Documents required for Indian Passport — All you need to know

A passport is your formal ticket to exploring the world and a key representation of your identity abroad. In India, obtaining this document calls for careful preparation and specific paperwork, according to the type of application—whether it’s your first time, a renewal, or an expedited Tatkaal request. Knowing the exact documents required can simplify the process and help you avoid setbacks. This guide offers a clear breakdown of every necessary document by application type, setting you up for a straightforward and efficient passport application experience.

Why are these documents important?

The Indian Passport Authority has established specific documentation requirements to verify the applicant’s identity, address, age, and citizenship. This ensures that passports are issued only to bona fide Indian citizens and helps to prevent fraud.

Key categories of documents

The documentation needed can vary depending on the type of passport application. The major categories are:

1. New passport application (First-time applicants)

2. Renewal of passport

3. Tatkaal passport (expedited service)

4. Minor passport applications

5. Passport reissue for lost or damaged passports

Each category has its own set of requirements, so it’s essential to understand what’s needed in your specific situation.

Documents for first-time applicants

For those applying for their first passport, here’s a breakdown of the primary documents required:

Proof of address

A document verifying your current address is mandatory. You can provide any one of the following:

● Aadhaar card

● Voter ID card

● Driving Licence

● Utility bills (electricity, water, or gas bills - must be recent and bear your name and address)

● Bank account statement/passbook (recent statement with the bank’s stamp)

● Rent agreement (registered, if applicable)

Make sure the document you provide includes the address where you currently reside and that it matches the address you list in your application.

Proof of date of birth

For proof of date of birth, one of the following is generally required:

● Birth certificate (issued by municipal authorities or registered records)

● Matriculation/10th standard passing certificate

● Aadhaar card

● PAN card

The date of birth document should clearly state your birth date, ideally matching what is recorded on other identification documents.

Proof of identity

Most commonly, an Aadhaar card is accepted as a valid proof of identity for passport applications. In cases where Aadhaar is not available, Voter ID or a PAN card can be submitted. Additionally, the Passport Authority allows:

● Government-issued ID (for government employees)

● Employee ID cards (for employees of reputed companies, if validated)

Proof of citizenship (for some applicants)

In some cases, applicants may need to provide proof of citizenship. This is generally required if the applicant’s circumstances necessitate verification of Indian citizenship. Acceptable documents include:

● Voter ID card

● Aadhaar card

● PAN card

For applicants born outside India, additional documentation might be required, such as proof of parent(s)’ nationality.

Self-declaration form

The self-declaration form is an undertaking provided during the application process, confirming the authenticity of the details provided. This form is generally submitted digitally while filling out the application on the Passport Seva website.

Documents for passport renewal

For passport renewals, especially when your passport is nearing its expiry date or is fully used, you need fewer documents compared to a new application. Here’s what you’ll need:

● Old passport (this should include the original passport, along with photocopies of the first two and last two pages, as well as any pages containing observations or endorsements)

● Proof of address (if your current address is different from what is recorded in your old passport)

● Identity proof (Aadhaar card or Voter ID)

If your personal information has changed since your last passport (e.g., name, marital status), additional documents such as a marriage certificate or gazetted name-change document may be required.

Documents for Tatkaal passport applications

The Tatkaal scheme is an expedited service provided by the Passport Seva, allowing applicants to receive a passport on an urgent basis. The requirements for Tatkaal applications are slightly different:

1. Standard documents for address and identity proof

2. Verification certificate (Annexure F): This is typically issued by a government official or higher authority verifying the authenticity of your application.

3. Self-declaration (Annexure I): A self-declaration form stating the urgency of the request and the truthfulness of the information provided.

Ensure that all documents are up-to-date and valid, as any discrepancy may lead to delays.

Documents required for minors

Applying for a passport for a minor (below 18 years of age) comes with its own documentation requirements. The primary documents are:

1. Proof of date of birth: This is generally a birth certificate or school certificate stating the child’s date of birth.

2. Proof of address: Since minors may not have their own proof of address, the parents’ address proof can be used.

3. Identity proof of parents: This includes the Aadhaar card or Voter ID of one or both parents.

4. Annexure H: This is a consent form signed by both parents (or the legal guardian if applicable).

The presence of both parents or legal guardians at the Passport Seva Kendra is often required during the application process for minors.

Documents for reissuing lost or damaged passports

In the case of a lost or damaged passport, applicants must provide additional documents to support the reissue request. The key documents are:

1. FIR or police report: This is required to document the loss of the passport.

2. Proof of identity: An Aadhaar card, Voter ID, or another government-issued ID.

3. Proof of address: Any valid address proof document, as mentioned above.

4. Affidavit (Annexure L): This affidavit states that the applicant has lost their passport or that it has been damaged.

If you need an urgent reissue under the Tatkaal scheme, additional verification from a government officer may be required.

Tips to streamline your passport application process

Here are some tips to streamline your passport application process:

1. Ensure document consistency: Ensure that your name, address, and date of birth are consistent across all documents.

2. Use the Passport Seva online portal: It’s convenient for booking an appointment, filling out forms, and uploading preliminary documents.

3. Carry both originals and photocopies: Bring both original documents and photocopies for verification at the Passport Seva Kendra.

4. Prepare annexures if needed: Some cases, such as Tatkaal and minor applications, require annexures (special declarations). Prepare these in advance.

5. Keep recent photographs: Although many centres take your photo during the visit, carrying a few recent, passport-size photographs may be helpful.

Conclusion

Securing your passport is essential for travel and can serve as an identity document within India. By ensuring that you have the right documents ready, you can avoid delays and make the process smoother. Remember, checking all details for consistency and accuracy across documents is key to a successful passport application.

Frequently asked questions

Q1: What documents are needed for changing the address on my passport?

If you’re changing your address, you’ll need to submit a valid proof of your new address, such as an Aadhaar card, utility bill, or rent agreement. Make sure the new address document is up-to-date.

Q2: Do I need to carry original documents?

Yes, original documents are needed for verification purposes. Additionally, carry photocopies of each document for submission.

Q3: What if my passport expires soon? Should I renew it now?

It’s recommended to renew your passport if it’s within 12 months of its expiry date, especially if you plan on travelling internationally. Most countries require a minimum passport validity of six months for entry.

Q4: How long is a passport valid in India?

Indian passports are generally valid for 10 years for adults and five years for minors. You may renew it at any point within a year of the expiry date.