India issues several types of passports, each catering to different categories of citizens and purposes. The main types are:
- Regular Passport (Blue): This is the most common passport issued to ordinary citizens for international travel. It is usedfor tourism, business, education, and personal travel. The blue passport is valid for 10 years for adults and 5 years for minors
- Diplomatic Passport (Maroon): Issued to individuals holding diplomatic positions, such as diplomats, members of the Indian Foreign Service, and high-ranking government officials. It allows for easier travel and certain privileges in foreign countries, such as immunity from certain legal actions, and is valid for a specific period determined by the government.
- Official Passport (White): This passport is issued to individuals representing the Indian government on official duties but not in a diplomatic capacity. It is typically given to government employees or officers on official assignments abroad. Like the diplomatic passport, it also grants certain privileges but is not as extensive as those given to diplomats. Example- IAS/IPS officials
- Emergency Certificate (EC): An emergency certificate is issued to Indian citizens who need to travel abroad urgently but do not have their regular passports. This is a temporary document valid for a limited period, mainly used when a regular passport is lost or when someone needs to travel due to an emergency.
- Coastal Guard Passport: Issued to members of the Indian Coast Guard for official and international travel, this passport is similar to the official passport but specifically for personnel serving in the Coast Guard.
Each type of passport serves a unique function, ensuring that individuals have the necessary travel documentation for their specific roles, whether for personal use, official government work, or emergencies.