What is your preferred passport type?
Based on your requirements or functionality, Indian passports can be of three types as below:
a. Regular Physical passport, the Blue type
b. Tatkal passport
Tatkal is a quicker alternative to your regular passport in physical form when paying higher fees. Usually, the applicant can expect the passport within 3 to 4 working days, which is against the usual 30 to 45 days processing time for the regular one (Blue). However, applicants have to provide proof of urgency. You can get complete information from the official passport Seva portal.
c. E-Passport
An e-passport is a regular paper passport with a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip and an antenna embedded. The chip contains the personal particulars and biometric details of the passport holder. Enhanced security is the unique feature of e-passports. Though not commonly used currently, this may be the future of passports. With airports globally switching to digital immigration processes, the use of e-passports will increase.
When planning your next overseas trip, remember that taking out overseas travel insurance is a critical requirement, irrespective of your passport type. Travel insurance covers unexpected financial loss events such as lost baggage, missed flights, and medical emergencies.
All leading insurance service providers in India offer overseas travel insurance. You need to select a plan that syncs best with your travel needs. Generali Central, for example, has plans that provide complete protection and assistance worldwide.
Therefore, your passport protects your identity on your trips abroad, while travel insurance protects you against unforeseen financial liabilities.
How many passport types are in India?
Three main types of passports are issued by the government in India.
· Blue or regular type for ordinary citizens
· White or S-type for Indian government officials travelling abroad on duty
· Maroon or D-type for our diplomats, members of parliament, and senior state government officials travelling on duty
· The fourth type, the Orange passport, is currently not in use.
Tatkal passport is available on payment of higher charges for your urgent travel needs. However, you have to provide proper justifications for the urgency.
While physical passports are commonly used now, with the advancement of digital technology, e-passports will replace the physical variety in the future.
Whatever your type of passport is, it is best to cover your financial liabilities while travelling abroad from unexpected events through travel insurance done in India. Leading insurers like Generali Central have specific plans that protect all your emergencies.