The process of obtaining a passport for newborns in India has undergone significant changes post-2024, aimed at streamlining the system and ensuring greater efficiency. With new guidelines and requirements introduced by the Ministry of External Affairs, the documentation and application process has become more straightforward, yet still requires careful attention from parents.
Whether you’re a first-time parent or renewing your child’s passport, it is crucial to be aware of the updated procedures and documents required for passport issuance for newborns. Below, we outline the key changes and the essential documents required for securing a passport for a newborn in India.
Key Changes in the Passport Application Process for Newborns Post-2024
- Simplified Online Application Process: The post-2024 changes have further simplified the application process, reducing paperwork and facilitating the online submission of documents. Parents can now complete the passport application for their newborns through the Passport Seva portal.
- Integration with Aadhaar for Verification: One of the major updates is the integration of Aadhaar with the passport application system. If the newborn is already registered for Aadhaar, the process becomes smoother as the Aadhaar details are used for verification, reducing the chances of document duplication.
- Appointment Flexibility: The system now allows parents to reschedule their passport appointments up to three times without additional charges, providing greater flexibility to working parents.
- Speedier Processing Time: Post-2024, the processing time for newborn passport applications has been reduced, with passports now expected to be issued within 7 to 14 working days from the date of application submission.
Documents Required for Passport for Newborns in India
To apply for a passport for a newborn, parents need to ensure they have all the necessary documents ready. The following is a comprehensive list of documents required for passport applications for newborns:
- Birth Certificate: A mandatory document that confirms the newborn’s date and place of birth. It must be issued by the Municipal Corporation or the registrar of births.
- Proof of Present Address: Parents must provide proof of residence, such as a copy of their Aadhaar card, voter ID card, or utility bills. If the newborn is staying with the grandparents or other guardians, their address proof may be used, but parents must furnish a consent letter.
- Parental Documents: The passports of both parents, along with their Aadhaar cards, are crucial for the application. This ensures that the newborn’s identity and relationship with the parents are verified.
- Photographs: Recent passport-sized photographs of the newborn. Typically, a 4.5 cm x 3.5 cm photograph is required, with specific guidelines on background and image quality.
- Annexure ‘D’ Declaration: A self-declaration form signed by either of the parents stating that they take responsibility for the application details provided.
- Marriage Certificate of Parents (if applicable): If the parents are married, submitting the marriage certificate is required. However, if the parents are divorced or separated, additional documents may be required, including a court order specifying custody of the child.
- Aadhaar Card (if available): While not mandatory, if an Aadhaar card has already been issued for the newborn, it is advisable to include it for quicker verification.
These documents play a critical role in the application process. It’s important to note that failure to provide any of these essential documents can lead to delays or rejections. For a complete guide on the documents required for passport, you can refer to the official page documents required for passport.
How to Apply for a Newborn Passport Post-2024
Applying for a passport for newborn in India post-2024 has become easier, thanks to the online platform and the enhanced user-friendly experience. Here’s a quick step-by-step guide to ensure you complete the process efficiently:
- Register on the Passport Seva Portal: Visit the Passport Seva portal and create an account using your email ID and phone number. After logging in, select the “Fresh Passport” option.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Enter all the details, including the newborn’s name, date of birth, parents’ information, and address. It’s important to double-check these details to avoid discrepancies.
- Upload Required Documents: Scan and upload the required documents such as the birth certificate, parental address proof, and photographs. Make sure the scanned copies are clear and legible.
- Schedule an Appointment: After submitting the form, you will be required to schedule an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra. The system now provides flexibility to reschedule appointments up to three times.
- Visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK): On the appointment date, both parents (or the legal guardian) must be present with the child. Submit the original documents for verification and complete the biometric process.
- Track Application Status: Once the application is submitted, you can track the passport processing status online through the Passport Seva portal. The passport for the newborn is typically dispatched within 7 to 14 working days.
For more detailed steps on applying for a passport for newborn in India, you can visit passport for newborn india.
Conclusion
The changes introduced post-2024 in the passport application process for newborns in India have streamlined the overall procedure, making it more convenient for parents. The integration with Aadhaar and the simplified online submission of documents have made the process efficient, while the reduction in processing time has brought much-needed relief to applicants. However, it is crucial for parents to ensure that they have all the required documents ready to avoid delays. By being aware of the changes and following the steps mentioned, parents can secure their newborn’s passport swiftly and without hassle.