Renewing a 17-year-old's Indian Passport: Validity Options and Procedures

When it comes to obtaining and renewing an Indian passport, the age of the applicant plays a significant role in determining the validity period of the passport. This article aims to provide clarity on whether a 17-year-old can get their passport renewed for a 10-year validity and the relevant procedures.

Typical Passport Validity for Minors

In India, the standard practice is to issue a passport for minors under 18 years of age with a validity of 5 years. This means that a 17-year-old is currently eligible for a 5-year validity passport. Upon turning 18, the individual can apply for a new passport with a validity of 10 years. This 10-year validity is typically granted to adult applicants.

Exceptions for 17-Year-Olds

Between the ages of 15 and 18, there is an exception where a minor can apply for a 10-year validity passport. In this case, the passport is treated as an adult passport, and the process includes a police verification. It's important to note that this exception is not commonly utilized, and it is generally recommended to apply for a 5-year validity passport until the individual reaches 18.

Validity of a 17-year-old's Passport

By default, a 17-year-old is classified as a minor and thus is eligible to get a passport with a 5-year validity period even if they want the passport to be renewed for 10 years. If they need to renew their passport, they will still be issued a 5-year validity passport until they turn 18. Once they reach 18, they can apply for a new passport with 10-year validity.

Renewal Process for a 17-year-old's Passport

If a 17-year-old requires their passport to be renewed and they prefer a 10-year validity, it is possible to do so. However, the steps to renew a passport can vary. Here are the key points to consider:

Application: Individuals can apply online through the official government portal.
Paperwork: A completed application form, passport-sized photographs, and other required documents should be submitted along with the existing passport. Police Verification: For renewal, a police verification certificate may be required, especially if the individual is between 15 and 18 years of age. Processing Time: The processing time can vary, and it is advisable to apply well in advance to ensure timely issuance. Cost: The cost of renewal is typically lower than the cost of a new passport with 10-year validity due to the shorter validity period. Pickup: Once processed, the renewed passport can be collected in person or via mail depending on the preference and location of the applicant.

Conclusion

In summary, a 17-year-old cannot get their Indian passport renewed for 10 years under the standard procedure. However, there are exceptional cases where a 10-year validity passport is possible, subject to additional requirements such as police verification. It is crucial to follow the prescribed procedures and adhere to the age-based validity options to ensure a smooth and successful passport renewal process.