Documents Required for a Passport in India: A Simple Checklist

Documents are the most common reason passport applications get held up. Knowing exactly what to carry, and making sure your details match across every document, can save you a repeat visit.

1. Proof of present address

You need a valid document showing where you currently live. Commonly accepted examples include:

• Aadhaar card
• A recent utility bill such as electricity, water, telephone or gas connection
• Bank account passbook
• Registered rent agreement
• Spouse’s passport (where the applicant is named as the spouse)

2. Proof of date of birth

You also need a document that confirms your date of birth. Commonly accepted examples include:

• Birth certificate issued by the Registrar of Births and Deaths or the Municipal Corporation
• School leaving, transfer or matriculation certificate
• PAN card
• Aadhaar card
• Driving licence
• Election Photo Identity Card

For applicants born on or after 1 October 2023, a birth certificate is required as proof of date of birth.

3. Proof for non-ECR status

If you have passed Class 10 (matriculation) or higher, your Class 10 or higher qualification certificate can help you get a passport without an ECR (Emigration Check Required) notation.

4. Extra documents in special cases

• Re-issue: your old passport and copies of its key pages.
• Minors: documents and declarations relating to the parents, as applicable.
• Change of name: documents supporting the change, such as a marriage certificate or official gazette notification.
• Lost passport: a police report and a declaration about the loss.
• Government employees: an identity certificate or no-objection certificate from the employer, where applicable.

Practical tips

1. Carry originals along with self-attested photocopies.
2. Make sure your name, date of birth and address match across documents.
3. Use documents that are valid and current, especially for address proof.
4. Check whether your case needs any declarations (annexures) in the prescribed format.

Please note: This guide is for general information only. Passport rules, documents and fees can change, so always check the latest requirements on the official Passport Seva website before applying. The Passport Project is a private consultancy and is not affiliated with the Ministry of External Affairs, Passport Seva or any Government body.