The Indian government has recently announced important changes in the passport rules for the year 2025.

These changes are aimed at simplifying the passport application process and improving security. Know the key changes, application process and useful tips that have been brought in.

Key changes in passports:

1. Birth certificate mandatory

People born on or after October 1, 2023, will have to submit a birth certificate while applying for a passport. This certificate should be issued by the Registrar of Births and Deaths, Municipal Corporation, or other government bodies.

2. Digitally recorded residential address

The printing of the address on the last page of the passport book has been discontinued. Instead, the address information will be added through a passcode, which improves security.

3. Removal of parents’ names

Parents’ names will no longer be printed in the passport book. This is an effort to protect privacy.

4. Increase in Passport Service Centres

In the next 5 years, the number of Post Office Passport Service Centres is planned to increase from 442 to 600. This will help speed up the application process.

New colour-coding system:

The government has introduced a colour-coding system for passports to streamline identification.

White passports – issued to government officials.

Red passports – reserved for diplomats.

Blue passports – issued to ordinary citizens on a regular basis.

Application process:

Online application – You can apply online through the Passport Service website. You need to fill in the required information and upload the documents.

Documents – Keep important documents like birth certificate, identity cards, and address proof ready.

Interview and police verification – After submitting the application, an interview and police verification will be conducted. This is mandatory before issuing the passport.

Useful Tips :

Prepare Documents in Advance – Having all the required documents ready in advance will make the application process easier.

Avoid Mistakes – Fill the information in the application form correctly, as any errors can cause delays.

Follow the latest rules – Passport rules are subject to change. Therefore, it is important to follow the latest notifications.

Dos and Don’ts while applying for an Indian passport :

Following some important rules while applying for an Indian passport will help in processing the application quickly and smoothly. To avoid any delays or reconsideration in getting your passport, keep the following Dos and Don’ts in mind.

Dos

1. Submit correct and updated documents.

• Birth Certificate (with the same name and date of birth)
• Proof of address (Aadhaar, Address Proof, Bank Account Statement)
• Identity Card (Any Government Document – Driving License, Voter ID)

1. Fill the application carefully

• Double check that all the information is correct.
• Avoid spelling mistakes, overwriting, or incorrect details.

1. Upload a quality photograph

• Attach a passport size (51mm x 51mm) photograph.
• The photograph should be taken on a white background, with your face clearly visible.

1. Remember the interview date and time

• Arrive 15-20 minutes before the scheduled time for document verification.
• Carry all the required documents in original and photocopy.

1. Be prepared for police verification

• Talk to the police station officer in a reasonable manner.
• Have the evidence for address verification ready in advance.

1. Follow proper procedure at passport service centers

• Submit only valid identity documents.
• Do not attempt to submit illegal documents.

Don’ts

1. Do not provide incorrect information

• If there are any mistakes in details like date of birth, address, name, etc., your application may be rejected.
• Avoid providing incorrect foreign travel details.

1. Do not submit incorrect or expired documents

• Do not submit invalid Aadhaar card, old address copies, etc.
• Legal action may be taken if fake documents are submitted.

1. Do not apply late

• Do not delay in renewing or getting a new passport.
• If needed urgently, you can avail Tatkal (urgent) service.

1. Do not approach police verification with contempt

• Do not view police verification as fear.
• Do not refuse to provide the required documents.

1. Don’t trust third-party agents

• Some private agents charge extra fees and offer passport services.
• They may claim to speed up the process. But in reality, they may be committing fraud.
• Apply through the official Indian Government website passportindia.gov.in.
• Do not follow wrong rules.
• As per the new rules, the parents’ names will not appear in the passport.
• The address will not be printed in the passport, it will be added through the QR Code.
• Be clear about the new rules and act accordingly.