India offers several types of passports, each catering to different categories of individuals and their specific needs. Understanding the procedures and requirements for obtaining these passports is essential for ensuring a smooth application process. This guide will cover the various types of passport in India and the step-by-step procedure for Indian passport.
Types of Indian Passports
The following are the various types of passport in India:
- Ordinary Passport (Type P): This is the most common type of passport issued to Indian citizens for personal travel such as tourism, business trips, and family visits. It has a navy blue cover.
- Diplomatic Passport (Type D): Issued to Indian diplomats and top-ranking government officials for official international travel. It has a maroon cover.
- Official Passport (Type S): Issued to individuals representing the Indian government on official business. This passport has a white cover.
Procedure for Obtaining an Ordinary Passport
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
The first step in obtaining an ordinary passport is to collect the necessary documents. Here’s the procedure for Indian passport:
- Proof of identity (Aadhaar card, PAN card, etc.)
- Proof of address (utility bills, bank statement, etc.)
- Proof of date of birth (birth certificate, school leaving certificate, etc.)
- Citizenship proof (if applicable)
- Passport-size photographs
Step 2: Create an Account on the Passport Seva Portal
Visit the official Passport Seva Portal (https://portal2.passportindia.gov.in) and create an account. You will need to provide basic information such as your name, date of birth, and email address.
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
Log in to your account and fill out the online application form. You will need to provide personal details, address information, and details of any previous passports. Make sure to review all the information for accuracy before submitting the form.
Step 4: Schedule an Appointment
After submitting the application form, schedule an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO). The appointment scheduling is done through the Passport Seva Portal, where you can choose a convenient date and time.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
Pay the applicable fee online. The fee varies depending on the type of application (normal or tatkal) and the number of pages in the passport booklet (36 or 60).
Step 6: Visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)
On the appointed date, visit the PSK or RPO with all your original documents and their photocopies. You will undergo the following steps at the PSK:
- Document verification
- Biometric data collection (fingerprints and photograph)
- Verification of application form
Step 7: Police Verification
After the PSK visit, a police verification process is conducted to confirm your identity and address. A police officer will visit your residence to verify the information provided in your application.
Step 8: Receive Your Passport
Once the police verification is completed, the passport is printed and dispatched to your address via registered post. You can track the status of your application on the Passport Seva Portal.
Procedure for Obtaining a Diplomatic Passport
Step 1: Obtain Necessary Approvals
Diplomatic passports are issued to Indian diplomats and officials. The applicant must receive necessary approvals from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) or other relevant government bodies.
Step 2: Collect Required Documents
The required documents typically include:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of address
- Approval letter from MEA
- Passport-size photographs
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
The application form for a diplomatic passport can be obtained from the MEA or relevant government departments. Fill out the form with accurate information.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Submit the completed application form along with the required documents to the designated office or department within the MEA.
Step 5: Verification and Issuance
The application and documents will be verified by the authorities. Once verified, the diplomatic passport will be issued and handed over to the applicant.
Procedure for Obtaining an Official Passport
Step 1: Obtain Necessary Approvals
Official passports are issued to individuals representing the Indian government on official business. Approval from the concerned government department or ministry is required.
Step 2: Collect Required Documents
The documents under procedure for Indian passport required include:
- Proof of identity
- Proof of address
- Approval letter from the concerned government department or ministry
- Passport-size photographs
Step 3: Fill Out the Application Form
The application form for an official passport can be obtained from the relevant government department. Fill out the form accurately.
Step 4: Submit the Application
Submit the completed application form and required documents to the designated office or department.
Step 5: Verification and Issuance
The application and documents will be verified by the authorities. Once verified, the official passport will be issued and handed over to the applicant.
Tips for a Smooth Application Process
- Ensure Accuracy: Double-check all information in the application form to avoid delays.
- Prepare for Verification: Ensure all documents are genuine and correctly formatted.
- Follow Up: Regularly check the status of your application on the Passport Seva Portal.
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Conclusion
Obtaining an Indian passport involves a structured procedure with distinct steps for different types of passports. By understanding the requirements and following the correct steps, applicants can ensure a smooth and efficient application process.
