Different Types Of Passports Available In India

An Indian Passport is much more than a simple travel document – it is a legal identity card that proves Indian citizenship and facilitates international travel. Issued under the Passports Act, 1967, it contains essential details such as the passport holder’s name, nationality, date of birth, photograph, and signature. Apart from being mandatory for overseas travel, the passport also acts as a valid identity and address proof in India.

The Government of India issues different types of passports depending on the purpose of travel, profession, and eligibility of the applicant. The three main categories of passports available in India are:

Differences Between The Three Indian Passports

1. Regular Passport (Type P)

The Regular Passport, also known as Type P (Personal), is the most common passport issued to Indian citizens. It is primarily used for personal travel, tourism, studies, and business trips abroad. This passport is issued in booklets of 36 pages or 60 pages, depending on the applicant’s travel frequency. Holders of a Regular Passport do not receive any special privileges or exemptions.

2. Official Passport (Type S)

The Official Passport, also called Type S (Service), is issued to government employees or individuals deputed for official duties abroad. Family members and dependents of certain Indian Foreign Service officers may also be eligible. While it looks different from a regular passport, it does not provide any additional privileges like diplomatic immunity.

3. Diplomatic Passport (Type D)

The Diplomatic Passport is reserved for high-ranking government officials, Indian diplomats, consuls, and their dependents. This passport allows smooth international travel for diplomatic assignments. However, it is important to note that possession of a Diplomatic Passport does not automatically grant diplomatic immunity – it depends on international treaties and host country agreements.

Passport Apply Procedure in India

Applying for an Indian passport has become a simplified and transparent process with the launch of the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and online application system. While passport rules are centrally governed, every state and district has a Regional Passport Office (RPO) to assist citizens.

Here’s the step-by-step passport application procedure in India:

1. Filling the Application: Submit your application online through the Passport Seva website or offline at PSK. Ensure there are no errors in the form.
2. Booking an Appointment: Select the nearest Passport Seva Kendra and book an appointment slot for document verification.
3. Preparing Documents: Carry valid documents such as Aadhaar card, voter ID, utility bills (for address proof), birth certificate, and educational certificates, along with photocopies.
4. Visiting the Passport Office: On the appointment date, biometric details, photograph, and signature are captured. Documents are verified on the spot.
5. Police Verification: Local police verify the applicant’s identity and residence. This step is crucial for approval.
6. Passport Dispatch: Once verification is cleared, the passport is printed and delivered to the applicant’s address within a few days.

Tatkaal Passport Scheme

The Tatkaal Passport scheme is designed for individuals who require a passport urgently. Under this scheme, applicants can receive their passport within 1–3 working days after police verification. While faster, it comes with higher fees compared to the normal scheme. However, the Tatkaal facility is not applicable for cases involving lost or damaged passports, expired visas, or passports not renewed within 6 months of expiry.

Passport For Minors

Parents or guardians can apply for a Minor Passport for children below 18 years of age. Either parent’s passport can be used as address proof during the application. By default, it is assumed that both parents consent to the application unless specified otherwise. Minors are generally issued Non-ECR (Emigration Check Not Required) passports, making travel easier for educational purposes.

Renewal Of Indian Passport

An Indian Passport is typically valid for 10 years. Renewal can be initiated up to 1 year before expiry or within 1 year after expiration. Once renewed, the old passport is canceled but remains valid for visas already stamped until their expiry date. Early renewal is always recommended to avoid last-minute travel issues.

Damaged Or Lost Passport

Damaged Passport: If a passport is partially damaged but details remain visible, the applicant can apply for a re-issue by submitting Annexure-L. A police complaint is not required.

Lost Passport: In case of a lost passport, it is mandatory to lodge a police complaint and attach the First Information Report (FIR) with the application for a re-issue. Additional scrutiny may apply in such cases.

Changes In Passport Details

If any changes are required in the passport, such as name (after marriage, spelling correction, numerology changes), address update, date of birth correction, marital status update, or addition/deletion of spouse’s name, applicants can apply for a re-issue with valid supporting documents.