Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature in India? 9968875644
Introduction
Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature Many single mothers, divorced women, or guardians in India ask —
“Can my child get a passport without the father’s signature?”
The answer is YES.
According to the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) and the Passport Seva guidelines, a mother can apply for a child’s passport without the father’s consent or signature, provided she is the legal guardian and the application includes a proper self-declaration (Annexure C or G).
Let’s explore how the rule works, what documents you need, and how to apply successfully.
⚖️ Legal Rules for Minor Passports in India : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
The Passport Rules, 1980, and the Passports Act, 1967, govern the issuance of passports to minors.
By default, both parents are guardians, but the MEA recognizes situations where only one parent — especially the mother — has custody or guardianship.
✅ Legal Provision: Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
A single parent, mother, or legal guardian can apply for the minor’s passport without requiring the other parent’s signature, provided a valid declaration is attached.
Hence, the father’s physical presence or consent is not mandatory in such cases.
👩👧 When Father’s Signature Is Not Required : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
You can apply for your child’s passport without the father’s consent or signature under the following situations:
Situation
Father’s Signature Needed?
Supporting Proof
Divorced / Custody with Mother
❌ No
Divorce decree / custody order
Single or Unwed Mother
❌ No
Birth certificate showing only mother’s name
Father Abroad or Untraceable
❌ No
Annexure G (self-declaration)
Father Deceased
❌ No
Death certificate
Legal Separation (No court decree)
❌ No
Annexure C (self-declaration)
Adopted Child
❌ No
Adoption deed or order
Surrogacy or IVF
❌ No
Birth certificate and mother’s documents
In all these situations, the mother or guardian can sign and submit the application independently.
📋 Documents Required for Child Passport Without Father’s Signature : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Document
Description
🧒 Child’s Birth Certificate
Issued by the Municipal Authority or Registrar of Births & Deaths.
🧾 Mother’s Proof of Address
Aadhaar, Voter ID, or rent agreement.
🧍♀️ Mother’s Proof of Identity
PAN card, Passport, or Aadhaar.
📄 Annexure C or Annexure G
Self-declaration from the mother stating she is the sole guardian and the father’s signature/consent is not available.
⚖️ Legal Documents (If applicable)
Divorce decree, custody order, death certificate, or adoption deed.
🏫 Child’s School Certificate or ID
Helpful for verification.
📸 Photographs
Not needed if applying online; taken at PSK.
🖥️ Step-by-Step Application Process : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Step 1: Register on Passport Seva Portal : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Step 2: Fill Application Form for Minor : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Select “Apply for Fresh Passport” → Minor (Below 18 years).
Enter child’s details accurately.
In the “Father’s Details” section, choose Not Applicable if the father is not involved.
Step 3: Upload Documents : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Upload scanned copies of:
Birth certificate
Mother’s ID & address proof
Annexure C or G
Custody or legal documents (if any)
Step 4: Pay the Fee : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Pay the applicable fee (see table below) and schedule an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
Step 5: Visit PSK : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Take originals + photocopies of all documents. Your child must be present for photograph and biometrics.
Step 6: Police Verification : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
If required, police will verify your present address. The verification focuses only on residence — not the father’s details.
Step 7: Receive Passport : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
After verification, the passport is printed and sent to your registered address by Speed Post.
💰 Passport Fees for Minors (2025) : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Age Group
Type
Validity
Normal Fee (INR)
Tatkal Fee (INR)
Below 15 years
Fresh / Reissue
5 years
₹1,000
₹3,000
15 to 18 years
Fresh / Reissue
10 years or till age 18
₹1,500
₹3,500
🔹 Note: Tatkal processing is subject to approval and may not always be available in single-parent cases.
🧩 Common Scenarios Explained
1. Single or Unwed Mother : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
If the child’s birth certificate mentions only the mother’s name, no father’s signature or consent is needed. Attach Annexure G with your declaration.
2. Divorced or Separated Mother : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
If you have a divorce decree or custody order, attach it. If you’re separated without a decree, a self-declaration (Annexure C) is enough.
3. Father Abroad / Not Traceable : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Provide a written declaration (Annexure G) stating that the father is not in contact and you are the sole guardian.
4. Father Deceased : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Attach a death certificate along with your ID and the child’s birth certificate.
❓ FAQs – Passport Without Father’s Signature
Question
Answer
1. Can a child get a passport without the father’s signature?
✅ Yes. The mother or guardian can apply with a self-declaration (Annexure C or G).
2. What is Annexure C/G?
A declaration confirming that the applicant parent is the sole guardian and the other parent’s consent is not available.
3. Will the father’s name appear on the passport?
Only if it is mentioned in the child’s birth certificate and the mother does not request omission.
4. Do I need to provide a father’s NOC or affidavit?
❌ No, not required if you are the legal or sole guardian.
5. Can a mother apply for a passport alone?
✅ Yes, mothers can apply independently. The father’s signature is not mandatory.
6. Is there police verification?
Usually yes — it verifies the address, not family status.
7. Can I apply under Tatkal scheme?
Possibly, but subject to RPO discretion. Additional documents may be needed.
8. What if my child’s birth certificate includes the father’s name?
That’s fine — just include a self-declaration stating you have custody and the father’s consent is unavailable.
