The maroon passport in India is a prestigious document issued exclusively to high-ranking government officials. It streamlines international travel by ensuring a seamless and efficient experience.
The Government of India issues different types of passports to its citizens, each designed for specific purposes and having distinct privileges. Maroon Passport stands out for its exclusivity and unique benefits.
Understanding the eligibility, benefits and application process is crucial for those looking forward to obtaining a maroon passport in India. Here is a comprehensive blog that discusses these aspects in detail.
What is a Maroon Passport?
The maroon passport is a type of passport in India issued to high-ranking officials and officials holding diplomatic status in India, including those who serve in the Indian Administrative Services (IAS), Indian Foreign Services (IFS) and Indian Police Services (IPS).
It is also referred to as a Type D passport or diplomatic passport and falls under the Non-ECR category. It is maroon in colour and is printed both in English and Hindi.
While white passports are issued to government officials travelling overseas on official duties representing India, maroon colour passports are reserved specifically for high-ranking government officials.
Who is eligible for a Maroon Passport in India?
All officers working for the Ministry of External Affairs (MoEA) and Indian Foreign Services Department who are travelling overseas on official duty
Individuals with diplomatic status
Family members (blood relations), spouses and other relatives who are dependent on the officers based on the above two categories
Officials designated for official duties abroad by the Indian government.
Maroon Passport Benefits
Streamlined international travel procedures
Diplomatic passport holders experience a more streamlined process during international travel checks as they have separate channels and dedicated counters at the airport.
Their boarding and check-in process is simple, hassle-free and takes little time compared to that of other regular passengers.
Visa-exemption
Maroon passport holders can visit any country without the need to apply for a visa in advance, enjoying visa-free travel for the entire duration of their stay.
Swift immigration procedures
While diplomatic passport holders need to undergo immigration checks, they do not have to go through all the formalities as regular passengers, enabling quick and easier procedures.
Tax-exempt from transportation-related expenses
Expenses related to travel undertaken with the aid of a maroon colour passport are exempt from paying the applicable taxes.
Diplomatic immunities
Diplomatic passport holders are also given legal protection based on the host country’s laws to ensure they carry out their diplomatic duties without any interference or legal harassment.
How to apply for a Maroon Passport?
Step 1
Visit the official
Passport Seva website and click on the “New User Registration” option.
Step 2
Fill out the application form with the necessary details and create a Login ID and password.
Step 3
Visit the official website once again, click on “Existing User Login” and provide the credentials to enter the respective account.
Step 4
On the home page, click the “Apply for Diplomatic/ Official Passport”.
Step 5
Fill out all the necessary details in the online application form and click on “Submit”. Take a printout of this application form. It is available on the “View/Print Submitted Form” option available on the View Saved/ Submitted Applications page.
Step 6
Visit the Consular, CPV (Consular Passport and Visa) Division, Patiala House, New Delhi or the respective Passport Office and submit the application form with the supporting documents on the scheduled appointment date.
Step 7
Upon verification by the relevant authorities, the maroon passport will be issued to the eligible applicants.
Documents required to apply for a Maroon Passport
Copy of the duly filled online application form
Prime Minister’s Office/ Political Clearance Certificate
Copy of official identity card
Certificate issued by Head of Office
Official request letter provided by the Forwarding Officer
For existing passports, such as re-issue of diplomatic passports:
Original passport for cancellation
If the original passport is present at the office of the Ministry of External Affairs (MoEA), an Original Safe Custody or Surrender Certificate will be required.
If the MoEA cancels the Surrender Certificate or Safe Custody Certificate, the Original Cancellation Certificate will be required.
Other basic documents, such as proof of identity and address, including an Aadhaar Card and PAN
Importance of an International Travel Insurance policy
Despite the privileges and protection extended by a diplomatic passport, unprecedented events, such as trip curtailment, serious health concerns, and loss of passport, can still occur. A comprehensive
international travel insurance policy can cover these unexpected events and provide the necessary financial assistance to overcome these situations.
For instance, a travel insurance policy with
passport insurance coverage can cover the additional expenses incurred due to the lost or stolen passport and assist in obtaining a replacement.
It is important to consider such travel insurance coverage, as the loss of a passport can disrupt travel schedules, delay official duties and raise security concerns.
Wrapping Up
The maroon passport in India is the official type of passport issued to highly-ranked government officials who travel abroad on official assignments or visits. They benefit from quick and streamlined travel check procedures at the airport, minimal immigration checks at the host country and visa-free travel across different countries.
Understanding the eligibility and application process is crucial to obtaining the maroon passport, ensuring every international official duty is safe and sound.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I eligible to apply for an ordinary passport even if I hold a diplomatic passport?
Yes, you can apply for an ordinary passport while holding a diplomatic passport in India. However, it is important to disclose the previously held passport to avoid penalties. A Certificate of Safe Custody of the held passport will be required to apply for the ordinary passport.
How long does it take to receive a diplomatic passport in India?
If the application form and the supporting details are appropriate, the diplomatic passport will be issued in 3 to 5 working days.
How long is the diplomatic passport valid?
The diplomatic passport is issued with a validity of 5 years or less based on the designation.