Applying for a passport is very important these days as it acts as a travel document for visa stamping and at times can be used for identification.  

Here below are some questions you should ask yourself before applying for a passport.

What is a passport and why is it necessary?

The passport is an official document issued to the citizen of the country by the government for travel to foreign countries. It also confirms the identity of the passport holder. The ones issued in India certify that these holders are citizens of the republic of India.

This official document issued by the government certifies the holder’s citizenship and identity. If an individual of the country wishes to travel to other countries, the passport is mandatory as it serves as the only acceptable form of identification. This passport can also be used as an identity document for other purposes within the country.

What are the types of Passport Issued in India?

3 types of passport are issued by the government of India under the Passport Act 1967 and they are as follows

Type P (Ordinary Passport) – These are the basic passports issued to the ordinary individuals. P denotes ‘Personal’. Type P passports are used by the citizen's foe normal travel purposes such as holiday or business. Type P passports have a navy blue color.

Type S (Official Passport) – Official passports are issued to the people you travel abroad on behalf of the government. The S denotes ‘Service’ Type S passports have a white cover

Type D (Diplomatic Passport) - Diplomatic passports are issued to the people who are posted abroad by the government or travel for works in association with the government. D denotes ‘Diplomat Type D passports have a red cover

How do I apply for a passport?

Step I: Visit the official website of Passport Seva

Step II: Gather details regarding the present procedure for application and register in the Passport Seva Website as a new user.

Step III: Fill the form with the necessary details and submit once the process is completed.

Step IV: Once the registration is done, you have to choose a mode of payment. Mode of payments is broadly classified into two modes

• Online Mode: As the name suggests, the fee is paid online with the help of a secure payment gateway
• Offline Mode: If the preferred mode of payment is offline, download the receipt and use it to pay the fee in the nearest SBI branch

Step V: After a successful payment of the fee, login to your account and choose the appointment date and slot at the Passport Seva Kendra. Take a print out of the passport application form receipt with the bar-code, time and date of the appointment.

Step VI: Reach the Passport Seva Kendra well ahead of your appointment with the necessary documents and passport application receipt.

What are the documents I should carry while applying for the Passport?

Proof of age: Birth Certificate or School leaving certificate

Proof of residence: Water Bill, Electricity Bill, Aadhar Card, Voter ID, ration card, telephone bill and a copy of bank passbook.

Passport is a very important document for traveling and identification purposes and it’s essential to have one. If you’re looking to apply for one, contact passport agents to get assistance and a clear idea of the entire process.