India has introduced significant changes to its passport application process, affecting new applicants and renewals. The new rules, implemented in early 2025, focus on security, digital integration, and documentation requirements. Here’s everything you need to know:
Key Changes in Passport Rules
- Mandatory Birth Certificate for Certain Applicants: Applicants born on or after October 1, 2023, must submit a birth certificate as the sole proof of date of birth. The certificate must be issued by the Registrar of Births and Deaths, Municipal Corporation, or a designated authority under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969.
- Digitally Embedded Residential Address: The new passports will feature digitally embedded residential addresses, replacing traditional printed addresses. This change aims to enhance verification and security.
- Introduction of Colour-Coded Passports
India is implementing colour-coded passports for different categories of travellers. This classification will help in streamlining processing and identification. - Removal of Parents’ Names: The new format excludes parents’ names to protect privacy and simplify the application process.
- Expansion of Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs): To accommodate the growing demand, the government is increasing the number of Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) across India.
- E-Passports with Microchips: India is rolling out e-passports with embedded microchips, enhancing security and facilitating smoother international travel. These chips will store biometric and personal data, reducing fraud risks.
- Updated Police Verification Process: The government is working on making police verification faster and more efficient, with efforts to digitally verify applicants in certain cases.
- Online Processing and Document Submission: The application process is shifting towards full digital submission, allowing applicants to upload required documents online.
Impact on Applicants
- Those born before October 1, 2023, can still use alternative documents like school certificates or Aadhaar for date of birth proof.
- Faster application processing with expanded PSKs and digital submissions.
- Stronger security features in e-passports will help reduce identity fraud.
- Colour-coded passports will make travel classification clearer.
Important Things to Note
- If born on or after October 1, 2023, a birth certificate is mandatory.
- No parents’ names will appear in the new passport format.
- E-passports with microchips will become standard.
- More PSKs will be opened to reduce delays.
- Online document uploads will streamline the application process.
- Police verification will be digitised for efficiency.
The government urges applicants to stay informed about these changes to avoid delays and ensure smooth passport processing. The new system aims to enhance security, privacy, and convenience for Indian passport holders worldwide.
