What are the Documents Required for Passport Application?

A passport not only allows you to travel abroad but also serves as a robust identity and address proof. In India, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issues passports to citizens. The passport application process is streamlined with well-defined steps. One of the most important stages in the process is submitting documents for verification. This article explains the different types of passports, the documents needed to obtain a passport, and common mistakes to avoid while submitting the documents. 

Types of passports issued in India

While this may surprise many, there are broadly five types of passports in India. 

1. Ordinary passport: This is the basic, blue-covered passport issued to most citizens for various purposes such as tourism, business and study. The standard version consists of 36 pages, but frequent travellers can get a 60-page version at an additional cost. 
2. Official passport: This white-covered passport is issued to government officials who travel for official purposes. The government usually bears the application and processing fees for this type. 
3. Diplomatic passport: This maroon-coloured passport comes with special privileges. It is issued to Indian diplomats and high-ranking government officials travelling for diplomatic missions. 
4. Emigration Check Required (ECR) passport: This type of passport has an orange cover. It is issued to citizens seeking employment opportunities abroad who do not meet certain educational requirements. Such passport holders are required to undergo additional emigration checks.  
5. E-passport: Keeping pace with technological advancements, the Indian government introduced electronic or e-passports in 2023. These are traditional passports embedded with an electronic chip that contains the holder’s standard details and biometric information. 

Essential documents required for passport application

Here are the documents needed for passport application: 

1. Any one proof of identity, such as: 

• Aadhaar card
• Voter ID card
• Permanent Account Number (PAN) card
• Driving license 
• Government ID card 
• Photo credit card
• Identity card from any government service

2. Any one proof of address, such as: 

• Aadhaar card
• Voter ID card
• Driving license
• A bank statement with the applicant’s attested photo
• Rent agreement 
• Income tax assessment order

3. Any one proof of date of birth, such as: 

• Birth certificate
• School leaving certificate 
• Certificate of date of birth issued by a Gazetted Officer 
• Aadhaar card 
• Declaration given by the head of the orphanage/childcare home, if applicable

4. Photographs

• Three recent colour photographs
• Size: 2 X 2 inches
• Plain, light-coloured background
• No glasses to be worn  

Additional passport application documents based on applicant type 

While the list above is standard, additional documents may be needed depending on the applicant’s type. 

1. Minors (applicants below 18 years) 

• Birth certificate
• Proof of age, such as a birth certificate or any other acceptable proof of age (e.g., a school leaving certificate) 
• Aadhaar card, if available 
• A copy of the passports of both parents
• Address proof of parents
• Annexure D, a declaration by parents

2. Addition of spouse’s name 

• Marriage certificate 
• Annexure J, a joint photo declaration signed by both husband and wife 

3. Deletion of spouse’s name 

• Divorce order/decree

4. Change of spouse’s name

• Divorce order/decree or death certificate of the first spouse
• Re-marriage certificate or Annexure J 

5. Change of surname by a female applicant owing to marriage or divorce 

• Marriage certificate or Annexure J 
• Divorce order/decree

Required documents for passport renewal and reissue 

The documents required for reissuing a passport are mostly the same as for a fresh application, with some additional documents depending on the reason for the reissue. 

Standard requirements 

• Old passport 
• Proof of address
• Proof of identity 
• Passport-size photographs
• Proof of name change, if applicable 
• Visa pages, if the renewal is due to exhaustion of pages in the previous passport

Common mistakes to avoid while submitting passport application documents 

Here are some common mistakes to watch out for when applying for a passport: 

1. Missing or incorrect documents 

Before your appointment, it is essential to check the list of documents applicable to your case. Doing this preliminary check helps avoid any hassles, delays or rejections. 

2. Poor quality photocopies 

Even if your documents are up to date and valid, submitting low-quality photocopies can cause issues. If they are so dim or dark that the information cannot be easily read or understood, your application may get rejected. 

3. Inconsistent signature 

Applications may also get rejected due to inconsistencies in signatures across documents. Make sure all your self-attested copies and the form have the same signature to avoid unnecessary complications. 

4. Ignoring the ECR option 

If you have passed class 10 or higher, it is essential to tick the ECNR box and attach supporting academic documents. Failing to do so may result in an ECR stamp on your passport, which can affect your eligibility to work in certain countries. 

5. Incomplete information 

While supporting documents are crucial, it is equally important to fill out the application form accurately and completely. Pay attention to the spelling of names, addresses and other details. Any discrepancies between the form and documents can lead to rejection. 

Conclusion 

Submitting valid and up-to-date documents is essential for a smooth passport application process. Being aware of the required documents and keeping them organized beforehand can save you from unnecessary delays or rejections.