Indian Army Soldiers and Passport Application Process: Guidelines and Requirements

Yes, Indian Army soldiers can apply for a passport. However, the process may differ slightly from that of civil citizens. This article details the steps and requirements unique to Army soldiers, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the application process.

Eligibility and Requirements

The eligibility criteria for Army soldiers to apply for a passport remain the same as for any other Indian citizen. These criteria include age, nationality, and other basic requirements. As Indian Army soldiers are also considered Indian citizens, there is no doubt regarding their eligibility.

Application Process

1. Online or Offline Application Form

Unlike civilians, Army soldiers have some unique steps to follow when applying for a passport. These include:

Step 1:
Ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria such as age and nationality.

Step 2:
Fill out the passport application form, which can be done online or offline.

Required Documentation

In addition to the standard documents required for any passport application, Army soldiers must provide:

Service Identity Card Aadhar Card or any Other Valid ID Proof Address Proof Photographs as Per Specifications

Verification Requirement

Like any other aspect of their lives, Army soldiers may face additional verification requirements from within the military. This is to ensure that the application process is secure and reliable.

Submission and NOC Certificate

Step 3:
Submit the application at the designated passport office or through the online portal. Before submission, you will also need to acquire a NOC (Non-Objection Certificate) from your commanding officer. This certificate serves as formal approval for you to proceed with the passport application.

Fee Payment and Tracking

Step 4:
After submission, pay the applicable passport fee. Once the payment is made, you can track the status of your application online.

Additional Considerations

If the Army soldier applies for a passport after joining the service, they need to obtain a NOC from their unit before applying. Additionally, they should inform their unit about their foreign trip, including the countries they plan to visit and the sources of funding for their trip.

Conclusion

Indian Army soldiers have the same right to apply for a passport as any other Indian citizen. The verification and additional steps required from the military ensure that the application process is well-organized and compliant with military regulations.

FAQs

Question 1: Can an Indian Army soldier apply for a passport during their service? Answer 1: Yes, Army soldiers can apply for a passport during their service but must submit a NOC from their commanding officer before proceeding. Question 2: Are there any additional requirements for Army soldiers? Answer 2: Yes, soldiers must provide a Service Identity Card and obtain a NOC from their commanding officer. Question 3: Do Army soldiers face any restrictions regarding passport application? Answer 3: No, there are no restrictions on applying for a passport by any Service Man.