A passport is an essential document that every traveller must carry when travelling outside their home country. A passport allows the user to enter and exit a country, and it serves as an identification document. In India, there are various types of passports, each with its unique purpose and colour.
In this article, we delve into the various types of passports in India, exploring their colours, significance, and the essential processes involved.
Read more: Passport Seva
Various types of passports in India
Given below are the different types of passports in India, along with it understand the different Indian passport colours:
- Blue passport:
The blue passport is the most common type, an ordinary passport in India, and is issued for ordinary travel purposes. This passport is held by the majority of Indian citizens and is intended for personal and professional travel. - Orange passport:
Distinctive in its hue, the orange passport is typically issued to individuals who require emigration checks. Emigration checks are necessary for certain categories of Indian citizens, such as those with less than ten years of formal education. The orange passport serves as a reminder of the regulatory measures in place to ensure the welfare of citizens seeking employment opportunities abroad. - White passport:
The white passport is a diplomatic passport reserved for individuals representing the Indian government on official business. Typically issued to high-ranking officials, diplomats, and members of the Indian Foreign Service, the white passport exudes a sense of authority and responsibility. It signifies the bearer's role as an ambassador of the nation and the importance of their diplomatic mission. - Diplomatic passport:
Distinct from the white passport, the diplomatic passport is another category reserved for high-profile government officials and diplomats. This passport is granted to individuals holding key positions in the government and requires a specific protocol to be followed during its issuance. The diplomatic passport, with its unique privileges and immunities, is a symbol of the diplomatic ties that India shares with other nations.
Also, know how to check the passport status in India.
Eligibility criteria and requirements for different types of passports in India
Following is a quick overview of the eligibility criteria and requirements based on the different type of passport in India:
Passport type |
Eligibility criteria |
Requirements |
Ordinary passport |
Indian citizens |
Proof of identity, address, date of birth, and citizenship |
Official passport |
Government officials on official duty |
Government authorisation, proof of official assignment |
Diplomatic passport |
Diplomats, consuls, and high-ranking government officials |
Government authorisation, proof of diplomatic or official status |
Emergency certificate |
Indian citizens abroad in distress |
Proof of identity, citizenship, and reason for emergency |
Application process for a new Indian passport
During the application process for a new Indian passport, it is essential to understand the types of passports in India to ensure you apply for the correct one. The Indian government issues different types of passports, such as the ordinary passport (blue cover) for regular travellers, the diplomatic passport (maroon cover) for government officials, and the official passport (white cover) for individuals representing the government on official business. Acquiring a new Indian passport involves a systematic application process for different Indian passport colours to ensure the accuracy of information and the security of the document. The process begins with an online application on the official passport portal, where applicants are required to fill in personal details, address information, and travel plans. The system facilitates a streamlined approach, minimising errors and expediting the processing time.
You need to pay a certain amount for the application fee to process your passport. Check the details for passport fees in India.
