A passport is an important document. It helps easily identify a person and proves their citizenship. It is also the most essential document for traveling to another country. Recently, the central government has amended the rules for Indian passports. Let’s take a look at the changes made by the government.

According to the amended rules, people born on or after October 1, 2023, must provide their birth certificate when applying for a passport. The most important thing to note is that this birth certificate must be issued by the Municipal Corporation or any other authority authorized under the Birth and Death Registration Act, 1969.

Documents Required for a Passport

This rule does not apply to applicants born before October 1, 2023. They can still get a passport by submitting other documents, such as:

  • Birth certificate issued by the Registrar of Births and Deaths, Municipal Corporation, or any other authorized authority.
  • Matriculation certificate from the last school attended.
  • An identity card issued by the Election Commission.
  • PAN card (mandatory).

However, Aadhaar card, e-Aadhaar, EPIC (Voter ID), PAN card, driving license, and pension payment order will be accepted as proof of date of birth only if they mention the correct date of birth.

Documents Required for Address Proof

To apply for a passport, you must also provide proof. Accepted documents include:

  • Water bill
  • Landline or postpaid mobile bill
  • Electricity bill
  • Identity card issued by the Election Commission
  • Gas connection proof
  • Spouse’s passport copy
  • Parent’s passport copy (for a minor’s passport)
  • Bank account passbook

According to the Passport Seva online portal, submitting an Aadhaar card will speed up the passport application process.

Passport Service Website Will Be Down for Five Days

The Passport Seva website will not be available for five days due to maintenance work. Applicants should plan their applications accordingly.