A passport is a travel document issued by a government to its citizens, allowing them to travel to foreign countries. In India, there are several types of passports available, each catering to different needs and purposes. This article will provide a comprehensive overview of the various types of passports issued in India.
Regular Passport
The most common type of passport issued in India is the Regular Passport. It is valid for both personal and business travel and is suitable for most international journeys. Regular passports are usually issued for a period of 10 years.
Diplomatic Passport
Diplomatic passports are issued to Indian diplomats, government officials, and their families. These passports grant the holder diplomatic privileges and immunities in foreign countries. Diplomatic passports are typically valid for five years.
Official Passport
Official passports are issued to Indian government officials on official business trips. They provide the holder with certain privileges and immunities, but not to the same extent as diplomatic passports. Official passports are usually valid for five years.
Ordinary Passport
Ordinary passports are issued to Indian citizens who are not diplomats or government officials. They are valid for personal and business travel and are the most commonly used type of passport. Ordinary passports are usually valid for 10 years.
Emergency Passport
Emergency passports are issued to Indian citizens in urgent situations, such as when they have lost their regular passport or need to travel urgently. These passports are typically valid for a short period, usually a few months.
Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana (PMJDY) Passport
The PMJDY passport is a special type of passport issued to individuals who are part of the Pradhan Mantri Jan Dhan Yojana, a government-backed financial inclusion scheme. This passport is designed to facilitate international travel for low-income citizens.
Passport Renewal
Indian passports can be renewed before they expire. The renewal process typically involves submitting an application form, passport photographs, and required documents. The renewal time may vary depending on the workload and the specific circumstances.
Passport Lost or Stolen
If your passport is lost or stolen while traveling abroad, you should immediately contact the nearest Indian embassy or consulate. They can assist you in obtaining an emergency passport or replacement passport.
Passport Fees
The fees for passport issuance and renewal vary depending on the type of passport and the services availed. You can find the latest passport fees on the official website of the Indian Passport Authority (IPA).
How to Apply for a New Passport in India?
Passport Application Information
Online Application:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Visit the Passport Seva Portal | Go to the official Passport Seva Portal (https://www.passportindia.gov.in/) |
| Register | Create a new user account if you don’t have one already. |
| Fill in the Application Form | Provide accurate details as per your documents. |
| Upload Documents | Scan and upload required documents like proof of identity, address, date of birth, and photographs. |
| Schedule an Appointment | Choose a suitable date and time for your appointment at a nearby Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). |
| Pay Fees | Pay the applicable passport fees online using net banking, credit/debit card, or UPI. |
Offline Application:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| Obtain Application Form | Get the passport application form from a nearby PSK or download it from the Passport Seva Portal. |
| Fill in the Form | Complete the form accurately and attach required documents. |
| Submit Application | Visit a PSK with your completed application and documents. |
| Pay Fees | Pay the passport fees at the PSK. |
Required Documents:
| Document Type | Description |
|---|---|
| Proof of Identity | Birth certificate, Aadhaar card, driving license, voter ID card, etc. |
| Proof of Address | Aadhaar card, utility bills, passport copy (if renewing), etc. |
| Photographs | Two recent passport-sized photographs. |
| Previous Passport (if renewing) | Submit your old passport. |
Passport Fees:
The passport fees vary depending on the type of passport (ordinary, diplomatic, etc.), processing time, and other factors. You can find the latest fees on the Passport Seva Portal.
Passport Processing Time:
The processing time for a new passport typically ranges from a few days to a few weeks. It can vary based on factors like workload and document verification.
Additional Tips:
- Check for Errors: Carefully review your application form and documents for any errors before submitting.
- Plan Ahead: Apply for your passport well in advance, especially if you have travel plans.
- Track Your Application: Use the Passport Seva Portal to track the status of your passport application.
- Contact PSK for Assistance: If you have any questions or encounter issues, contact the PSK where you submitted your application.