f your passport has an ECR (Emigration Check Required) status and you now qualify for Non-ECR (ECNR), you need to apply for a passport reissue to delete the ECR stamp. This guide explains the complete list of documents required, the eligibility for Non-ECR status, and the official Passport Seva process to get your passport updated in 2025.
ECR Deletion
- 🧾 1. What Is the ECR (Emigration Check Required) Category?
- 📑 2. Documents Required to Delete ECR from Passport
- 🎓 3. Eligibility for Non-ECR (ECNR) Status
- 🧭 4. Step-by-Step Process to Delete ECR from Passport
- 🗂️ 5. Quick Document Checklist
🧾 1. What Is the ECR (Emigration Check Required) Category?
The ECR category applies to certain Indian citizens who may require clearance from the Protector of Emigrants (POE) before traveling to specific countries for employment.
If you’ve since completed Matriculation (10th standard) or hold a degree, you can apply to delete the ECR status and obtain a Non-ECR (ECNR) passport.
📑 2. Documents Required to Delete ECR from Passport
To change your ECR status to Non-ECR, you must apply for a passport reissue and submit the following documents at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).
| Document Type | Details | Mandatory (M) / Optional (O) |
|---|---|---|
| Old Passport | Original passport with self-attested photocopies of: – First two and last two pages – ECR/Non-ECR page – Page of observation (if any) – Validity extension page (if applicable) | M |
| Observation Page | Include the observation page (if issued) by the Passport Authority. Not required if no observations exist. | M |
| Proof for Non-ECR Category | Documentary proof showing eligibility for Non-ECR status (Educational Qualification). Acceptable proofs include: – Degree Certificate (Bachelor’s or higher) – Matriculation Certificate (10th pass) | M |
📚 Source: Passport Seva Document Advisor – Reissue of Passport
🎓 3. Eligibility for Non-ECR (ECNR) Status
You qualify for Non-ECR (ECNR) status if you meet any of the following criteria:
- You have passed Matriculation (10th Standard) or higher.
- You hold a degree or diploma from a recognized institution.
- You are a professional such as a doctor, engineer, nurse, or teacher.
- You are an income taxpayer in India.
- Your spouse or parents hold Non-ECR passports.
If you qualify, your new passport will have “Non-ECR” printed instead of “ECR”.
👉 Still unsure about your category?
Read the complete guide on ECR vs Non-ECR Passport Categories (Insert internal/external link here)
🧭 4. Step-by-Step Process to Delete ECR from Passport
Follow these simple steps to update your passport to Non-ECR status:
- Visit the Official Passport Seva Portal:
Go to https://www.passportindia.gov.in and log in or create a new account. - Select “Reissue of Passport”:
Under application type, choose Reissue and select Deletion of ECR as the reason. - Upload Required Documents:
Upload your degree or matriculation certificate and other required documents. - Pay the Application Fee:
Complete the payment online and book an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK). - Attend PSK Appointment:
Bring originals and self-attested copies of all documents for verification. - Track Application Status:
Use your File Number on the Passport Seva Portal to check progress.
🗂️ 5. Quick Document Checklist
| Category | Documents Required |
|---|---|
| Core Documents | Old Passport (original + self-attested copies) |
| Observation Page | Page issued by Passport Authority (if any) |
| Non-ECR Proof | Degree / Diploma / Matriculation Certificate |
Deleting the ECR (Emigration Check Required) status from your Indian passport is simple once you meet the eligibility for Non-ECR. By submitting your old passport, educational certificate, and necessary proofs, you can easily upgrade to a Non-ECR passport that allows smoother international travel without emigration clearance.
For official guidance and the latest checklist, refer to the Passport Seva Document Advisor.