A passport is an essential document that enables travel across international borders. The Indian passport number is a unique identification number that is assigned to every Indian passport holder. In this article, we will provide an overview of what Indian passport number is, how to apply for it, and the security measures in place to protect it.

Key Takeaways

• Indian passport number is a unique identification number assigned to Indian passport holders.
• To apply for an Indian passport number, one needs to fill up an online application form and visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) for further processing.
• Indian passport numbers come in two formats – the old seven-digit format and the new alphanumeric format.
• The Indian passport number is essential for travel and other purposes, such as applying for visas and opening a bank account.
• Indian passport numbers need to be renewed every ten years.
• The Indian government has implemented several security measures to safeguard Indian passport numbers from forgery and theft.

Definition of Indian Passport Number

The Indian passport number is a unique identification number assigned to every Indian passport holder. It is a combination of letters and numbers that is used to identify an individual’s passport details. The passport number is printed on the data page of the passport and can be found at the bottom of the page.

How to Apply for an Indian Passport Number

To apply for an Indian passport number, one needs to fill up an online application form at the official website of the Ministry of External Affairs. After filling up the form, one needs to visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) for biometric verification and further processing.

The following documents are required to apply for an Indian passport number:

• Proof of Address
• Proof of Date of Birth
• Identity proof
• Educational qualification certificates
• One recent passport size photograph
• Proof of payment of application fee

Types of Indian Passport Numbers

Indian passport numbers come in two different formats:

• The old seven-digit format (starting with an alphabet followed by six digits)
• The new alphanumeric format (starting with two alphabets followed by seven digits)

Importance of an Indian Passport Number

The Indian passport number is essential for all travel purposes, including international travel, as it serves as proof of identity and citizenship. Additionally, the passport number is required for various purposes, such as applying for visas, opening a bank account, and even applying for a new job.

How to Renew an Indian Passport Number

Indian passport numbers need to be renewed every ten years. The process of renewing an Indian passport number is the same as applying for a new passport number. One can apply for passport renewal eight months before the expiry of their passport.

Passport Security Measures for Indian Passport Numbers

The Indian government has implemented several security measures to safeguard Indian passport numbers from forgery and theft. Some of the measures include:

• Biometric verification during passport application and renewal
• Use of high-quality paper for printing passports
• Introduction of electronic passports with embedded microchips containing passport holder information
• Passport tracking system to monitor the movement of passports during processing
• Implementation of advanced forensic techniques to detect cases of passport fraud and forgery

These measures have helped to ensure that Indian passport numbers remain secure and tamper-proof.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Indian passport number is a crucial document that serves as proof of identity and citizenship, essential for international travel and other purposes. The process of applying for an Indian passport number involves submitting the necessary documents and completing biometric verification at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). Indian passport numbers need to be renewed every ten years, and the government has implemented various security measures to safeguard them from forgery and theft.

FAQs

1. How long is an Indian passport number valid?

An Indian passport number is valid for ten years from the date of issue. After that, it needs to be renewed.

2. Can I apply for a passport number offline?

No, the process of applying for an Indian passport number is entirely online. However, one needs to visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) for biometric verification and further processing.

3. Is there an age limit for applying for an Indian passport number?

No, there is no age limit for applying for an Indian passport number. However, infants and children need to have a separate passport, and the process is slightly different from that of adults.