India Tightens Passport Rules: Here's What's Changing

The Indian government has revised passport application rules, making significant changes to enhance verification processes and improve service delivery. Key updates include:

1.Mandatory Birth Certificate: Birth certificates are now required for individuals born on or after October 1, 2023, as the sole proof of date of birth.

2.Passport Design Changes: Residential addresses will no longer be printed on passport pages; instead, a scannable barcode will be used for privacy.

3.Color-Coded Passports: A new color-coding system has been introduced—blue for ordinary citizens, white for government officials, and red for diplomats.

4.Expanded Service Centers: The government plans to increase Passport Seva Kendras from 442 to 600 over the next five years to improve accessibility.

Source: The Times of India