A passport is an official government document issued to its citizens, which serves as a form of identification and allows the holder to travel internationally. It certifies the holder's identity and nationality, granting them permission to enter and exit foreign countries. Passports typically include essential information about the bearrier, such as their full name, date of birth, photograph, and other identifying details.

The primary purpose of a passport is to ensure secure and legal international travel. When someone travels to another country, they are required to present their passport to immigration authorities upon entry and exit. The authorities use the information in the passport to verify the traveller’s identity and nationality, as well as to ensure they have the necessary legal permissions to enter the country.

Passports are crucial documents for international travellers and are essential for crossing international borders by air, sea, or land. Different countries have specific requirements for passport validity and visa regulations, so it is essential to check the entry requirements of the destination country well in advance before traveling. Passport validity typically ranges from a few years to ten years, depending on the country that issues it.

The purpose of a passport is primarily to serve as a legal and internationally recognized document that:

  • Verifies Identity
  • Confirms Nationality
  • Facilitates International Travel
  • Ensures Security
  • Satisfies Visa Requirements
  • Ensures International Records

Document Required for Passport

To apply for an Indian passport, the following documents are typically required:

Proof of Address: You need to submit one of the following documents as proof of your current address:

  • Aadhaar Card
  • Voter ID card
  • Utility bill (electricity, water, telephone, etc.)
  • Bank statement
  • Rent agreement
  • Registered sale/lease agreement
  • Income Tax Assessment Order
  • Gas connection bill

Proof of Date of Birth: You need to provide one of the following documents as proof of your date of birth:

  • Birth certificate issued by the Municipal Authority or Registrar of Births and Deaths
  • School leaving certificate or Secondary School Leaving Certificate (SSLC) or Certificate of Recognized Boards from the school last attended by the applicant or any other recognized educational institution
  • Affidavit sworn before a Magistrate/Notary stating the date of birth

Passport

Any government-issued ID containing a photograph and date of birth

  • Photo Identity Proof: You need to provide a photo identity proof with your application. Acceptable documents include Aadhaar Card, Voter ID card, PAN card, driving license, etc.
  • Passport-sized Photographs: You will need several recent passport-sized photographs with a white background.
  • Marriage Certificate (if applicable): If you are married, you may need to submit a marriage certificate as proof of your marital status.

How strong Indian Passport is …

A strong passport typically allows its holders to travel to a large number of countries without the need to obtain a visa in advance. This is particularly convenient for travellers as it saves time, effort, and additional costs associated with visa applications. It also offers the passport holder greater freedom and flexibility in choosing travel destinations.

On the other hand, a weak passport provides fewer visa-free or visa-on-arrival options, which can restrict the mobility of its holders and make international travel more cumbersome. Holders of weak passports may face more stringent visa application procedures and encounter limitations on the countries they can visit.

It's essential to note that the strength of a passport can change over time, depending on international relations, visa policies, and other factors. Global Passport Indexes

The Henley Passport Ranking for 2023 lists the Indian passport as being at 85th place, as of February 2023. Indian passport holders can travel to a total of 59 countries, visa-free.