A passport is an essential document required when travelling outside one’s country. While obtaining a passport in India may typically take 7 to 10 days, just getting an appointment can be challenging. You never know when the need for a passport may arise, so you must apply for it today. 

You must be familiar with the blue passport. There are three other kinds of passports that are available in different colours. Let’s learn more about them. 

Ordinary passports

The ordinary passport, also known as the regular passport, is the most common type issued to Indian citizens for general travel purposes. It contains standard biographical information and is valid for ten years for adults and five years for minors. 

Diplomatic passports

Indian diplomats are issued a distinct type of passport, which holds a higher status. This passport is provided to officials holding positions such as IAS and IPS ranks. Moreover, officers serving as Cabinet Secretary also receive this VIP passport. This type of passport has a maroon colour. 

White passports

Individuals who travel abroad for official purposes are issued white passports. It is considered the most powerful passport in India. These passports are only for government officials undertaking international travel for official government business. 

Orange passports

This passport is issued to regular citizens who don't possess necessary education requirements (i.e., education above class 10). Orange passports aim to protect individuals pursuing employment opportunities overseas from exploitation or scam.

To apply for a passport online, follow these steps:

•    Visit the official website for Passport Seva.
•    Click on ‘New User’ to register. Provide the required information and create a login ID. 
•    Log in to the Passport Seva portal and click on ‘Apply for Passport.’ Fill in the required information. 
•    Select the nearest passport office. 
•    Make the payment and schedule an appointment at the selected passport office. 
•    Visit the office on the day of appointment and carry all the necessary documents with you. 
•    After the verification process and a visit by a police officer at your house, your passport will be delivered to your address via post within 7 to 20 days.