Passport travel document, not proof of citizenship: Ministry of External Affairs
The government explained that while passports are issued only to Indian citizens, their primary purpose is to facilitate international travel and serve as an identity document abroad.
PTC News Desk: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has clarified that an Indian passport is mainly a travel document and should not be considered final proof of Indian citizenship. The clarification comes amid public confusion about whether passports, Aadhaar cards, or voter ID cards can be used as definitive proof of citizenship.
The government explained that while passports are issued only to Indian citizens, their primary purpose is to facilitate international travel and serve as an identity document abroad.
During a briefing, the MEA also highlighted major improvements in passport services. In many cases, passport applications are now processed within five working days, and applicants spend less than 45 minutes at Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) due to technology-driven reforms and simplified procedures.
India has also expanded its global mobility partnerships by signing 27 mobility agreements with 25 countries, including the European Union, the United Kingdom, Australia, and several Gulf nations. These agreements aim to make it easier for students, researchers, apprentices, professionals, and business travellers to move across borders.
The MEA further noted that travel access for Indian passport holders has improved significantly. Currently, 27 countries offer visa-free entry to Indians, while 47 countries provide visas on arrival and 66 countries allow Indian travellers to apply through e-visa facilities. These developments are expected to make international travel and overseas employment opportunities more accessible for Indian citizens.