Savanna Hoffman
Applying for a passport as an international student can be a daunting process, especially if you are doing it for the first time. The process varies depending on your country of origin and where you plan to study. For example, Indian students need a student passport to travel abroad, which can be applied for and processed by the Passport Seva Kendra. On the other hand, US students applying for their first passport need to complete and submit Form DS-11. This article will guide you through the process of applying for a passport as an international student, including the necessary documents, fees, and processing times.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Who can apply? | Students above the age of 18 years are considered adults and will have to self-attest their documents. Documents can be attested by parents in the case of minors. |
| Where to apply? | Passport Seva Kendra office or portal. |
| Documents required | Address proof, birth certificate, proof of date of birth, bonafide certificate from the educational institution, visa details, photo, and proof of citizenship. |
| Fees | Rs. 1500 or $165 |
| Processing time | 25-30 days, but expedited services are available. |
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What You'll Learn
Student passport requirements
India
To apply for a student passport in India, you must be an Indian citizen and enrolled in a recognised educational institution, with valid proof of admission or enrolment in a foreign educational programme. Minors must have parental approval and attestation, while those above 18 can self-attest their documents. The process involves registering on the official Passport Seva Website, filling out the form, gathering and submitting the required documents, and scheduling an appointment with the nearest passport office. The processing time typically takes 25 to 30 days.
United States
In the United States, students applying for a new passport typically need to complete and submit Form DS-11, including those who had a minor passport and are now applying as adults. To prove eligibility for a U.S. passport, applicants must provide an original, certified document illustrating U.S. citizenship, along with a legible copy. Acceptable documents include a U.S. birth certificate, consular report of birth abroad, or any valid birth document issued by the U.S. Students must also provide one photo that meets Department of State requirements. The standard processing time for new passports can be up to 11 weeks, and fees are typically around $165.
General Requirements for Studying Abroad
Regardless of the issuing country, it is essential for students planning to study abroad to have a valid passport. The passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the student's period of stay in the destination country. Additionally, a student visa may be required, depending on the country's regulations. Obtaining travel insurance is also recommended to mitigate risks and ensure peace of mind during international studies.
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How to fill out the application form
The process of filling out a passport application can be challenging, especially if you are a first-time applicant. The process is detailed and requires attention to detail. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to fill out the application form for a passport as an international student:
Firstly, ensure you are using the correct form. For first-time applicants, this is likely to be Form DS-11. You can fill out this form online and print it, or download the form and fill it out by hand. You can also pick up the form from your local passport acceptance facility or regional agency.
Before filling out the form, ensure you have the following personal details handy: your complete name as it should appear on the passport, details of any other names you are known by, and details of any name changes. You will also need to provide your date and place of birth, your gender, your address, and your employment type.
When filling out the form, do not sign it until you are asked to do so by a passport acceptance agent. You will also need to provide one passport photo with your application, but do not attach or staple this to the form. The photo must meet the requirements outlined by the passport office, which can be found on their website.
If you are applying for a U.S. passport, you will need to provide original proof of citizenship. This could be your birth certificate, which must show the seal or stamp from the city, county, or state of birth, your full name, date of birth, place of birth, your parents' full names, and the date filed with the registrar's office.
Finally, if you are using a computer to fill out the form, ensure that your PC meets the minimum requirements to use the Form Filler. You will also need to meet the browser requirements, such as having Adobe Acrobat Reader installed.
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Required documents
When applying for a student passport, the required documents vary depending on the country of citizenship of the applicant.
India
Students applying for a student passport in India must submit the following documents:
- A completed student passport application form
- Valid proof of admission or enrolment in a foreign educational program
- Address proof (e.g. a copy of the first and last page of the parent's passport, electricity or water bill, Aadhar card)
- Birth certificate or proof of date of birth
- Parental approval and attestation for minors (under 18)
- 12th class mark sheet
- Bonafide certificate for passport from the educational institution (optional)
United States
Students applying for a U.S. passport must submit the following documents:
- Form DS-11 (Application for Passport)
- Original, certified document illustrating U.S. citizenship, as well as a legible copy of that document
- One photo that meets Department of State requirements
- Payment of fees (total cost is typically around $165)
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Passport fees
The passport fees for international students vary depending on the country and the type of application. Here is a breakdown of the passport fees for some countries:
United States
In the United States, there are two types of passport fees: application fees and acceptance fees. The application fees are paid directly to the Department of State, and the acceptance fees are paid to the Passport Office or the relevant educational institution, such as the University of Kansas. The standard application fee for a U.S. passport book is $60, and there is an additional $21.36 delivery cost for the new passport book. The processing time for this fee typically takes 2 to 3 weeks, excluding mailing times. There is also an option for expedited service, where you can receive your passport in as little as 2 weeks for an additional fee.
India
In India, the passport fees vary based on the type of application, age group, and processing time. For a fresh passport application, the fees range from ₹1,500 to ₹4,000, depending on the number of pages in the booklet and the urgency of the service. For instance, a normal 36-page passport for an adult costs ₹1,500, while a Tatkal (expedited) 60-page passport costs ₹4,000. Passport reissuing fees also differ for minors and adults, and additional fees may apply for lost or damaged passports. It is important to note that Indian passport fees are subject to periodic changes, and applicants should refer to the official Passport Seva website for the latest fee structure.
It is recommended to check the official websites of the relevant authorities for the most up-to-date information on passport fees, as the information provided here may not always be current.
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Passport photo requirements
Firstly, the photo must be recent and taken within the last six months. This is a standard requirement for passport photos. It is also important that your photo is not blurry, grainy, or pixelated. Make sure your photo is in sharp focus and correctly exposed. Lighting is crucial; ensure uniform lighting on your face, avoiding overhead lighting or side lights that can cast shadows. Do not use any filters or digital enhancements on your photo, and do not edit it with software, apps, or artificial intelligence.
Your pose and expression are also important. Directly face the camera without tilting your head, and ensure your full face is visible. Have a neutral expression with both eyes open and mouth closed. Do not wear sunglasses or tinted glasses; if you require glasses for medical reasons, include a signed note from your doctor with your application. You cannot wear a uniform or clothing that resembles a uniform, and religious headwear is only permitted if your full facial features are visible.
For the photo format, provide photos printed on matte or glossy photo-quality paper. The photos must be high-resolution and correctly exposed, with no creases, ink marks, or damage. The photos should be in colour, and the background should be white. The photo must capture your image from head to mid-torso, with visible space between your head and shoulders and the edge of the photo.
Finally, some applications require two identical photos, while others require four. Check the specific requirements for your application. Write your legal name and form number on the back of the photos, and ensure they are not cut, stapled, or altered in any way.
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Frequently asked questions
The prerequisites for a student passport are the same as those for a regular passport. The applicant must hold the citizenship of the country they are applying in and must be enrolled in a recognized educational institution. A valid proof of admission or enrollment in a foreign educational program is also necessary.
You will need to submit a proof of address, birth certificate or proof of date of birth, and a bonafide certificate for the passport from your educational institution. If you are a minor, you will need parental consent and can submit your parent's passport as proof of address.
The process typically takes between 25 to 30 days, but there are expedited services available for an additional cost. It is recommended to apply for your passport as early as possible to account for any unforeseen delays.
The cost varies depending on your personal situation. For most students, the total cost is around $165. Students in India need to submit a fee of ₹1500 or Rs.1,500 on the official website or when booking an appointment.
