 7 to 14 workdays to get your passport. 

What are the different types of passports in India?

In India, there are mainly three types of passports. They are;

• Ordinary Passport (Type P)
• Official Passport (Type S) 
• Diplomatic Passport (Type D) 

• Ordinary Passport (Type P) 
  • The ordinary passport, also known as the Type P passport, is the most common type issued to Indian citizens for regular travel purposes.
  • It is blue and is valid for ordinary travel, such as vacations, business trips, and family visits.  

• Official Passport (Type S) 
  • The official passport, or Type S passport, is issued to individuals who are traveling on official government business.
  • This includes government officials, diplomats, and other individuals representing the Indian government abroad.
  • Official passports are white and may have the word “Official” printed on the cover.  

• Diplomatic Passport (Type D) 
  • The diplomatic passport, or Type D passport, is the highest level of passport issued by the Indian government.
  • It is issued to diplomats, high-ranking government officials, and other individuals representing India on official diplomatic missions abroad.
  • Diplomatic passports are maroon in color and may have the word “Diplomatic” printed on the cover. 

These passports vary in terms of their eligibility criteria, privileges, and the level of diplomatic immunity they offer. Applicants need to understand which type of passport they qualify for based on their purpose of travel and official status. 

Conclusion

In conclusion, knowing how to apply for a passport is crucial for international travelers, as it serves as a proof of identity and citizenship. To apply for an Indian passport, gather necessary documents like identity and address proofs. Register it on the official Passport Seva website. Fill out the online application form and schedule an appointment and pay the fee online.  

Expect your passport to arrive within 7 to 14 working days. Payment options include debit/credit cards or net banking. Ensure all information provided is accurate and up to date to avoid delays or complications in the process. 

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