May 2023 Archive: How to Change Place of Birth in an Indian Passport
Got a mistake on your passport and wonder if you can fix the place of birth? You’re not alone. Many Indian passport holders discover an error only after the document’s printed, and the correction process can feel like a maze. In this roundup we break down what you need to know, why it’s not as simple as a quick form, and the exact steps to get it right.
Why Changing Place of Birth is Tricky
The place of birth isn’t just a line on a form; it’s linked to legal identity, school records, and even voting rights. Because of that, Indian authorities treat any change seriously. The passport office requires solid proof that the original entry was wrong. That usually means you’ll need a court order, which itself needs documentary evidence like birth certificates, school certificates, or hospital records.
Skipping any of these pieces can stall the application or lead to a rejection. The process also involves multiple agencies – the passport office, the district court, and sometimes the local municipal office. Timewise, you should expect a few weeks, sometimes a couple of months, especially if you’re waiting for a court date.
Step‑by‑Step Guide to Update Your Passport
1. Gather proof of the correct birthplace. Start by collecting any official document that clearly states the city or town where you were born. Birth certificates are the gold standard, but school leaving certificates, hospital discharge papers, or a sworn affidavit can also help.
2. File a petition in the district court. Draft a simple petition stating the error and attaching copies of your proof. A local lawyer can file it for a modest fee. The court will issue a notice, and you may need to appear for a short hearing.
3. Get the court order. Once the judge is satisfied, they’ll issue an order declaring the correct place of birth. This document is the key to convincing the passport office.
4. Apply for a passport correction. Visit the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) with the following: the original passport, the court order, proof documents, a completed application form, and passport photos. Fill out the “Correction of Personal Particulars” section.
5. Pay the fee and wait. The fee for a correction is lower than for a fresh passport, but you still need to pay the standard service charge. After submission, the PSK will verify everything and forward it to the regional passport office. You’ll receive an SMS or email when the updated passport is ready.
That’s the full loop. It sounds like a lot, and it is, but each step is straightforward if you’re organized. Skipping the court order is the most common mistake, so don’t try to cut that corner.
Need a quick sanity check? Before you start, ask yourself: Do I have at least two official documents that show my real birthplace? If the answer is yes, you’re already half way there. If not, head to your local municipal office or school to request certified copies.
Remember, the passport is your international ID, so taking the time to get it right saves you headaches later—whether you’re applying for a visa, traveling abroad, or just updating your LinkedIn profile.
Got more questions about passport changes or other IT‑related legal topics? Stay tuned to IT World Daily India. We keep breaking down the paperwork you face, so you can focus on the tech you love.
