Documents Required for Passport in India

Introduction

Applying for a passport is an important step for anyone planning to travel abroad for education, work, business, or leisure. In India, a passport serves not only as a travel document but also as a valid proof of identity and address. While the passport application process has become more streamlined and digital in recent years, many applicants still face delays or rejections due to incomplete or incorrect documentation. Understanding the List of Documents Required For a Passport In India is therefore crucial to ensure a smooth and hassle-free application process and avoid unnecessary delays.

In this comprehensive guide, we explain the complete list of documents required for passport in India in 2025, covering fresh passport applications, renewals, Tatkal passports, and special cases. The information is structured using EEAT principles to provide accurate, trustworthy, and practical guidance for applicants.

Types of Passport Applications in India

Before checking the documents, it’s important to know the type of passport application you are applying for:

· Fresh Passport

· Passport Renewal / Reissue

· Tatkal Passport

· Passport for Minors

· Passport for Government Employees

The required documents may vary slightly depending on the category.

Basic Documents Required for Passport in India (Fresh Application)

For a fresh passport application, the following documents are generally required:

1. Proof of Identity (Any One)

· Aadhaar Card

· Voter ID Card

· PAN Card

· Driving Licence

· Government-issued photo ID

2. Proof of Address (Any One)

· Aadhaar Card

· Voter ID

· Driving Licence

· Electricity / Water / Gas Bill

· Bank Passbook with address

· Rent Agreement (along with utility bill)

3. Proof of Date of Birth (Any One)

· Birth Certificate issued by Municipal Authority

· PAN Card

· Aadhaar Card

· School Leaving Certificate

· 10th Class Certificate

Documents Required for Passport Renewal / Reissue

If you are renewing or reissuing your passport, you will need:

· Original old passport

· Self-attested copies of the first and last pages of the passport

· ECR/Non-ECR page (if applicable)

· Address proof (if address has changed)

· Aadhaar Card or any valid ID

Police verification may or may not be required, depending on your case.

Documents Required for Tatkal Passport

Tatkal passport applications require fewer documents but come with higher fees. Commonly required documents include:

· Aadhaar Card

· PAN Card

· Voter ID / Driving Licence

· Birth Certificate

· Verification Certificate (if applicable)

Police verification is usually conducted after passport issuance in Tatkal cases.

Documents Required for Minor Passport (Below 18 Years)

For minors, the following documents are required:

· Birth Certificate of the minor

· Aadhaar Card (if available)

· Parents’ passport copies

· Parents’ address proof

· Annexure D (Declaration by parents)

If one parent is not present, additional affidavits may be required.

Documents Required for Government Employees

Government employees must submit:

· Identity Certificate

· No Objection Certificate (NOC)

· Prior Intimation Letter

These documents are issued by the respective department or employer.

Additional Documents (If Applicable)

· Marriage Certificate (for spouse name inclusion)

· Divorce Decree (if applicable)

· Change of Name Affidavit

· Adoption Deed (for adopted children)

How to Apply for a Passport in India

1. Register on the official Passport Seva website

2. Fill out the passport application form online

3. Upload required documents

4. Pay passport fees online

5. Book an appointment at Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)

6. Visit PSK with original documents

7. Complete police verification (if required)

Common Reasons for Passport Application Rejection

· Mismatch in name or address across documents

· Incomplete documentation

· Invalid or expired address proof

· Incorrect date of birth proof

· Failure in police verification

Ensuring correct and consistent documents can help avoid delays.

Tips for a Smooth Passport Application

· Carry both originals and self-attested copies

· Ensure documents are updated and readable

· Use the same name format across all documents

· Reach PSK on time for your appointment

· Track application status online

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q.1. Is an Aadhaar card mandatory for a passport in India?

No, Aadhaar is not mandatory, but it is one of the most commonly accepted documents.

Q.2. Can I apply for a passport without a birth certificate?

Yes, alternative date-of-birth documents like a PAN card or a school certificate are accepted.

Q.3. How long does it take to get a passport in India?

Normal passport issuance takes 2–4 weeks, while Tatkal passports are issued faster.

Q.4. Can squareinsurance help with passport-related guidance?

Yes, squareinsurance provides informational guidance and resources to help users understand documentation requirements and prepare for travel-related needs, including insurance support.

Q.5. Is police verification mandatory for all passport applications?

Police verification depends on the type of application and the individual case.

Conclusion

Knowing the documents required for a passport in India is the first and most important step toward a successful application. With proper preparation, correct documentation, and timely submission, you can avoid unnecessary delays and get your passport issued smoothly. Always check the latest guidelines before applying, as requirements may change from time to time.

Note:

For easy access to insurance solutions, policy comparisons, and POSP opportunities, download “Square Insurance POS – Apps on Google Play” and manage your insurance needs digitally in one place.

Search This Blog

Square Insurance