Indian Diplomatic and Official passports are issued to Indian citizens who hold diplomatic status or to the high-ranking government officials who represent India in foreign or travel abroad for government work. The diplomatic passport is also known as type D passport and has a maroon cover, different from a normal passport with a dark blue cover. Here is who gets diplomatic passports, their benefits and how to apply for them.
Diplomatic/ official passport holders enjoy a special status and hassle-free migration procedure. There are several other benefits of availing a diplomatic passport, but they may vary from country to country. Here are a few common benefits that an Indian diplomatic/ official passport holder can enjoy:
The following individuals can get a diplomatic passport in India:
Normally diplomatic and official passport applications are processed only at the PSP Division, Patiala House, New Delhi. However, applicants can also apply for a diplomatic/ official passport at the passport office near to your present address.
You can apply for a diplomatic passport online by following the below steps:
Eligible applicants who are approved by the Central Government for a diplomatic or official passport need to submit the following documents:
| Particulars | Normal Passport | Diplomatic Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Issued to | Issued to general citizens, including VIP individuals | Issued to high-ranking government officials, such as IFS and EAM officials |
| Usage | Ordinary Indian citizens can get this passport for personal or business travels, without government involvement in it. | Government officials use this passport to travel abroad for the official duty of the Government of India |
| Booklet | The passport booklet comes with 30-60 pages. | The passport booklet comes with only 28 pages. |
| Validity | – For adults: 10 years – For minors: 5 years | Issued for 5 years or less. |
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The following individuals can apply for a diplomatic/ official passport in India:
– Officers in the Branch A and Branch B of the Indian Foreign Services (IFS) and Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) traveling abroad for official duties.
– Officials deputed by the Government of India to travel overseas.
– Family members of the above mentioned diplomatic passport holders.
Register yourself through the Passport Seva Portal online to apply for a diplomatic or official passport in India. Normally diplomatic and official passport applications are accepted only at the PSP Division, Patiala House, New Delhi. However, applicants can also apply for a diplomatic/ official passport at the passport office near to your present address.
Can a diplomatic passport holder apply for an ordinary passport?Yes, a diplomatic passport holder can apply for an ordinary passport. You need to submit address proof, date of birth proof and surrender certificate.
What is the fee required to apply for diplomatic passports?There is no fee for the application of a diplomatic passport.
