As we know nowadays, a passport is considered one of the main documents and proof of identity. In this blog, you will learn about the definition of a passport, types of passports, documents required for a passport, the definition of visa, types of visas, etc. so stay tuned to this blog.
Difference Between Passport and Visa
Passport
A passport is a legal and official document issued by the government that tells the traveler’s identity and represents him as a citizen of a country.
If you are planning an international trip then you require a passport to enter the country. Without a passport, you cannot go on an international trip. A passport contains three important information: your personal information, your picture, and a unique passport number.
Some important information that the passport contains is as follows:-
- Name and surname
- Date of Birth
- Photo
- Signature
- Place of Birth
- Date of Issue
- Complete address
- Pin code
- Name of father
- Name of mother
- Name of husband
- Nationality
- Date of expiry
- Name of spouse
Types of Passport
Ordinary passport – An ordinary passport is also known as a regular passport. This passport is in dark blue and it is issued by the country’s government for the ordinary people of the country. It allows ordinary people to travel to international countries and in that passport, a stamp of visa is also given.
Official passport – This passport is issued by the country’s government for government employees or officials. This passport is in white/grey color for the government officials. This passport is different from the ordinary passport and they are issued when employees go for government missions or some other work.
Diplomatic consular passport – This passport is issued by the country’s government for the diplomats. This passport is in red for the diplomats. This passport is different from the ordinary passport but a little bit similar to the official passport. It is a beneficial passport as it grants some privileges to diplomats when they are traveling abroad.
Documents Required while Applying for a Passport
- Passport size photo
- 1500 fees
- Adhaar card
- Pan card
- Voter ID
- Address proof (Electricity bill)
- Birth certificate
- Marriage certificate
- Divorce certificate
Some Other Documents Required for Passport
These kinds of documents are special kinds of documents used for some other situations.
- Bonafide certificate
- Pilgrim pass
- Continuous discharge certificate
- Military I-cards
Various Services Offered by the Passport Office
- New passport
- Renewal passport
- Document verification
- Lost passport
- Stolen passport
- Change in name or address
- Change in signature
- Any misuse of passport information
Visa
A visa is a special stamp that is given on the passport that allows people to enter another international country for a specified period and the reason could be a job, education, leisure, sports, culture, etc. There are different types of visas that a person requires for the purpose he is traveling to another country. A visa can be issued for a single entry or multiple entries. A visa can be issued directly from the embassy or the travel agency.
Requirements for Visas
- Valid passport
- Photograph
- Forms should be filled
- flight ticket
- Hotel voucher
- Letter from the travel agency
- Visa fees
- Foreign exchange
- Bank statement
- Salary slip
Types OF Visas
- Tourist visa – A tourist visa is issued for a tourist who travels from one destination to another for a short period. He travels for leisure purposes.
- Business visa – Business visa is issued for businessmen or for the person who travels from one destination to another for business purposes. This includes people who travel for mice purposes.
- Transit visa – This visa is issued for a short period and is issued for those travelers who are en route to their destination or there is a stop at their destination it could be for changing the transport from one place to another by preferring different modes of transport.
- Student visa – This visa is issued for students or people who are traveling from one destination to another for education purposes or higher studies. There are some requirements and guidelines that have to be filled out and followed by the students.
- Visa on arrival – This means when a person reaches the destination, At the airport immediately he applies for a visa, and the spot visa stamp will be given on his/her passport. For example, Thailand is very famous for the visa on arrival.
- Diplomatic visa – This visa is issued for diplomats who travel from one country to another. Diplomats usually travel for work purpose or their official duties.
Do’s and Don’t
| S.no | Do’s | Don’t |
| 1. | Before applying for a passport, you should ensure that all necessary documents are ready or not. | Do not fill wrong information on your passport application. |
| 2. | Pay the exact and correct fees at the passport office or even online. | While filling out the application don’t leave any section and make sure to fill in all the correct information in the form. |
| 3. | Always keep a photocopy of your documents. | According to the passport guidelines do not provide your full-size photographs. |
| 4. | When you have the passport form, make sure to click the picture of it and keep it with you. | Do not sign the wrong signature on your documents and application. |
| 5. | And last but not least don’t forget to sign your application and all the required necessary documents. | Do not carry your duplicate documents. |
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FAQs
Who issues visa in India?
The Ministry of Home Affairs issues the visa in India.
Is passport compulsory for a visa?
Yes passport is compulsory for a visa, as on passport you will get the visa stamp and without a passport, you cannot apply for the visa.
What is the full form of Visa?
The full form of Visa is Visitor Intended Stay Abroad.
Do Indians need a visa for Korea?
Yes, Indians need visas for Korea.
Conclusion
A passport and visa are the most important documents that are required when you Travel internationally. These are essential as the passport is an identity proof of an individual and a visa gives a permit to enter another country these are also required so that any terrorist could enter another country and harm others. So it is the responsibility of every individual to have an original passport and follow all the legal aspects for entering another country.