Can You Get a Passport Without Aadhaar Card?
A common question among many first-time applicants in India is — “Can I get a passport without an Aadhaar card?” The short and clear answer is YES, you can. While the Aadhaar card is one of the most commonly used documents for identity and address proof, it is not mandatory for obtaining a passport.
In this detailed guide, we’ll explain everything about applying for a passport without an Aadhaar card — the acceptable alternative documents, procedures, police verification, and tips to ensure a smooth application process.
Is Aadhaar Card Mandatory for Passport?
Contrary to popular belief, the Aadhaar card is not compulsory for applying for a passport. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) accept multiple other documents to verify identity and address.
While the Aadhaar card is often requested due to its widespread use and ease of verification, you can still apply for a passport without it by submitting other valid proofs.
Alternative Documents Accepted Instead of Aadhaar
Here’s a list of documents that can be used in place of Aadhaar for identity proof and address proof during passport application:
For Proof of Address (Any one of the following):
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Voter ID card
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Electricity bill (within 3 months)
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Water bill
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Landline/Telephone bill
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Bank passbook with photo and address
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Rent agreement
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Gas connection bill
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Income Tax Assessment Order
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Employer certificate on letterhead
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Registered Sale Deed or Lease Agreement
For Proof of Date of Birth (DOB):
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Birth certificate issued by municipal authority
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PAN card
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Transfer/School leaving certificate
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Matriculation certificate
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Government service record (if applicable)
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Driving license (if DOB is mentioned clearly)
For Proof of Identity:
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PAN card
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Voter ID card
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Driving license
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Bank/Kisan/Post Office photo passbook
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Central/State government-issued ID card
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Student ID card (for minors)
What Happens If You Don’t Have Aadhaar at All?
If you do not have an Aadhaar card at all, you can still proceed with your passport application as long as you provide valid alternate documents that satisfy the criteria for identity and address proof.
However, during police verification, some officers may request Aadhaar as a reference. You can explain that your submitted documents are as per the accepted government list and that Aadhaar is not a legal mandate for passport issuance.
Can You Apply for a Tatkal Passport Without Aadhaar?
Yes, you can apply under the Tatkal scheme without an Aadhaar card. However, you will need to provide:
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Annexure 'F' (from a Gazetted Officer)
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Annexure 'I' (self-declaration)
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Other valid photo ID and address proof documents
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Proof of urgency (if applicable)
Aadhaar is not compulsory for Tatkal either, but having it may simplify the document verification process. Still, lack of Aadhaar does not disqualify you from Tatkal processing.
Applying for a Passport Without Aadhaar – Step-by-Step Guide
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Register on the Passport Seva Portal
Visit passportindia.gov.in and create a new account. -
Fill the Application Form
Choose between Normal or Tatkal scheme and fill in your personal details carefully. -
Upload or Provide Document Details
Provide alternate address and identity documents as mentioned above. -
Pay and Schedule Appointment
Make the payment and book an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). -
Visit PSK with Originals
Carry all your original documents for verification. -
Police Verification
Police verification is conducted based on the address you’ve provided, regardless of whether you have Aadhaar or not. -
Passport Delivery
Once approved, the passport will be delivered to your registered address.
Can Minors Apply Without Aadhaar Card?
Yes. For children below 18 years, Aadhaar is not mandatory. Instead, the following can be provided:
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School ID card
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Birth certificate
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Parent’s passport copy
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Parent’s Aadhaar (optional)
Minors can get a passport without police verification, especially when applying with their parent’s documents.
Is e-Aadhaar Accepted If You Don’t Have the Physical Card?
Yes, the downloaded e-Aadhaar (from UIDAI website) is accepted as valid proof if needed. However, if you choose not to use Aadhaar, make sure your alternate documents are updated and error-free.
What to Do If You Face Issues Without Aadhaar?
Some applicants may face reluctance from officials or unnecessary queries if they don’t submit Aadhaar. In such cases:
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Politely inform that Aadhaar is not mandatory as per MEA guidelines.
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Carry printed proof of the accepted document list (available on Passport Seva website).
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Escalate to the Passport Officer if required.
The key is to have proper alternate documents and present them confidently.
Conclusion
To sum up, you can definitely get a passport without an Aadhaar card. Whether you’re applying for a Normal, Tatkal, or Minor passport, Aadhaar is only one of several acceptable documents. The government provides flexibility to ensure no citizen is denied passport services due to the absence of Aadhaar.
Just make sure you carry valid and updated alternate documents, and your passport process will go smoothly — Aadhaar or not.
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