It’s probable that when you think of an Indian passport, you imagine the well-known navy blue book that millions of people use when they travel abroad. However, did you know that India actually issues passports in four different colors — orange, red, white, and blue? Not only is each hue fashionable, but it also conveys a message about the wearer’s identity, social standing, or line of work.
The color of your passport can quietly represent who you are to the world, including diplomats, government officials, and regular individuals. Are you curious about the information on your passport? Let’s unravel the color codes!
Blue Color: Personal Passport
The most popular passport given to Indian nationals is the blue passport, sometimes referred to as the Type P (Personal/Ordinary Passport). This passport is usually valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors under the age of 18, and it is intended for personal travel such as tourism, business, education, or family visits. Based on the applicant’s preference, it has either 36 or 60 pages. All Indian nationals can obtain a blue passport, which is used for non-official overseas travel by presenting proof of identification, address, and citizenship.
White Color: Official Passport
Only government employees, such as civil servants and military personnel, who go abroad on official business, are eligible for the white passport. It may grant perks at immigration counters and serve as a mark of official status. It is now available as an e-passport with secure RFID chips to prevent manipulation, just like the blue passport.
It is more difficult to get a white passport. A government-issued ID, a duty certificate from their place of employment, an official forwarding letter, and approval from the Prime Minister’s Office (PMO) are required of applicants. By taking these measures, official travel is kept safe and closely watched.
Red Color: Diplomatic Passport
Only India’s diplomatic elite are eligible to use the red passport, also known as Type D (Diplomatic Passport). Diplomats, senior government officials, and people representing India on formal diplomatic assignments are granted this unique passport.
This passport is only available to senior government officials and members of the Indian Foreign Service, and its holder has the right to diplomatic privileges under international law. Additionally, it makes official foreign travel simpler by frequently granting visa-free or simplified access to numerous nations. Bearers with red passports may be granted diplomatic immunity and receive special consideration at airports.
Orange Color: ECR Passport
Indian nationals who are under the Emigration Check Required (ECR) category are granted the orange passport. This usually covers those who are visiting certain nations for work that requires special clearance or who may not have completed a particular level of schooling. The orange passport indicates that additional emigration procedures must be completed before the holder can travel overseas.
Documents Needed To Apply For A Passport
The following documents should be ready when submitting an application for a new regular passport:
- Documentation of birth, such as a birth certificate, matriculation certificate, or school leaving certificate.
- Proof of photo identification, such as a driver’s license, PAN card, voter ID, or Aadhaar card.
- Utility bills (phone, water, electricity, or gas) or a rent or lease agreement serving as proof of residency.
- A voter ID, PAN card, or Aadhaar card as proof of nationality.
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