Minor Passport Apply Online 2026 – Child Passport Eligibility, Documents & Process

A passport is an essential travel document for every Indian citizen, including children below the age of 18 years. Whether your child is travelling abroad for education, tourism, medical treatment, or to visit family members, a valid passport is mandatory. Fortunately, parents or legal guardians can apply for a Minor Passport online through the Passport Seva Portal, making the process simple and convenient.

In 2026, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) continues to offer online passport application services for minors. Parents can fill out the application form, upload the required documents, pay the applicable fee, and book an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). After document verification and biometric formalities (where applicable), the passport is processed and dispatched.

This guide explains everything about Minor Passport Apply Online 2026, including eligibility, required documents, fees, application process, validity, and frequently asked questions.

What is a Minor Passport?

A Minor Passport is a passport issued to Indian citizens who are below 18 years of age. Unlike an adult passport, a minor passport generally has a validity of five years or until the child turns 18 years old, whichever is earlier. However, applicants between 15 and 18 years of age may have the option to apply for a full-validity passport, subject to applicable rules.

Benefits of a Minor Passport

Applying for a passport for your child offers several advantages.

Enables international travel.
Serves as an internationally accepted identity document.
Required for student visas and overseas education.
Useful for medical treatment abroad.
Helps complete immigration formalities.
Accepted as proof of identity in many situations.

Who Can Apply for a Minor Passport?

A passport application can be submitted for:

Children below 18 years of age.
Newborn babies.
School-going children.
Teenagers below 18 years.
Minors under the care of a legal guardian, subject to applicable rules.

Eligibility Criteria

To apply for a minor passport:

The child must be an Indian citizen.
The application must be submitted by a parent or legal guardian.
The required documents must be provided.
Parent or guardian consent must be available as prescribed under Passport Seva guidelines.

Documents Required for Minor Passport

Before applying, keep the following documents ready.

Child’s Documents

Birth Certificate
Aadhaar Card (if available)
Passport-size Photograph (especially for children below 4 years)
School ID (if applicable)

Parents’ Documents

Aadhaar Card
Passport (if available)
Address Proof
Identity Proof
Annexure D (where both parents give consent)
Annexure C (in special cases where applicable)

Minor Passport Application Fee

The passport application fee depends on:

Normal or Tatkal service.
Age of the child.
Passport validity selected (where applicable).

The Ministry of External Affairs revised passport service charges from 1 July 2026. Therefore, applicants should verify the latest fee before making payment.

How to Apply for a Minor Passport Online 2026

Follow these simple steps to apply online.

Step 1: Visit the Passport Seva Portal

Open the official Passport Seva Portal.

Step 2: Register or Log In

Create an account or sign in using your existing credentials.

Step 3: Select “Apply for Fresh Passport”

Choose the option for a Fresh Passport.

Step 4: Fill in the Minor’s Details

Enter:

Child’s Name
Date of Birth
Parent or Guardian Details
Residential Address
Contact Information

Ensure that all details match the supporting documents.

Step 5: Upload Required Documents

Upload clear scanned copies of the required documents.

Step 6: Pay the Application Fee

Complete the online payment using the available payment methods.

Step 7: Schedule an Appointment

Book an appointment at your preferred:

Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)
Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK)

Step 8: Visit the Passport Seva Kendra

Carry the child (if required), original documents, and appointment receipt. For children below four years, parents should also carry a recent passport-size photograph with a white background.

Step 9: Complete Verification

Officials verify the documents and complete the application process.

Step 10: Receive the Passport

After successful processing, the passport is printed and delivered to your registered address.

Passport Validity for Minors

The validity of a minor passport generally depends on the applicant’s age.

Below 15 years: Valid for 5 years or until the child turns 18, whichever is earlier.
Between 15 and 18 years: May apply for either a minor passport or a full-validity passport, subject to Passport Seva rules.

Police Verification

Police verification depends on the application category and supporting documents.

In some eligible cases, particularly where both parents hold valid passports and the required conditions are met, passport processing may be simplified according to Passport Seva guidelines.

Common Reasons for Application Rejection

Applications may be delayed or rejected due to:

Incorrect personal details.
Missing documents.
Incomplete parental consent.
Birth certificate mismatch.
Address verification issues.
Unclear uploaded documents.

Therefore, verify all information before submitting the application.

Important Tips Before Applying

Follow these suggestions for a hassle-free process.

Use only the official Passport Seva Portal.
Carry original documents to the appointment.
Upload clear scanned copies.
Ensure the child’s birth details are accurate.
Keep the Application Reference Number (ARN) safely.
Reach the Passport Seva Kendra before your appointment time.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I apply for a passport for my newborn baby?

Yes. Parents or legal guardians can apply for a passport for a newborn through the Passport Seva Portal.

Is the child’s presence required at the Passport Seva Kendra?

Yes. Depending on the child’s age and the verification process, the child may need to be present during the appointment. Children below four years should carry a recent passport-size photograph.

How long is a minor passport valid?

A minor passport is generally valid for five years or until the child reaches 18 years of age, whichever comes first.

Is the birth certificate mandatory?

The required proof of date of birth depends on Passport Seva rules. For many minor applicants, especially young children, a birth certificate is an important supporting document.

Can a single parent apply for a minor passport?

Yes. However, the applicant must submit the appropriate declaration or annexure, depending on the circumstances, as specified by Passport Seva.

Conclusion

The Minor Passport Apply Online 2026 process has made it easier for parents and guardians to obtain passports for their children. By completing the online application, uploading the required documents, paying the applicable fee, and attending the appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra, you can complete the process smoothly. Moreover, checking your documents carefully before submission helps prevent delays and ensures faster passport processing. Always use the official Passport Seva Portal and follow the latest guidelines issued by the Ministry of External Affairs.