India offers several types of passports, which are essential documents validating the citizenship of Indian citizens under the Passport Act of 1967. The Ministry of External Affairs issues passports in the country. With an Indian passport, travelers can travel to many countries either through visa-free or visa-on-arrival arrangements.
Indian passports come in a variety of forms, ranging from the standard navy blue passport to the more advanced e-passport. Indian passports are classified into two main groups: digital or online ‘e-passports’ and physical, offline passports. Within the physical passport category, there are five types, each corresponding to specific citizenship statuses, diplomatic roles or educational backgrounds.
Different passport colors are used to distinguish these types, streamlining immigration and security processes. Below is a list of different types of Indian passports.
What is a passport?
A passport is a travel document issued by a government that certifies the nationality of the holder. It allows individuals to travel internationally as proof of citizenship. Passports generally contain personal information such as the holder’s name, date of birth, photograph and nationality, as well as a unique passport number.
Indian passport is issued by the Ministry of External Affairs to Indian citizens for the purpose of international travel and stands as proof of Indian citizenship as per the Passport Act (1967).
Types of Indian Passport
different indian passports
Ordinary or Type P Passport (Navy Blue)
The navy blue passport is the most commonly issued type, meant for regular citizens for general travel, such as business, tourism or education. Any Indian can apply for this passport through the regular application process. It is valid for five years for minors under 18 years of age and ten years for adults. It is also known as a ‘Type P’ passport, where ‘P’ stands for individual.
Official or Type S passport (white)
White passports are issued to government officials, bureaucrats and others traveling abroad for official diplomatic work. This is for officials who do not have full diplomatic status. This passport is usually valid for the period of official assignment. It is a ‘Type S’ passport, where ‘S’ stands for service.
Diplomatic Passport (Maroon)
Maroon passports are issued to high-ranking government officials such as diplomats, consuls and members of the Indian Foreign Service. This passport grants diplomatic immunities and privileges including seamless customs and immigration procedures abroad. It is issued to diplomats and their family members.
Emergency Certificate (Grey)
Gray Emergency Certificate is issued to Indian citizens living abroad who have lost or stolen their original passport. It is a temporary document, not a full passport, and allows them to travel back to India in case of emergency. This certificate is issued by Indian Embassy and Consulates and is valid for a single journey.
Immigration Passport (Orange)
Orange immigration passports are issued to individuals who have not completed their formal education and seek employment abroad. It is available to adults over 50 or minors above 18 who do not meet specific educational requirements.
Online or e-passport
An e-passport, also known as a biometric passport, contains an electronic chip that holds the passport holder’s information, including biometric data such as fingerprints and iris scans as well as other relevant information. India introduced e-passport to increase the security of its travel documents. These passports are tamper-proof with embedded security features.
General FAQ
What are the different types of passports in India?
India offers five types of passports, including ordinary (navy blue), official (white), diplomatic (maroon), emergency certificate (grey), and immigration passport (orange). Additionally, India issues e-passports, which contain biometric data for better security.
What is ordinary passport in India?
Ordinary passport, or “Type P” passport, is navy blue in color and is issued to regular citizens for general travel purposes such as business, tourism or education. It is valid for five years for minors and ten years for adults.
What is the difference between a diplomatic passport and an official passport?
Diplomatic passports (maroon) are issued to high-ranking officials such as diplomats and consuls, granting diplomatic immunity and privileges. Official passports (white) are issued to government officials and bureaucrats for official travel but do not confer full diplomatic status.
What is an emergency certificate and when is it used?
Gray Emergency Certificate is a temporary travel document issued to Indian citizens living abroad who have lost or stolen their passport. It allows them to return to India in case of emergency and is valid for one trip.
What is e-passport in India?
E-passport, or biometric passport, contains an electronic chip that contains the passport holder’s information, including fingerprints and iris scans. It is designed to increase security and prevent tampering.
