Documents Required For Passport in India - 2025

Get detailed information about the essential documents required for passport application in 2025. Includes a list of key requirements such as identity proof, address proof, photographs, and any specific conditions that may apply.
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06-March-2025

A passport is a vital document for travelling, and it not only identifies you but also permits you to travel across international borders. In India, a passport is one of the most important identity documents that a person can own. The documents required for passport application are straightforward, making it easy and convenient to apply for a passport in India through the online process.

However, the passport application process in India necessitates meticulous attention to the requisite documentation. From establishing identity and citizenship to verifying personal details, the documents required for an Indian passport play a pivotal role in facilitating smooth and efficient processing. Understanding the specific documents required for Indian passport application and ensuring compliance is essential for applicants seeking to obtain or renew their passports.

The Indian government has formulated various guidelines for issuing new or re-issuing passports to people. The common documents required for passport application include:

Essentials documents for Indian passport

Following are the list of documents required for Indian passport.

Voter ID card

A government-issued identification card that proves your eligibility to vote in elections.

Aadhaar card/E-Aadhaar

A unique 12-digit identification number issued by the Indian government, used for various purposes including passport applications.

PAN card

A permanent account number issued by the Indian Income Tax Department, primarily used for financial transactions.

Driving license

A government-issued document authorizing you to drive a motor vehicle.

Birth certificate

A document issued by the government certifying the date, place, and parents of your birth.

10th standard marksheet

A document issued by your school certifying your performance in the 10th grade exams.

Bank passbook photo

A photograph of your bank passbook, showing your account details and transaction history.

School leaving certificate

A document issued by your school certifying your completion of education and the date of leaving.

Ration card

A government-issued card that entitles you to purchase subsidized food grains.

Documents required to apply for a new passport

Obtaining a fresh passport is quite a simple process, but before applying for one, you must ensure you have all the necessary documents required for Indian passport. The list of acceptable documents by the passport authority of India includes the following:

Proof of identity

Given below is a list of documents required for a new passport in India. Any one of the following documents can serve as evidence of identity:

  • Aadhaar card
  • Voter ID card
  • PAN card
  • Driving license
  • Government ID card
  • Photo credit card
  • Government service identity card
  • Pension document

Proof of address

Any one of the following documents can serve as proof of address:

Utility bills (electricity, telephone, water supply, and gas) in the name of the applicant.

  • Aadhaar card
  • Voters ID card
  • Driving license
  • A bank statement with an attested photograph of the applicant
  • Rent agreement
  • Income tax assessment order

Birth certificate or proof of date of birth

Providing proof of your date of birth is mandatory when applying for a passport. The following documents can serve as proof of the same:

  • Birth certificate issued by the Municipal Authority or Registrar of Births and Deaths
  • School leaving certificate
  • Certificate of date of birth issued by a Gazetted Officer
  • Declaration given by the head of the Orphanage/Child Care Home
  • Aadhaar card or e-Aadhaar of the applicant

Passport-size photographs

Three recent colour photographs: Size 2-inch x 2-inch with a plain white background. The applicant should not be wearing glasses and should have a neutral expression.

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Which documents are needed for a passport appointment?

Here is a list of documents needed for a passport appointment:

1. Identity proof

  • Aadhaar card
  • Voter ID card
  • PAN card
  • Driving license
  • Passport (if renewing)

2. Address proof

  • Utility bills (electricity, water, gas)
  • Rent agreement
  • Bank statements
  • Aadhaar card (with address)

3. Photographs

Two recent passport-sized photographs (white background)

4. Birth certificate

Original birth certificate or a certified copy

5. Declaration form

Complete the passport application form and declaration

6. Fees

Pay the prescribed passport application fees

7. Additional documents (if applicable)

  • Marriage certificate (if married)
  • Divorce decree (if divorced)
  • Court order (if adopted)
  • Police report (if lost or stolen passport)

Note: Specific requirements may vary based on individual circumstances and the type of passport application. It's advisable to check the official passport application guidelines or consult with the passport authorities for the most accurate and up-to-date information.

