Student Passport Application Guide

In India, students can apply for a passport online through the Passport Seva portal. During the application process, they need to submit documents, schedule an appointment, and undergo verification. Police and biometric verification are also part of the student passport acquisition process. The passport will typically be issued within a few weeks, depending on the application type.

In India, there is no separate passport category specifically for students. However, the term ‘student passport’ is commonly used to refer to a regular Indian passport obtained by individuals planning to study abroad. Students generally apply for a regular Indian passport through the prescribed application process.

A passport is an official travel document issued by the Government of India that allows international travel, subject to visa and immigration requirements. It typically contains details such as the passport holder’s name, date of birth, photograph and other identification-related information.

The following individuals can apply for a student passport in India:

• Any Indian citizen can apply for a passport.
• Students planning to study abroad or currently pursuing education overseas may apply for a passport, subject to eligibility requirements.

To apply for a student passport in India, the following are the basic eligibility requirements:

• You must be an Indian citizen.
• You must have updated and accurate documents, such as proof of identity, date of birth, and residence.
• If the applicant is a minor, parental consent and supporting documents may be required as per applicable passport rules.

Note: Enrolment in an educational institution is not mandatory for applying for a passport in India.

For any trip overseas, providing various documents is essential. A passport is an essential travel document for individuals planning to study abroad. The procedure is similar to that of a regular passport application. 

The following is a step-by-step guide:

• Step 1: Visit the official website ‘Passport Seva’ to start the application.
• Step 2: Look for the ‘Register’ button on the navigation menu, fill in the details and sign up. Log in to the online portal.
• Step 3: On the dashboard, click the ‘Services’ button, then look for the application option.
• Step 4: Select the Regional Passport Office (RPO) on the basis of your residential location. This selection shows the nearest Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) available for the appointment.
• Step 5: After RPO selection, the instructions page will load, which may include passport type, application details, family details, and address details. The steps vary depending on the type of service.
• Step 6: Submit the student passport application, and an Application Reference Number (ARN) will be generated.
• Step 7: Start the payment and schedule appointment process. Use the Schedule/Reschedule Appointment link to make changes.
• Step 8: You will receive an SMS on the registered mobile number with the appointment date and details.
• Step 9: On the appointment day, carry the required original documents while visiting the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).
   

The documents required for a passport for students are:

• Identity proof, such as PAN card, driving licence, Aadhaar Card, etc.
• Documents for proof of residence, such as utility bills or rental agreements.
• Date of birth proof, such as a birth certificate, school leaving certificate or other acceptable documents as specified by passport authorities.
• Educational documents like higher secondary mark sheets, admission letters, etc.
• If the applicant is a minor, a copy of the parents’ passports and their declaration may be required.
• The passport officials may ask for additional documents if necessary.

To check the status of a student’s passport application, you can:

• Visit the official ‘Passport Seva’ portal. 

• Click on ‘Track Application Status’. 

• Select the application type.

• Enter your file number and date of birth.

• Click ‘Track’ to view the current status.

To renew a passport, you can take the following steps:

• Visit the Portal: Register or log in on the ‘Passport Seva’ portal.

• Fill Application: Click the ‘Apply for Fresh Passport/Reissue of Passport’ option and select the ‘Re-issue’ option.

• Payment and Appointment: Pay the fee online and select a PSK for a scheduled appointment.

• Visit PSK: Visit the Kendra with the original documents and receipt.

• Verification: Police verification may be conducted depending on the application type, passport status and applicable guidelines.

• Delivery: The new passport will be sent to the provided address.

The fees for a student passport application can vary based on the applicant’s age and the number of pages included in the passport. Passport application fees may vary depending on the passport type, validity, booklet size and applicable government charges. Applicants should refer to the official Passport Seva portal for the latest fee structure. Additional fees may apply for larger passport booklets or specific application categories. 

Fees applicable to minor passports may vary depending on the service category and prevailing government guidelines. For some types of applications, the Tatkal service can cost more.

Listed below are important tips to remember during the passport application process:

• Ensure that all the required documents are valid.

• Begin the application process at least a few months in advance.

• Apply through official sources.

• Pair the student passport with insurance to safeguard yourself.

SBI General Insurance offers travel insurance plans with coverage features that can help travellers manage certain travel-related uncertainties, subject to policy terms and conditions. It covers medical emergencies, personal accidents, personal liabilities and other unfortunate events.

Getting a student passport in India may take a few weeks. The exact time required for processing may depend on factors such as the completeness of the application, the type of service, and the response time at the passport centre.

The duration of the appointment process at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) may vary depending on the application volume and verification requirements.

Applying for a student passport in India is straightforward. By using the Passport Seva portal, students can complete the application, schedule appointments, and track their passport status online with ease.

Along with obtaining a passport, having travel insurance from SBI General Insurance can also help students stay financially protected during their international journey.

1. How to apply for a passport as a student?

Students can apply for a passport online through the Passport Seva portal by registering, filling out the application form, and booking an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).

2. Can I get my passport if I'm 17 years old?

Yes, a 17-year-old can apply for a passport in India. Since the applicant is still a minor, parental consent and supporting documents from parents or guardians may be required.

3. How long does passport processing take?

Passport processing in India may take a few weeks, depending on document and police verification, as well as the type of application submitted.