Can a Single Parent Apply for a Child Passport in India?
When it comes to applying for a passport for a minor in India, questions about guardianship and consent are common—especially in the case of single parents. One of the most frequent and crucial queries is: "Can a single parent apply for a child’s passport?" The short and clear answer is: Yes. However, the process is slightly different and requires specific documentation to validate the status of the single parent.
In this comprehensive guide, we will outline the eligibility, documents required, application process, and important legal provisions related to issuing a passport for a minor by a single parent in India.
Who Qualifies as a Single Parent?
In passport terminology, a single parent may include:
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A divorced mother or father
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A widow or widower
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An unmarried mother
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A parent with sole custody of the child
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A parent where the other parent is absent, unknown, or untraceable
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) acknowledges the changing family structure and allows the issuance of a minor's passport based on single-parent applications, subject to documentation.
Can a Single Parent Apply for a Passport Without the Other Parent’s Consent?
Yes, under specific legal provisions, a single parent can apply without the other parent’s consent if:
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They have sole custody as granted by a court.
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The other parent is deceased, and the death certificate is provided.
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The parent is unmarried or abandoned with no contact or whereabouts of the other parent.
In such cases, the passport application must be supported with the right set of Annexures and declarations as prescribed by the Passport Rules.
Key Documents Required for Passport Application by a Single Parent
When applying for a minor's passport as a single parent, the following documents are essential:
1. Proof of Address
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Aadhaar card
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Electricity bill
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Rent agreement
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Voter ID, etc.
2. Proof of Date of Birth (of the child)
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Birth Certificate issued by the municipal authority or registrar of births and deaths.
3. Parent's ID Proof
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Aadhaar card
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PAN card
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Passport (if available)
4. Court Order (if applicable)
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Custody document or guardianship order in cases of divorce or separation.
5. Death Certificate
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If the other parent is deceased.
6. Annexure ‘C’ or ‘G’
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Annexure ‘C’ is a declaration from the single parent affirming they are the sole guardian.
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Annexure ‘G’ is required when a passport is being issued without the consent of the other parent.
Types of Scenarios and Documentation Explained
1. Single Mother – Unmarried
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Provide child’s birth certificate with mother’s name.
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Submit Annexure ‘C’ as declaration of sole custody.
2. Divorced Parent with Sole Custody
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Divorce decree stating custody of the child.
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Annexure ‘C’ and copy of the decree.
3. Parent of Deceased Spouse
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Death certificate of the spouse.
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No need for Annexure G in this case.
4. Legal Guardian (Non-biological)
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Court-issued guardianship order.
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All other documents remain the same.
Minor’s Passport Validity and Type
For applicants below the age of 18 years, the passport is issued for a validity of 5 years or until they turn 18, whichever is earlier. A minor’s passport can be applied under:
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Normal Scheme
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Tatkal Scheme (faster processing, with additional fees and police verification)
Police Verification for Minor’s Passport with Single Parent
In most single-parent cases, post-police verification is conducted. However, if the parent holds a valid passport with the same address, and if the application is under Tatkal, then police verification may be exempted or deferred.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Submitting incomplete or incorrect annexures.
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Failing to provide custody papers in case of divorce.
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Assuming that police verification is not required.
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Not matching address on parent’s documents and child’s application.
Always ensure accuracy in details and attach legally valid proof to avoid delays or rejection.
Application Steps for Single Parents Applying for Child’s Passport
Step 1: Register on Passport Seva Portal
Visit www.passportindia.gov.in, create an account, and fill out the application form.
Step 2: Upload Relevant Annexures
Annexure ‘C’, ‘G’, court orders, or death certificates must be uploaded as applicable.
Step 3: Schedule Appointment
Book an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
Step 4: Attend Appointment
Visit the PSK with the child and carry all original documents for verification.
Step 5: Track and Receive Passport
Track status online. In most cases, passports are dispatched within 7–15 working days.
Conclusion: Yes, Single Parents Can Apply for Their Child’s Passport
The Indian government recognizes and supports the rights of single parents. A single parent can apply for their child’s passport independently, provided all the legal and documentary requirements are met. With the right paperwork and proper declarations, the passport issuance process is smooth and straightforward.
Whether you are a single mother, father, or legal guardian, you can confidently initiate your child’s passport application without needing to rely on the consent or presence of the other parent, when justified and legally documented.
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