Passport Application for Children of Single Parents: Step-by-Step Process 9968875644
Introduction
Passport Application for Children of Single Parents: Step-by-Step Process Applying for a passport for children of single parents in India often raises many questions. Single mothers and single fathers sometimes face additional document requirements and legal clarifications. Whether due to divorce, separation, widowhood, or independent parenthood, the passport application process for children of single parents has been streamlined by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), India to make it easier and faster.
This article provides a complete step-by-step guide on how single parents can apply for their child’s passport, the documents required, fees involved, and common FAQs.
✅ Who is Considered a Single Parent in Passport Applications?
The term single parent applies when:
- One parent is deceased.
- One parent has sole custody after divorce/separation.
- The other parent is legally absent, missing, or untraceable.
- An unmarried mother or father is the only legal guardian.
📌 Step-by-Step Process for Single Parents to Apply for Child’s Passport
Step 1: Register on Passport Seva Portal
- Visit Passport Seva Portal.
- Create an account using your email and mobile number.
- Login and select “Apply for Fresh Passport” for your child.
Step 2: Fill Application Form
- Provide child’s personal details (name, date of birth, place of birth).
- Under parents’ details, you can fill only the single parent’s name (no longer mandatory to provide both).
- Choose the correct type of application – Normal or Tatkal.
Step 3: Choose Appointment Slot
- Select a convenient Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO) near you.
- Pay the passport fee online.
Step 4: Gather Documents
Documents depend on whether you are a single mother, single father, or guardian.
Common Documents Required:
- Child’s Birth Certificate (with the single parent’s name)
- Aadhaar Card of the parent and child (if available)
- Proof of Address (parent)
- Proof of Date of Birth (child)
- Annexure (if required by RPO, usually Annexure C or D)
Step 5: Visit Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)
- Attend the appointment with your child.
- Submit biometrics and photographs of the child (for children below 4 years, photographs are carried along).
- Verification of documents by officials.
Step 6: Police Verification
- In most cases, police verification is required.
- The police will verify:
- The single parent’s identity.
- The child’s residence.
- Custody/legal guardian status (if applicable).
Step 7: Passport Printing & Delivery
- Once cleared, the passport is printed and dispatched.
- Delivery is made via Speed Post to the registered address.
📑 Documents Required for Passport Application of Children of Single Parents
For Single Mothers:
- Birth certificate of the child with mother’s name.
- Aadhaar/PAN/Voter ID of the mother.
- Address proof of mother.
- Annexure C (if applicable).
- Divorce decree / custody papers (if divorced).
For Single Fathers:
- Birth certificate of the child with father’s name.
- Aadhaar/PAN/Voter ID of the father.
- Address proof of father.
- Court custody documents (if divorced/separated).
- Death certificate of mother (if deceased).
For Guardians (if neither parent is present):
- Legal guardianship papers.
- Court orders granting custody.
- Address & identity proof of guardian.
💰 Passport Fee Structure for Children of Single Parents
| Passport Type | Validity | Normal Fee | Tatkal Fee (Additional) | Processing Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fresh Passport (36 Pages, Minor) | 5 Years / until 18 years | ₹1,000 | +₹2,000 | 7–14 days |
| Fresh Passport (60 Pages, Minor) | 5 Years / until 18 years | ₹2,000 | +₹2,000 | 7–14 days |
(Note: Tatkal is not always available for minors. Final discretion rests with the Passport Officer.)
⚡ Tips for Single Parents to Avoid Rejection
- Ensure the child’s birth certificate mentions only the applying parent if custody is exclusive.
- Carry original documents along with self-attested copies.
- If divorced, keep custody order ready.
- For widowed applicants, a death certificate is mandatory.
- Book appointments early as slots fill fast in metro cities.
❓ FAQs – Passport for Children of Single Parents
Q1. Is it mandatory to mention both parents’ names on a child’s passport?
No. As per MEA guidelines, a single parent can apply by mentioning only their name.
Q2. Can a single parent apply for a child’s passport without court custody?
Yes, if the child’s birth certificate already names only the single parent. Court custody is needed only in disputed cases.
Q3. Is Tatkal available for children of single parents?
Generally, Tatkal is not available for minors, but exceptions can be made in urgent situations at the RPO’s discretion.
Q4. What if the other parent refuses to give consent?
If you have sole custody or legal guardianship, their consent is not required.
Q5. Can I apply for my child’s passport if I am an unmarried mother?
Yes. A birth certificate with the mother’s name is sufficient.
Q6. What if my spouse is missing and I am applying as a single parent?
You may need an Annexure affidavit and an FIR copy, depending on the RPO’s instructions.
Disclaimer
This article is for informational purposes only. Passport application rules are subject to change by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA), Government of India. Always verify updated requirements on the official Passport Seva Portal or consult the Regional Passport Office before applying