What documents are required for the Indian Passport application?

Updated on 27-03-2025

Are you dreaming of exploring the world and experiencing different cultures? Well, you can't do that without a Passport! As the saying goes, “the world is a book, and those who do not travel read only one page.” However, before you can start planning your travel sojourns, you need to get your Passport.

But hold on a second! Do you know what are the documents required for Passport application in India? It can be confusing to figure out the correct documents and requirements, especially if you are a first-time applicant. But fret not, as we are here to guide you through the process and make it as simple as possible.

In this blog, we'll be covering all the documents required for Indian Passport application, whether you're applying for a Passport for the first time, renewing an old one, or getting one for your child. So sit back, relax, and read on to find out the requirements for Passport documents.

Documents Required to Apply for a New Passport 

The documents required for a Passport for an adult’s application in India include proof of identity, address, and age.

• Identity Proof with Photo- To establish identity, one can provide any of the following documents for a Passport – an Aadhaar Card, Voter Card, PAN Card, or driving license.
• Proof of Address- For proof of address, a variety of documents are acceptable, including electricity bills, rent agreements, bank account passbooks, and certificates from employers on company letterheads.
• Proof of Age- To establish proof of age, an applicant can submit his/her birth certificate issued by the municipal corporation, an official letter from an orphanage, a school leaving certificate, or a policy bond issued by a life insurance company.

Other documents required for a Passport, such as an income tax assessment order, an educational certificate, or a spouse’s Passport copy, may also be submitted.

Which Documents Are Needed for a Passport Appointment? 

All submitted documents must be self-attested and provided in their original form with photocopies that are clear and legible. An applicant must present original documents for verification at the time of submitting his/her application during a passport appointment. Additionally, some countries may require travellers to have travel insurance as a prerequisite for obtaining a visa or entering their borders.

If you’re uncertain about the documents required for an adult’s Passport application in India, refer to the official Passport website or contact the Passport office for further assistance.

Documents Required for an Indian Passport for a Minor

If you're applying for a minor’s Passport in India, there are specific documents that you must provide as per the requirements for Passport issuance. Here are the necessary documents for a minor’s passport application:

• Identity Proof: Aadhaar Card, parents’ Passport copy attested by them.
• Address Proof: Parents present address proof, including a Passbook of a running bank account, electricity bill, utility bill, rent agreement, landline bill, mobile bill, or gas connection proof.
• Age Proof: A birth certificate issued by the municipal corporation, a declaration from an orphanage on official letterhead confirming the applicant’s date of birth, a school leaving certificate, a mark sheet of Class X, or a policy bond issued by a Public Life Insurance company which states the date of birth of the policyholder.

If you’re uncertain about the documents required for a minor’s Passport application in India, we recommend checking the official Passport website or contacting the Passport office for further guidance. Remember to double-check that all documents are up-to-date and valid before submitting your application to avoid any delays in processing.

Documents Required for Re-Issue of Passport 

To get your passport re-issued due to a change in name, address, or its expiry, these are the documents you need- 

1. Old Passport
2. A document explaining the need for re-issuing of the passport 
3. Latest proof of address 

Documents Required for Minors for Re-Issue of Passport 

The documents for getting a minor’s passport re-issued are- 

1. Old Passport
2. Copies of parent’s passport 
3. Latest proof of address
4. Annexure D (filled and signed) 

Documents Required for Passport Renewal 

The Passport Seva portal provides a Document Advisor, which lists all the important documents required for Passport renewal. To view the documents, a user would have to select the option for renewal. The following documents are necessary for Passport renewal in India:

• The original old Passport
• Self-certified copies of the initial two and final two pages of the Passport
• Self-certified copy of the observation page (if any) issued by the Passport Issuing Authority
• Self-certified copy of the ECR/Non-ECR page
• Evidence of documents that remove the cause, if any, of the Short Validity Passport (SVP) issuance
• Self-certified copy of the Short Validity Passport (SVP) validity extension page, if any

It's essential to note that if you’re applying for a renewal more than three years after your Passport’s expiry date, you will be required to submit additional documents, including a new police verification report.

Documents Required for Tatkaal Passport 

In case you need a Tatkaal passport, have the following documents with you- 

1. Aadhaar Card
2. Proof of urgency 
3. Annexure F (Verification Certificate) 
4. Documents required for new or re-issuing of passport 

Documents Required for Availing Diplomatic/Official Passport 

A diplomatic passport (official passport) is for government officials. It requires- 

1. A Letter of Approval from the Ministry
2. Identity proof from the government 
3. Age proof
4. Address proof

How to Apply for a Passport?

Applying for a Passport in India is easy and convenient.

1. To begin the Passport application process, you must first register on the Passport Seva Online Portal by selecting the “Register Now” option on the homepage.

2. Once you have created a login ID, proceed to the next step by clicking on the “Apply for Background Verification for GEP” link and providing the necessary information before submitting the form.

3. You can then schedule an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)/Regional Passport Office (RPO) by clicking on the “Pay and Schedule Appointment” link, where you must make an online payment using a credit/debit card, internet banking, or UPI.

4. Once you have completed the payment process, you can obtain your application receipt by selecting the “Print Application Receipt” link. However, printing the application receipt is no longer necessary, as you can present the SMS with your appointment details when you visit the Passport Office. On the day of your appointment, ensure that you bring your original documents to the PSK/RPO. While travelling abroad, many applicants also consider obtaining health insurance for international travel.

FAQs 

Is Aadhaar card enough for an Indian Passport?

No. You can use the Aadhaar Card along with other documents, such as a birth certificate or school leaving certificate, to establish proof of date of birth, address, and citizenship. As supporting documents, you must submit additional documents, such as a PAN Card, Voter ID Card, or driver’s license.

Is 10th Marksheet required for an Indian Passport?

The answer is no; a 10th Marksheet is not mandatory for a Passport application.
However, you can use it as an age-proof document along with other documents, such as a birth certificate or a school leaving certificate. 

Is a birth certificate compulsory for an Indian Passport?

The birth certificate as age proof is not mandatory when it comes to documents for Indian Passport application. In case the birth certificate is unavailable, you can submit a school leaving certificate or a declaration from a magistrate or notary as an alternative commonly accepted document for age proof.

Is it mandatory to carry original documents to passport appointment?

Yes, original documents are needed for verification during a passport appointment. 

Conclusion 

Knowing the documents required for obtaining and renewing of Indian passport allows you to plan before your passport appointments. Having the original papers and copies with you helps smooth and fasten the process. If you plan a trip abroad, look for good international travel insurance to make your travel easy and enjoyable. Get your papers in order and prepare for an unforgettable adventure around the globe!