Student Passport Application Guide

Setting out to travel to seek higher instruction overseas is an energising and transformative experience. The thrill of going abroad for further education is an unmatched experience. As a student enthusiastic to investigate new skylines, one significant step is procuring a student passport. For Indian students yearning to consider overseas education, getting a student passport is a necessity. It may get overwhelming for individuals to navigate through the application process and this is where guidance comes into play. This comprehensive article will talk about the step-by-step preparation required to apply for a student passport for international travel in India.

A student passport is a specialised trip document issued to scholars looking to study abroad. It is a sanctioned identification and trip document allowing students to pursue their educational endeavours in foreign countries. The passport for students in India generally includes particular information, such as the individual's name, photograph, date of birth, and applicable visa information. Visa is an essential document that is going to It's a vital document that grants the right to travel internationally for education to students. It ensures they can enter and stay fairly in their chosen location of study.

For the most part, student passports are not different from typical travel passports and can be used for worldwide trips. So, the necessities for a passport for students in India are the same as a typical international passport requirement.

1. Gather Required Documents

Begin by gathering the vital documents, counting identity proof (such as an Aadhaar card, PAN card, or voter ID), confirmation of address (such as electricity bills or rental assertion), proof of date of birth (birth certificate or school certificate), and schooling proof documents (mark sheets, letter of admission, or Institution-provided bonafide certificate).

2. Online Application

Visit the official site of the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) and enrol as a new applicant. Fill in the online passport application form precisely, giving all the required details and selecting the suitable passport type (Tatkal or Normal).

3. Schedule an Appointment

After submitting the online application, plan an appointment at the closest Visa Seva Kendra or Visa Office. Select a helpful date and time for your visit.

4. Visit the Passport Seva Kendra

On the assigned day, visit the Passport Seva Kendra with all the required documents in unique and photocopies. Carry your application reference number, receipt of payment, and any extra records as given on the website.

5. Biometric Data Collection

The Passport Seva Kendra collects your biometric information. This comprises of fingerprints and photos. It is necessary to dress appropriately and comply with the rules given on the website.

6. Pay the Fees

The expenses for the necessary visa application can be done online or directly at the Passport Seva Kendra counter. The charge structure may shift depending on the sort of visa (Tatkal or Ordinary) and the number of pages.

7. Passport Police Verification for Students

You will get a call from your closest police station for in-person confirmation. Once the police verification is done, the passport will be printed.

8. Track Application Status

Individuals can keep a check on their application status online via the application reference number provided. Once your passport is prepared, you will get an SMS or email notification.

9. Receive the Passport

Once your student passport is endorsed, your student passport ID will be couriered to your enrolled address through courier.

Related Blog: How Police Verification for Passport is Done in India? 

Certain criteria are required for individuals to be deemed eligible for a student passport in India. It's important to adhere to these eligibility criteria to ensure a smooth student passport operation process:-

1. The aspirant must be an Indian citizen.
2. The college of admission has to be officially recognised.
3. They must have valid evidence of admission or registration in a foreign educational program. 
4. Approval from parents and documentation are needed for minors seeking a student passport in India.  
5. The aspirant can self-attest their form and documents if the aspirant is a legally adult citizen.
6. Other documents may be needed, like a Bonafide certificate for a passport from the educational institution.

The application for a student passport in India requires individuals to possess certain documents. Without these, the application process may face hindrances. The documents serve as proof of identity, address, birth date and schooling history. Go through the documents mentioned below:

1. Proof of Identity

Documents similar to an Aadhaar card, voter ID card, PAN card, or driving license can be provided as evidence of identity. It is not mandatory to have a student’s passport-size picture. A photo will be taken at the passport office when applying for a new passport.

2. Proof of Address

Bills like electricity, water, gas, bank statements, rental agreements, or a letter from an identified educational institution can be evidence of address.

3. Date of Birth Proof

A birth certificate issued by the megacity or any other recognised authority, an academy leaving instrument, or a certificate provided by a birth and death registrar is accepted as valid date of birth evidence.

4. Educational Documents

All admission details of the college in which the individual is enrolled have to be presented. Along with this, result sheets, past degrees and bonafide certificates may be required.

5. Parental Consent Evidence (Valid for Minors)

If you're under 18 years of age, you must give a consent letter from your parents or guardians.

Also Read: What is Covered by Travel Insurance?

Renewing a student passport in India involves a straightforward process and is generally the same as applying for a new passport. Follow this easy way for a smooth renewal:

1. Online Application

After visiting the sanctioned Passport Seva website, click on the” Renew Passport" option. Put in the respective information and passport details required in the form.

2. Document Submission

Provide the needed documents along with the application. These may include the current passport, evidence of address, and evidence of any changes in particular details (if applicable).

3. Fee Payment

Pay the renewal fee online or at the Passport Seva Kendra counter. The passport renewal fee is lower than a new passport application and may vary depending on the number of runners needed.

4. Appointment and Biometric Data Collection

Record an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra. Visit the centre on the appointed day to give biometric data (fingerprints and photos).

5. Track Application Status

Track operation Status - After submitting the renewal application, you'll get a call for police verification. Once that’s done, you can track the status online using the reference number provided for the application. Once the renewal is completed, you'll get an SMS or email.

6. Passport Delivery

After verification, collect your renewed student passport from the Passport Seva Kendra or choose delivery through a courier service.

Also Read: Reasons for Students to Get Health Insurance

The time taken to gain a student passport in India can vary depending on several factors, including the workload at the Passport Seva Kendra or Passport Office, the accuracy of your application, and the type of passport service opted for. While the processing times are subject to change, here is a general timeframe:-

1. Normal Application

For a regular or normal student passport application, the processing time is generally around 30 to 45 days from the submission date of the application. This includes verifying documents, background checks, and publishing the passport.

2. Tatkal Application

The processing time is shorter if you choose the Tatkal (expedited) service. The Tatkal service is designed for critical cases, and the passport is provided within 1 to 3 working days, subject to police verification.

Obtaining a student passport is a crucial step for Indian students aspiring to study abroad. By following this comprehensive guide, applicants can navigate the process seamlessly, ensuring a smooth journey toward achieving their academic dreams.