🧠 Final Thoughts : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
A child in India can absolutely get a passport without the father’s signature — the mother or guardian’s declaration is legally valid and sufficient.
Whether you’re a single parent, divorced mother, or guardian, the passport process is designed to support your child’s rights without unnecessary obstacles.
Ensure your documents are genuine, your declaration is truthful, and your present address is verified — and your child’s passport will be approved without hassle.
⚠️ Disclaimer : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Disclaimer: This content is for educational and informational purposes only. Passport policies may vary slightly depending on the Regional Passport Office (RPO) or individual case circumstances. Always refer to the latest official information on the Passport Seva Portal or consult an authorized passport agent before applying. The author is not responsible for administrative or legal discrepancies.
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Can a Child Get a Passport Without the Father’s Signature in India? Absolutely Yes!
The Indian government and the Passport Seva system recognize that requiring mandatory consent from both parents can pose an impossible barrier for single parents, victims of domestic discord, or those whose co-parent is absent. Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Therefore, the clear answer is: Yes, a child can get a passport in India without the father’s signature.1 The applying parent (typically the mother) must provide a specific legal declaration stating the reason for the father’s absence of consent.2
The single most important document in this process is Annexure ‘C’.
📜 The Power of Annexure ‘C’ : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
When both parents cannot provide consent for a minor’s passport, the applying parent uses Annexure ‘C’ – Specimen Declaration by Applicant’s Parent for Issue of Passport to Minor When One Parent Has Not Given Consent.
This affidavit is a solemn self-declaration, usually made on plain paper, which serves two critical purposes:
Replaces Consent: It explains why the father’s signature (or consent) is absent, thereby satisfying the Passport Authority’s requirement for parental documentation.
Assumes Responsibility: The applying parent takes sole legal responsibility for the information provided and for any legal complications that may arise from the passport’s issuance.
Key Scenarios Where Annexure ‘C’ is Used: Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Annexure ‘C’ is specifically designed to cover most non-traditional family situations, ensuring the minor’s right to a passport is not denied:
Separation/Divorce Pending: Parents are separated, and no court case regarding divorce, custody, or a marital dispute is pending.
Desertion: The father has deserted the family and their whereabouts are not known.
Wilful Denial of Consent: One parent is willfully refusing to give consent, and the applying parent has supporting communication/documents.
Absence/Travel: The father is travelling abroad/on the sea/travelling in India and unable to provide consent (supporting documents like a copy of their passport or ticket are required).
Court Case Ongoing: There is an ongoing court case for divorce/custody, but the court has not issued any order prohibiting the passport’s issuance without the father’s consent.
Unwed Single Parent: The child was born out of wedlock, and the mother is the single parent.3
👨👩👧👦 Scenarios Not Requiring Annexure ‘C’ Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
In some cases where the father is not involved, a different document is used:
Scenario
Document Required
Explanation
Father Deceased
Annexure ‘D’ + Father’s Death Certificate
The mother is now the sole legal parent, making Annexure ‘D’ the correct form for dual consent (even if only one parent is signing) along with the proof of death.
Exclusive Court Custody
Annexure ‘H’ + Certified Court Order
If a court has given exclusive legal custody to the applying parent without visitation rights to the father, the court order is sufficient to proceed with Annexure ‘H’ (the regular consent form for minors).
🌟 Major Policy Change for Single Parents : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
A significant policy update from the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) further simplifies the process:
Option to Omit Name: The online passport application form now permits an applicant to provide the name of the father, mother, or legal guardian—i.e., only one parent and not both.4 This change allows single parents to apply for a passport and request that the name of the absent parent (father or mother) is not printed on the minor’s passport if they so choose.5
This removes friction and provides flexibility for single parents who may not want the absent parent’s name included.
📝 Key Steps for the Applying Parent
To successfully obtain the minor’s passport without the father’s signature:
Identify Your Scenario: Determine which of the situations mentioned above applies to you.
Download Annexure ‘C’: Download the latest version of the Annexure ‘C’ form from the official Passport Seva Portal (under the ‘Forms and Affidavits’ section).
Complete the Affidavit: Fill out Annexure ‘C’ on plain paper, specifically selecting the relevant reason for the father’s absent consent.6
Gather Supporting Documents: Collect the minor’s Birth Certificate, the applying parent’s Address and Identity Proof (Aadhaar, Passport, etc.), and any relevant court orders or death certificates.
Book and Attend Appointment: The applying parent must attend the PSK/POPSK appointment with the minor and all original documents, including the completed Annexure ‘C’. Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
🛑 Disclaimer : Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Important Legal Disclaimer:
The information regarding the use of Annexure ‘C’ and related documents is based on the published guidelines of the Passport Seva, Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India. Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Final Authority: The final decision on the acceptance of documents and the issuance of a passport rests solely with the Passport Authority/PSK officials. Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Mandatory Verification: All submitted documents, including Annexure ‘C’ and supporting evidence like divorce decrees or death certificates, are subject to verification and scrutiny by the Passport Authority. Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
Legal Undertaking: By submitting Annexure ‘C’, the applicant solemnly undertakes full legal responsibility for the declaration and for defending any legal case arising from the issuance of the passport. Applicants are strongly advised to consult the official Passport Seva website before applying. Can a Child Get a Passport Without Father’s Signature
