A significant change has occurred in the process of obtaining passports in India. The Pune Regional Passport Office has introduced a new mandate, requiring individuals born on or after October 1, 2023, to provide a birth certificate when applying for a passport. This update aligns with the Registration of Births and Deaths (Amendment) Act 2023, aiming to establish the birth certificate as conclusive evidence of both the date and place of birth.
The Birth Certificate Requirement:
The new requirement, as shared by the X handle of the Regional Passport Office Pune, necessitates that individuals born after October 1, 2023, must furnish their birth certificate when applying for a passport. This document will serve as vital proof of their birth date and place.
Additionally, applicants must provide an address proof document, which can be in either the child’s or parent’s name. Acceptable documents include a passport, Aadhaar card, current rent agreement, or utility bills. In the case of minor applicants, both parents are required to provide consent through Annexure D. If either or both parents do not possess passports, alternatives such as Aadhaar or Voter ID cards are acceptable.
Applicant’s Appointment and Parental Presence:
As per the new provisions, during the appointment process, at least one parent should be present with the passport of both parents. This parental presence has become a prerequisite for the passport application process, ensuring compliance with the new regulations.
Birth Certificate’s Expanding Role:
The birth certificate’s significance has now transcended the passport application process. It has become a central document for various essential tasks, including securing admission to educational institutions, obtaining a driver’s license, and registering marriages. Furthermore, it plays a crucial role in government appointments, passport issuance, Aadhaar registration, and any other purposes determined by the Central Government.
Conclusion:
For parents of minor applicants born on or after October 1, 2023, understanding and adhering to this new mandate is essential. It will not only facilitate a smooth passport application process but also ensure compliance with an evolving legal landscape regarding the use of birth certificates.
