Documents Required for a Child's Passport Application

Applying for a child’s passport in India involves a detailed and meticulous documentation process. Whether it’s for a newborn or a minor under 18 years of age, the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) has laid down strict rules and requirements to ensure that all documentation is genuine and in proper order. Below, we offer a complete and comprehensive guide on all documents needed for passport application for children in India, covering every scenario—from both parents being present, to single parent applications, and more.

Who is Considered a Minor for Passport Application?

In the context of the Indian Passport Act, a minor is defined as any individual below 18 years of age. Children, regardless of their age, must hold an individual passport. Endorsement on a parent’s passport is no longer valid.

Basic Documents Required for All Minors

For all minor applicants, the following mandatory documents must be submitted at the time of application:

1. Birth Certificate (Mandatory)

• Issued by: Municipal Authority or any office authorized to issue Birth and Death Certificate by the Registrar of Births & Deaths.

• Important: The name of the child must be clearly mentioned.

2. Proof of Address (Any one of the following in parent’s name):

• Aadhaar Card

• Water/Electricity/Telephone/Gas bill

• Rent Agreement

• Bank Statement

• Income Tax Assessment Order

• Parent's Passport copy (if address matches)

3. Proof of Identity (Any one of the following in parent’s name):

• Aadhaar Card

• Voter ID

• PAN Card

• Driving License

• Passport

4. Annexure ‘H’ – Declaration by Parents

• A signed declaration by both parents or legal guardian confirming the details furnished in the application.

• This annexure must be on plain paper and properly filled and signed.

Cases Where Both Parents Hold Valid Passports

If both parents possess valid passports and the minor’s present address matches the address in either of the parent’s passports, the passport issuance process is smooth and police verification may be waived.

Required Documents:

• Copy of both parents’ valid passports (self-attested).

• Annexure H.

• Minor’s Birth Certificate.

Single Parent or One Parent Not Available

If only one parent is applying or the other parent is unavailable due to separation, divorce, or other reasons, additional documentation is needed.

Case 1: Divorced or Separated Parent

• Court decree or legal custody document.

• Annexure C (Affidavit for single parent/guardian).

• Annexure H.

Case 2: One Parent Deceased

• Death certificate of the deceased parent.

• Annexure H signed by the surviving parent.

Case 3: Child Born Out of Wedlock or Adopted

• Adoption deed (if adopted).

• Self-declaration regarding single parentage (Annexure C).

• Annexure H.

Passport Application for Newborns

For infants or newborn baby passports, the following documents are essential:

• Birth Certificate

• Passport-size photographs of the child (usually 4.5x3.5 cm, white background)

• Address and ID proof of parents

• Annexure H

• Aadhaar card of parents (recommended but not mandatory for the child)

Note: Even if the child is a few days old, a separate passport is required.

Tatkal Passport for Minors

Getting a passport under Tatkal for a minor is possible but comes with additional scrutiny. Police verification might be required post-issuance. The following additional documents are required:

• Valid passports of parents.

• Additional Annexure I (Verification Certificate from a Gazetted officer, if requested).

• Tatkal fee payment.

ECNR Eligibility for Minors

Generally, all minors are eligible for ECNR (Emigration Check Not Required) status. However, this must be checked during the application process to avoid future travel issues.

Photograph Requirements for Child’s Passport

• Color photo with white background

• 4.5 cm x 3.5 cm in size

• Face must be clearly visible with no headgear (except for religious reasons)

• Eyes open, mouth closed, and child looking directly at the camera

Online Application Process: A Step-by-Step Summary

1. Register at the Passport Seva Portal.

2. Login and fill out the application form for a minor.

3. Upload documents (optional) or carry them in person.

4. Book an appointment at the nearest PSK/POPSK.

5. Pay the fee online or offline.

6. Visit PSK with the child and required documents.

7. Police Verification may or may not be needed depending on the documentation.

Police Verification for Minor’s Passport

In most cases where both parents have valid passports, police verification is not required. However, in cases involving a single parent, guardianship disputes, or other special conditions, police verification may be initiated before or after issuance.

Important Notes for Parents

• Both parents must be physically present at the PSK unless one parent has provided a Notarized Affidavit or Annexure C.

• Ensure that the documents submitted are not expired and match the address provided in the application form.

• Minor passports are usually issued with a validity of 5 years or until the child turns 18, whichever is earlier.

FAQs Related to Child Passport Application

Q1: Can a minor apply without both parents present?
Yes, with Annexure C and proper documentation proving guardianship or consent.

Q2: Is Aadhaar Card mandatory for child passport?
No, but it is highly recommended as it can simplify address and identity proof.

Q3: Can I renew a child’s passport before it expires?
Yes, you can apply for re-issue 1 year before the expiry or if pages are exhausted.

Q4: Is passport mandatory for children traveling abroad?
Yes, all children regardless of age must hold individual passports for international travel.

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