Documents required for new passport application of minors

When applying for a passport for a minor, specific documents are required to establish the child’s identity, citizenship, and parental consent. Ensure all documents are valid and comply with passport application guidelines. Here is a detailed list:

Proof of identity: Parent’s passport copy attested by them or by self, birth certificate of the minor

Proof of address: Parent's present address proof, including passbook of an active bank account, electricity bill, utility bill, rent agreement, landline bill, mobile bill, gas connection proof

Proof of age: Birth certificate issued by the municipal corporation, or a declaration given by any orphanage on official letterhead confirming the applicant’s date of birth, school leaving certificate, Mark sheet of secondary or higher secondary, or a policy bond issued by the Public Life Insurance company where the date of birth of the policyholder is mentioned

Photographs: Three recent colour photographs of size 2-inch x 2-inch.

Also read: Documents required for ECNR passport

Documents required to reissue a passport

To reissue a passport there are is a list of documents which are essential such as passport photographs, and identity proof, along with any specific conditions or exemptions that may apply. Below are the documents required for passport reissue:

Original old passport

With a photocopy of its first two and last two pages, including the ECR/Non-ECR page (previously known as ECNR) and the page of observation.

Proof of address

Any one of the following documents can serve as the proof of address:

  • Utility bills (electricity, telephone, water supply, and gas) in the name of the applicant
  • Aadhaar card
  • Voters ID card
  • Driving license
  • Bank statement with an attested photograph of the applicant
  • Rent agreement
  • Income tax assessment order

Passport-size photographs

Two recent colour photographs of size 2-inch x 2-inch.

Documents required for minors for reissue of passport

Check the list of documents required to reissue of passport for Minors:

Original old passport

With a photocopy of its first two and last two pages, including the ECR/Non-ECR page (previously known as ECNR) and the page of observation.

Parental consent

A letter of consent from the parent(s) or legal guardians.

Certificate from school

Photocopy of school leaving certificate.

Proof of address

Any one of the following parent’s documents can serve as the proof of address:

  • Utility bills (electricity, telephone, water supply, and gas) in the name of the applicant
  • Aadhaar card
  • Voters ID card
  • Driving license
  • Bank statement with an attested photograph of the applicant
  • Rent agreement
  • Income tax assessment order

Read more about: ECNR Passport and Non-ECR Passport

Documents required for passport renewal

To renew your passport, you'll need to submit specific documents along with your application. The Passport seva portal's document advisor will guide you on the exact requirements based on your renewal type. Here's a general list of passport renewal documents needed for passport renewal:

Original old passport

Your current passport with valid pages.

Photocopies

Self-attested copies of the first two and last two pages of your passport, as well as any observation pages or ECR/Non-ECR pages.

Additional documents

If you have a Short Validity Passport (SVP), you may need to provide proof of the issues resolution and any validity extension pages.

Remember, specific requirements may vary, so consult the Passport seva portal or contact passport authorities for accurate information.

Passport renewal process

You may need to renew or reissue a passport due to certain circumstances. The passport renewal documents needed are:

Causes for reissuing a passport

  • Expiration: When a passport reaches its expiry date, it must be renewed to continue international travel.
  • Name change: If an individual legally changes their name due to marriage, divorce, or other reasons, a new passport reflecting the updated name is necessary.
  • Damage or wear: Passports that are significantly damaged, torn, or have excessive wear and tear may require replacement to ensure they are machine-readable and tamper-proof.
  • Lost or stolen passport: In the event of a lost or stolen passport, reissuing is crucial to prevent identity theft or fraudulent use.
  • Visa pages exhausted: If there are no more blank visa pages for entry/exit stamps.
  • Change in appearance: Substantial changes in appearance due to age or other factors may necessitate a new passport with an updated photo.
  • Validity for certain countries: Some countries require a minimum validity on a passport for entry. If you do not meet this requirement, you need a new passport.
  • Mutilation or defacement: Any deliberate alteration or mutilation of a passport may lead to the need for a replacement.
  • Child-to-adult transition: Children's passports expire sooner than adult ones. When a child reaches adulthood, they must apply for an adult passport.

Documents required for Tatkal passport

A passport is an essential travel document that serves as proof of identity and citizenship. The Indian government provides two types of passport services - regular and tatkal. Tatkal passport is an expedited passport service that requires the applicant to pay higher fees and submit additional documents. To apply for a tatkal passport, the documents required for passport application by the passport authority of India include:

  • Aadhaar Card
  • Voter ID
  • PAN Card
  • Landline or Mobile Bill
  • Birth certificate
  • School leaving certificate
  • Previous passport (if applicable)
  • Two passport size photographs
  • Annexure E for minors (when one parent has given consent)
  • Annexure H for minors (when both parents have given consent)
  • Police Verification Certificate (PVC)

It is important to ensure that all the documents are in order and submitted as per the guidelines provided by the Indian Passport Office to avoid any delays in the issuance of the passport.

