Passport Rule Changes: A passport is required for air travel. People often travel abroad for study or work, so a passport is required. If you don’t have one, you can easily apply. The Indian government recently decided to make major changes to passport-related rules, which will come into effect after February 15th, 2026. These new rules aim to make the passport-obtaining process simpler, faster, and more secure. The government believes that strengthening the digital system will relieve people from lengthy procedures and frequent visits to offices.
Major Changes in the Identification and Document Process
Under the new system, Aadhaar and other government identification cards will be prioritized as proof of identity and address. This will eliminate the need for applicants to submit multiple documents. The government has limited the list of required documents to make the application process less complicated. Most documents can now be uploaded online, eliminating the need to repeatedly visit the Passport Seva Kendra. However, if the application form is found to be incomplete or contains incorrect information, it may be rejected outright.
Digital Police Verification Saves Time
Police verification was the biggest delay in passport issuance. Under the new rules, digital coordination will be established between various departments, allowing background checks to be completed in a shorter time. In some cases, passports will be issued first, followed by police verification. The government has clarified that security standards will not be compromised in this process.
The online system will be more robust
The passport portal has been completely upgraded, making the entire process, from application to appointment, online. Applicants will be able to check their application status in real time and receive updates via mobile or email. This will eliminate the need for agents or middlemen and increase transparency.
Children’s Passport Rules Simplified
The government has also simplified the rules related to passports for minors. Digital birth certificates, school IDs, and parental consent documents will now be readily accepted. This will speed up the process of obtaining passports for children.
New Passport Centers to Open in Small Towns
To make passport services accessible to the public, the government is working on a plan to open new passport centers in smaller towns and rural areas. This will relieve people of the hassle of traveling to larger cities.
Overall, the new Passport Rules for 2026 are a major step towards Digital India. These changes will not only speed up the process but also make it more secure and reliable.