New Delhi : The Ministry of External Affairs of India has introduced amendments to passport issuance rules, making birth certificates mandatory proof of date of birth for individuals born on or after October 1, 2023. The new regulations, titled the Passports (Amendment) Rules 2025, came into effect on February 28, 2025.
Key Changes in Passport Rules
As per the latest amendments, individuals born on or after October 1, 2023, will be required to submit a birth certificate as the sole valid proof of their date of birth. The birth certificate must be issued by:
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The Registrar of Births and Deaths,
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The Municipal Corporation, or
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Any other authority authorized under the Registration of Births and Deaths Act, 1969 (18 of 1969).
Alternative Documents for Those Born Before October 1, 2023
Individuals born before the cut-off date can continue to use a variety of documents as proof of date of birth for passport applications. These include:
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Birth Certificate issued by the Registrar of Births and Deaths, Municipal Corporation, or other designated authority.
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School Records such as transfer, school leaving, or matriculation certificates issued by recognized educational institutions or boards.
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Permanent Account Number (PAN) Card issued by the Income Tax Department, provided it includes the applicant’s date of birth.
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Service Records or Pay Pension Orders for government employees, duly certified by the concerned administrative officer.
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Driving License issued by the state transport authority, mentioning the applicant’s date of birth.
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Election Photo Identity Card (EPIC) issued by the Election Commission of India.
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Policy Bonds from Life Insurance Corporation (LIC) or public sector insurance companies containing the policyholder’s date of birth.
Background and Previous Regulations
Previously, the Indian government had set a January 26, 1989 cut-off date, requiring individuals born after this date to mandatorily provide a birth certificate for passport applications. However, this requirement was permanently removed in 2016, allowing applicants to submit alternative documents for proof of date of birth.
The latest amendment reinstates the birth certificate requirement, but only for individuals born on or after October 1, 2023, ensuring uniform documentation standards for younger applicants.
Implementation and Compliance
The new rules have already been implemented as of February 28, 2025. Applicants who fall under the new mandate must ensure they procure their birth certificates from the designated authorities. The move aims to streamline passport issuance processes and enhance document verification efficiency.
For further details, applicants are advised to visit the official website of the Ministry of External Affairs or their nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).