Documents required for availing diplomatic/official passport

Diplomatic and official passports are issued to individuals who have been sent abroad on diplomatic assignments. The documents required to avail a diplomatic/official passport are:

  • A letter from the sponsoring authority
  • An identity card issued by the sponsoring authority
  • A copy of the official order or the appointment letter
  • Proof of date of birth
  • Proof of the present address

Also, read: How to check passport application status

How to apply for a passport online?

To apply for a passport online, follow these steps:

  1. Visit the official website:
    Go to your country's official passport application website.
  2. Create an account:
    Register for an account or log in if you have one.
  3. Select application type:
    Choose the type of passport (for example - new, renewal, child, adult).
  4. Fill out the application form:
    Complete the online application form with accurate personal details.
  5. Upload documents:
    Scan and upload required documents like proof of identity, address, and photograph.
  6. Pay fees:
    Pay the application fee online through secure payment methods.
  7. Book an appointment:
    Schedule an appointment at a nearby Passport Office.
  8. Print application receipt:
    Download and print the application receipt with an appointment date.
  9. Attend appointment:
    Visit the designated centre on the appointment date for biometric data and document verification.
  10. Receive passport:
    Await the passport's processing and delivery, usually within a few weeks.

Read more: Download Covid vaccination certificate by mobile number

Conclusion

Obtaining a passport is no longer a complicated process, thanks to the streamlined passport application procedures in India. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has simplified the process by offering an online platform for easy application.

Before applying for a passport, it is essential to have all the necessary documents ready to ensure a smooth and hassle-free process. While the documents required for Indian passport renewal are generally similar, certain variations may apply based on your specific situation. It is advisable to check online for updated requirements before proceeding with the application.

Additionally, when traveling abroad, having essential documents, including a valid passport, is crucial. Along with these, securing health insurance is highly recommended, as it ensures financial protection in case of medical emergencies during international travel. Proper planning and preparation will help you enjoy a stress-free and safe journey.

Frequently asked questions

What documents are required for a passport?

The documents required for a passport include proof of identity (Aadhaar card, voter ID, PAN card), proof of address (utility bills, bank statements), and proof of date of birth (birth certificate). For minors, additional documents like school ID and parental consent are needed. Ensure all documents adhere to the passport authority’s guidelines.

What is proof of identity for a passport in India?

The proof of identity for a passport in India includes documents such as Aadhaar card, voter ID, PAN card, driving license, and other government-issued IDs.

Is the 10th marksheet required for an Indian passport?

The 10th Marksheet is not mandatory for an Indian passport. However, it can be used as a valid proof of date of birth if no other document is available. Other documents such as birth certificate, school leaving certificate, and SSLC certificate can also be used as proof of date of birth.

How to change surname in the passport if got married or divorced recently?

To change your surname in your passport post-marriage or divorce, you'll need to apply for a re-issue. Fill out the passport application form online, providing relevant documents such as marriage certificate or divorce decree, along with the application fee.

Do you need a PAN card for passport?

No, a PAN card is not mandatory for a passport application. However, you'll need to provide other identity proof documents like Aadhaar card, driving licence, or voter ID. Ensure your documents are up to date and match the information provided in your passport application.

Is a birth certificate mandatory for a passport in India?

No, birth certificate is not mandatory for passport in India.

Is the 12th marksheet required for a passport application?

No, the 12th marksheet is not mandatory for a passport. However, alternative documents such as birth certificate, Aadhar card, or driving license can be submitted as proof of date of birth.

How many ID proofs are required for a passport?

Generally, one primary ID proof such as Aadhar card, voter ID, or driving licence is required for a passport application. Additionally, one supporting document such as birth certificate or PAN card may be requested.

Is Aadhaar card mandatory for an Indian passport application?

No, an Aadhaar card is not mandatory for applying for an Indian passport, but it can be used as one of the accepted proof of identity and address documents.

What documents to carry for passport appointment?

The documents to carry for passport appointment are Id proof (Adhaar card, voter Id card, Pan card), Address proof(Utility bills, rent agreement), two recent passport-sized photographs (white background), original birth certificate or a certified copy.

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