When you hold an Indian passport, it is crucial to understand where to find essential details, such as the passport book number. Authorities use this number to identify your passport in government records for official purposes.
Here are five facts to help you find the passport book number in an Indian passport.
1. What is the Passport Book Number?
The book number on the passport is a unique identification number specifically for the physical passport book. It is different from the passport number, which serves as your primary ID for travel.
The passport book number, however, helps track the issuance and status of the actual passport. In India, government authorities, such as the Ministry of External Affairs, mainly use this number to track passports within their system.
2. Where is the Passport Book Number Located in an Indian Passport?
In an Indian passport, the passport book number is on the last page, just above the machine-readable zone (MRZ), which is the passport part that can be scanned. The MRZ includes lines of text containing key details like the passport number and the holder’s name.
They print the passport book number in a distinct format, separate from other numbers found in the passport, such as the passport number itself. It usually appears as a series of digits, sometimes prefixed with letters, and sits towards the bottom of the page.
The number is in readable print or format that machines can read as part of the document’s security features.
3. Why is the Passport Book Number Important?
The passport book number plays an important role in the administrative process. Authorities use the passport number for immigration and travel purposes, but they also use the book number to track the actual passport. Government systems reference it when verifying passport details, issuing new passports, or updating records.
Similarly, authorities often require the book number when renewing your passport, as it links your previous passport record to your new one.
Additionally, you may face issues with your passport, such as discrepancies or errors in official documents. In that case, having the book number on hand can speed up the process of correction or verification.
4. Difference Between Passport Number and Passport Book Number
The passport number is the main identifier for international travel, immigration processing, and official purposes like visa applications. Authorities issue this number to you personally, linking it to your identity.
On the other hand, the passport book number is associated only with the physical document. This number helps authorities track the book and includes its issuance, updates, and changes. It is important to note that this number does not serve as your travel identification and does not affect your ability to travel internationally.
In summary:
- Passport Number: The unique identifier linked to your identity used for travel and immigration purposes.
- Passport Book Number: The actual passport book identifier for administrative and internal tracking.
5. How to Find Your Passport Book Number
Finding the passport book number in your Indian passport is simple. Follow these steps:
- Open your passport: Start by opening the last page, which includes various passport details.
- Look at the bottom of the last page: The passport book number is usually near the bottom, just above the machine-readable zone (MRZ) — a section containing scannable information.
- Check for a series of digits: The book number typically appears as a sequence of numbers, sometimes with letters in front or behind the digits. This number may be labelled “Passport Book Number” or appear without a label.
- Note the number: Write down or memorize this number for future reference, especially if you need it to renew or update your passport.
In some cases, the passport book number may also be called the ” Indian passport file number, “another identifier the government uses to track specific passport documents in its systems.
Conclusion:
Regarding government procedures or passport-related concerns, being aware of the location of the passport book number on an Indian passport. Its significance might help you save time. Always ensure you know where this important number is located to prevent issues, whether renewing, applying, or just checking your passport information.