Loading article content...
A passport is the most important document of identification for an individual travelling abroad. It plays the dual role of being a traveller’s laissez-passer to enter a foreign territory, and providing proof of Indian citizenship.
As per the Passports Act of 1967, the Ministry of External Affairs, Republic of India issues various types of Indian passport to the citizens according to their civilian rank and purpose of travel. The government categorises the different types of passport in India with specific colours.
Here you will learn in depth about the various types of passports in India and their significance.
Types of Passport in India on the Basis of Colour
Based on the purpose of travelling, there are principally four different types of Indian passports classified which are meant for providing the holders faster immigration clearance, visa-free travel etc. All these different types of Indian passports are characterised by different Indian passport colour.
So let’s know about different types of passports in India on the basis of their colour.
- Blue Passport: This passport is issued to the general Indian people who set out for business or leisure trips to various destinations abroad. This passport helps the foreign authorities to differentiate between government officials and the general public.
- White Passport: These passports are issued to Indian government officials who travel abroad for official purposes. Again, this The white The white passport in India in India helps the immigration officers to recognise the Indian the Indian government officials travelling to their country.
- Red Passport: The diplomatic passport or red colour passport is issued to diplomats working in embassies and consuls. The red passport booklet has 28 pages.
- Orange Passport: In 2018, the Government launched the “orange passport” for individuals who are educated below the 10th standard and require an immigration check in place of the ECR passport. However, the government had to reverse its decision due to concerns over discrimination regarding educational background.
Besides, the Indian Government has recently introduced updated e-passports for better security and rapid immigration check.
Who is Eligible for Different Types of Passport in India
Given below is list of persons eligible for various Indian passport types:
| Type of Passport | Colour | Persons Eligible |
|---|---|---|
| Ordinary | Blue | Ordinary citizens |
| Diplomatic | Red | Diplomats (Embassy or Consulate) |
| Official | White | Ministers and Government Officials |
| ECR passport (now discontinued) | Orange | Those who have not completed their education above 10th standard. |
What are the Documents required for Passport Application?
Given below is the document checklist for new Ordinary Passport Application:
| Type of Evidence | Documents |
|---|---|
| Proof of Date of Birth | Birth Certificate, School leaving/Matriculation Certificate |
| Photo Id Proof | Aadhaar card, voters ID, PAN card, Driving Licence |
| Proof of Residence | Gas/electricity/water/telephone bill, Rent/Lease agreement |
| Proof of Nationality | Aadhaar card, Voters ID, PAN card |
Besides, there are some additional documents required for the Official and Diplomatic Passports. Here is the list of those supporting documents:
- Official or Government Identity Card of the applicant
- Official Duty Certificate issued by the Head of Office
- Official Request Letter from your Forwarding Officer
- Clearance Certificate from Prime Minister’s Office (PMO)
What is the Application Fee for Different Types of Passport in India?
The application fee for all types of Indian passport is the same. The only difference lies in the kind of scenario under which passport application is to be made. Given below is the list of different scenario for passport application and the applicable fee:
| Scenario | Passport Size | Application Fee (₹) |
|---|---|---|
| Fresh Passport / Reissue Application | Standard Size Passport (36 pages) | 1,500 |
| Jumbo Size Passport (60 pages) | 2,000 | |
| New application / renewal in Tatkal service | Standard Size Passport (36 pages) | 3,500 |
| Jumbo Size Passport (60 pages) | 4,000 | |
| Duplicate passport in lieu of loss, damage or theft of the passport | Standard Size Passport (36 pages) | 3,000 |
| Jumbo Size Passport (60 pages) | 3,500 | |
| New Passport for Minors (Below 18 Years) | Standard Size Passport (36 pages) | 1,000 |
In case of a diplomatic (red) or official (white) passport, there is no application fee since the government issues these two types of passport to the respective VIPs/VVIPs.
What if you Lose your Passport while Travelling?
Don't worry at all….. We got you covered!
Before you embark on your journey abroad, you must cover your trip against unforeseen circumstances by purchasing the best travel insurance plan in India from Care Health Insurance. With this plan, you can get yourself covered for loss of important documents such as your passport. In case of loss of passport or other travel documents, you can contact the Care Assistance Provider in India, who will provide you consular access to the Consulate or Embassy of the destination country.
Besides, international travel insurance is compulsory if travelling to a Schengen country. Such a travel insurance plan must cover all medical emergencies and loss of valuables and baggage containing travel documents and passports.
Disclaimer: All plan features, benefits, coverage, and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.
