In a significant move towards streamlining passport services for Indian citizens, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced a new initiative allowing individuals to change their address on their passport without the need for a police verification. The move comes as part of the government’s ongoing efforts to simplify processes and make passport services more user-friendly.
Under the new rules, individuals who wish to update their address on their Indian passport can do so by submitting a self-declaration of their current address along with supporting documents such as Aadhaar card, Voter ID, electricity bill, or water bill. This new process eliminates the need for a physical police verification, which was previously required for address changes.
Speaking about the initiative, Foreign Secretary Harsh Vardhan Shringla stated, “We have made significant strides in simplifying passport services for our citizens. The new process for changing addresses on passports is a step towards making the system more efficient and user-friendly. We are committed to providing hassle-free services to all passport holders.”
The decision to eliminate the police verification requirement for address changes on passports was welcomed by many individuals who have had to undergo the time-consuming and often cumbersome process in the past. Priya Sharma, a resident of Delhi, shared her experience, stating, “I recently moved to a new apartment and needed to update my address on my passport. The new self-declaration process made it so much easier for me. I didn’t have to wait for a police verification, and my passport was updated quickly.”
The MEA has also introduced an online portal for passport services, making it even more convenient for individuals to apply for address changes and other passport-related services. The portal allows users to fill out applications, upload documents, and track the status of their passport applications from the comfort of their homes.
Additionally, the ministry has launched a mobile app that provides real-time updates on passport applications and allows users to access important information such as documents required, fees, and appointment scheduling. The app has been well-received by users who appreciate the convenience of having all the necessary information at their fingertips.
The new address change process is part of the MEA’s broader efforts to modernize and digitize passport services in India. The ministry has been working to make passport applications more efficient, transparent, and user-friendly, with a focus on providing faster and more reliable services to Indian citizens.
In recent years, the MEA has made several enhancements to passport services, including the introduction of e-passports, the simplification of documentation requirements, and the expansion of passport facilities across the country. These initiatives have been aimed at making passport services more accessible and efficient for all Indian citizens.
As the demand for passport services continues to grow, the MEA is committed to further improving its processes and ensuring that all Indian citizens have access to reliable and timely passport services. The new address change process is just one example of the ministry’s efforts to make passport services more user-friendly and efficient.
Overall, the new initiative allowing individuals to change their address on their passports without a police verification is a positive development that will benefit countless Indian citizens. By simplifying the process and making it more convenient, the MEA is helping to ensure that passport services are accessible to all and that Indian citizens can travel with ease and peace of mind.
