When your appearance changes drastically, it is essential to apply for a Re-issue of Passport under the category of ‘Change in Existing Personal Particulars’. This ensures the photograph in your passport remains a reliable proof of identity, preventing issues during international travel or security checks.Here is the complete guide to the documents required for passport reissue due to a change in appearance, based on official Passport Seva guidelines.
- Indian Passport ReIssue Appearance Change
- Mandatory Documents for Change in Appearance
- 1. Your Old Passport (Original and Copies)
- 2. Proof of New Appearance (Photo)
- 3. Change of Appearance Affidavit (Mandatory)
- 4. Specific Documentation for Religious/Physical Changes
- 5. Documentary Proof for Non-ECR Status
- 💡 What Constitutes a “Change in Appearance”?
- The Application Process: Reissue of Passport
Indian Passport ReIssue Appearance Change
- Mandatory Documents for Change in Appearance
- 💡 What Constitutes a “Change in Appearance”?
- The Application Process: Reissue of Passport
Mandatory Documents for Change in Appearance
The application process requires certain standard documents along with specific proof related to your change in appearance.
1. Your Old Passport (Original and Copies)
You must present your existing passport for verification of your previous identity details.
- Old Passport in original: This is mandatory for cancellation and re-issue.
- Self-attested photocopies of the first two and last two pages.
- Include ECR/Non-ECR Page: Also include a copy of the Emigration Check Required (ECR) or Non-ECR page (previously ECNR).
- Observation/Extension Pages: Include photocopies of any page with an observation made by the Passport Issuing Authority or any validity extension pages (if applicable to short validity passports).
2. Proof of New Appearance (Photo)
You will need a photograph that accurately reflects your current look.
- Recent Photograph: For applications submitted through District Passport Cells (DPC), Speed Post Centers (SPC), or Citizen Service Centers (CSC), a recent passport-size photograph is mandatory.
- Note for PSK/POPSK: If applying at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK), your photograph is typically captured digitally at the center, so carrying a physical photo is usually not required unless you are a minor below 4 years of age. Always check local guidelines.
3. Change of Appearance Affidavit (Mandatory)
You must submit a formal declaration affirming the change in appearance.
- Affidavit for Change of Appearance & Signature: This document, often notarized, legally declares that the person in the previous passport photo and the person applying now are one and the same, despite the visual change.
4. Specific Documentation for Religious/Physical Changes
In cases of significant changes, particularly those related to head coverings:
- For Sikh Applicants (Turban to Clean Shaven or Vice Versa): A notarized statement is specifically required. This formal affidavit confirms the reason for the drastic change in appearance (e.g., changing from a photograph with a turban to a clean-shaven look, or vice-versa).
5. Documentary Proof for Non-ECR Status
If you are eligible for Non-ECR (Emigration Check Not Required) status, you must submit documents to prove it. This prevents the ECR endorsement being stamped on your new passport.
- Documents Required for Non-ECR commonly include:
- Matriculation (10th standard) or higher educational qualification certificate.
- Proof of being an Income Tax Payer (e.g., PAN card and latest ITR acknowledgement).
- Proof of being above 50 years of age.
💡 What Constitutes a “Change in Appearance”?
The Passport Seva system recognizes several scenarios as a significant change in appearance necessitating a passport reissue:
- Child to Adult: Updating the photo of a minor who has grown significantly.
- Beard/Hair Changes: Growing or shaving a full beard, or adopting/removing a turban/religious head covering.
- Major Physical Changes: Significant weight loss/gain, or facial changes due to surgery or accidents.
The Application Process: Reissue of Passport
The process for applying for a reissue remains the same as other changes in particulars:
- Online Application: Visit the official Passport Seva website.
- Select Service: Log in and choose “Apply for Re-issue of Passport.”
- Change Particulars: Select “Change in Existing Personal Particulars” and specifically choose the option for “Change in Appearance.”
- Fee & Appointment: Complete the online form, pay the requisite fee, and book an appointment at the nearest PSK or POPSK.
- Document Verification: Visit the center on your scheduled date, carrying all the original documents and a set of self-attested photocopies for submission and verification.
Pro-Tip: Since the validity of a new passport will be ten years, ensure your new photo accurately reflects your current, stable appearance to avoid future travel hurdles.
For the most complete and updated list of required documents, always refer to the official document advisory on the Passport Seva website.