Introduction: Passport India and the Indian Passport Information
The “Passport” service is presented under the Government of India to provide passports and related services to citizens promptly. This entire ecosystem is managed by the indian passport office, which operates under the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA). The primary goal is to issue passports to eligible Indian citizens.
A Guide to the Indian Passport Application Process
The entire passport application process in India is managed by the Passport Seva System. The process is largely online, with a mandatory in-person visit for document verification and biometrics. The first step is filling out the appropriate passport form online via the official Passport Seva website. You cannot walk into a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) without a passport appointment. Also, the process of passport renewal can be initiated up to one year before the expiry date. To access both passport status and tracking, applicants use their passport login credentials created on the Passport Seva portal at the time of application.
Essential Requirements: Documents, Fees, and Photos
Before the appointment, applicants must prepare the documents required for passport. The standard list includes proof of date of birth, proof of address, and a photocopy of the spouse’s passport in the case of a married applicant with a proper passport annexes. Understanding the passport fee or passport cost is equally important. The fee structure varies based on the type of passport (e.g., 36 pages or 60 pages) and the applicant’s age. A small passport photo is needed. The requirements are a recent, light-coloured background photograph of a specific size (usually 3.5 x 3.5 inches).
Post-Application Procedures: Verification, Status, and Tracking
After the visit to the PSK, one of the most important steps is police verification. This is a standard procedure where the local police station verifies the applicant’s address and personal details. During the waiting period, applicants can check their passport status online. This provides real-time updates on which stage the application is at: “under review at passport office“, “Police Verification Initiated”, or “Passport Printed”.
Understanding Key Concepts: Types, ECR, and Pages
The Indian passport system has several categories and specifications. Passport types primarily include Ordinary Passports (navy blue cover) for regular citizens, Official Passports (white cover) for government officials, and Diplomatic Passports (maroon cover) for diplomats.
A crucial distinction for ordinary passports is between ECR and non-ECR. ECR (Emigration Check Required) is a category for Indian passport holders who have not passed the 10th standard. They require clearance from the Protector of Emigrants when traveling to certain countries for employment. Most educated Indians fall under the Non-ECR category and face no such restriction. Also, the future of travel documents in India is the e-Passport.
Passport-Related Documents and Appointment Issue
After completing your passport application and document submission, you face an issue with a passport delay. When you check the status, you show these types of messages. The messages are on hold for RPO.
Miscellaneous but Important Information
Finally, it’s useful to be aware of Passport Holidays. Passport Seva Kendras and the Head Office remain closed on all holidays declared by the Central Government. Applicants should check the holiday list on the official website before planning their visit. Our portal provides complete information about passport-related complaints at regional passport offices, including problems and solutions.