The Indian government has introduced significant revisions to the passport application process through the Passports (Amendment) Rules, 2025. A key update is the mandatory submission of birth certificates for individuals born on or after October 1, 2023. This change, officially announced by the Union Ministry of External Affairs on February 24, will take effect once published in the Gazette.
New Passport Rules at a Glance
Under the updated guidelines, only birth certificates issued by municipal corporations, the Registrar of Births and Deaths, or other authorized agencies under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969, will be recognized as valid proof of date of birth. However, those born before October 1, 2023, can still use alternative documents such as a PAN card, Voter ID, school leaving certificate, Class 10 board certificate, driving license, or LIC policy bond to apply for a passport.
Other Significant Changes
Color-coded passports
Government officials will now receive white passports, diplomats will be issued red ones, while regular citizens will continue to have blue passports.
Omission of parents’ names
To enhance privacy, passport holders will no longer be required to mention their parents’ names.
Updated address system
Residential addresses will no longer be printed on the last page of passports. Instead, a barcode will be incorporated to allow immigration authorities to retrieve the necessary details.
Expansion of Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs)
The government plans to increase the number of PSKs from the current 442 to 600 over the next five years, making passport services more accessible across the country.
