A Complete List of Documents Required for Passport Application in India

If you are going on a trip outside of the country, then the passport is an absolute must. Did you know that an Indian passport holder can travel to 60 countries in the world without a prior visa? So, it is always a good idea to create your passport. But that brings us to the question – what kind of documents are needed to apply for a passport in India?

In this blog, we will give you a detailed guide to all the documents that must be presented if you want to get your passport application processed.

List of the documents needed to get a passport in India

Before we go to the list of the documents needed to get the passport in India, remember that these guidelines have been devised by the Government of India. Moreover, these documents are important because they help the Government to help build a clear identity for each of its citizens who are applying to get their passport made in India.

1. Proof of Identity for passport application

One of the primary requirements for a passport is a valid proof of your identity. Any of the following documents can be used:

•       Aadhaar Card
•       PAN Card
•       Voter ID Card
•       Driving License
•       Government/PSU identification card

2. Proof of Address for passport application

To verify your current residential address, you must provide any of the following documents that clearly show your address and have your name:

•       Aadhaar Card
•       Voter ID Card
•       Utility bills (not older than three months) such as water, electricity, or telephone bill
•       Bank Passbooks with the address
•       Rent Agreement
•       Income Tax Assessment Order
•       Driving License

Read more: Buying local SIM vs. international SIM card – which is better?

3. Proof of Date of Birth

You are required to submit a valid document that confirms your date of birth:

•       Birth Certificate
•       PAN Card
•       Transfer/School leaving/Matriculation certificate issued by the school last attended/recognised educational board
•       Driving License
•       Aadhaar Card with the date of birth (DoB) duly verified by UIDAI

4. Photographs

Passport applications require recent colour photographs with a white background. Make sure these photographs meet the specifications laid out by the passport authority:

•       Size: 35mm x 35mm
•       Background: Plain white
•       Facial features should be visible, without any shadows
•       No hats, sunglasses, or any other items that obscure the face
•       Neutral facial expression with both eyes open

 5. Annexure/ Affidavits (If Applicable)

Depending on your specific circumstances, certain additional documents or affidavits may be necessary:

•       Annexure I need a No Objection Certificate (NOC) if you are a government employee
•       Annexure E for a name change affidavit, if applicable
•       Marriage Certificate, if the spouse’s name needs to be endorsed in the passport

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6. Old Passport (In case of Reissue)

If you are applying for a reissue of your passport due to expiration, loss, or damage, you need to submit:

•       Old Passport in original with self-attested photocopy of its first two and last two pages, including the ECR/Non-ECR page (if any), and the page of observation (if any)
•       Checklist for Organizing Your Documents
•       Self-attested photocopies of your documents as required.
•       Keep both originals and copies at hand when visiting the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO).
•       Check for recent updates or changes in documentation requirements on the official Passport Seva website.

Conclusion

When you are applying for a new passport, whatever the reason for your passport application, always make sure that you have all the necessary documents in hand, especially before you apply for the passport. Once you ensure that you have all the documents ready to be presented, only then, go for the passport application process. Failing to submit your documents could prolong the process and you may have to re-apply for the passport.

In addition, remember that you simply must not possess these documents and present them when asked, but also according to the guidelines as provided by the Ministry of External Affairs, India. By ensuring that you have all the required documents, you can help make your passport application process as smooth and hassle-free as possible.

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