Serving in the Indian Armed Forces is a matter of pride and responsibility. However, when applying for a passport, the process for serving personnel is slightly different from that for civilians. If you are searching for how to apply passport with NOC while serving in the Armed Forces, this complete step-by-step guide explains everything — including the required documents, the online application process, Tatkal rules, police verification, and important departmental permissions.
Personnel serving in the Indian Army, Indian Navy, and Indian Air Force are categorised as Central Government employees. Therefore, they must obtain a No Objection Certificate (NOC) from their department before applying for a passport.
Why is NOC Mandatory for Serving Defence Personnel?
The NOC requirement is essential for national security considerations. Armed Forces personnel may have access to sensitive operational, intelligence, or classified information. Before issuing a passport, the Government must ensure:
- No disciplinary case is pending
- No vigilance inquiry is ongoing
- The individual is not restricted from foreign travel
- The department has no objection to passport issuance
The passport-issuing authority functions under the Ministry of External Affairs, and government employees must follow the prescribed service rules when applying.
Without a proper NOC, your passport application may be put on hold or rejected.
What is a No Objection Certificate (NOC)?
A No Objection Certificate is an official letter issued by your unit or records office stating that:
- The department has no objection to issuing a passport
- The applicant is a serving member
- No disciplinary/vigilance case is pending
- Identity has been verified
This certificate must be properly signed, stamped, and issued through an official channel.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply Passport with NOC
Step 1: Submit Application for NOC Through the Proper Channel
The first and most important step is to apply for NOC within your unit.
You must:
- Submit a written application
- Mention purpose (Personal Travel / Higher Education / Family Visit, etc.)
- Attach copies of Aadhaar, PAN (if available), and service ID
Your application is forwarded by your Commanding Officer to the Records Office for verification.
Processing time usually ranges from 2 to 6 weeks, depending on the unit and formation.
Step 2: Register on Passport Seva Portal
Once the NOC is issued, visit the Passport Seva official website.
- Create an account by clicking on the register button
- Then select the passport office button and select your nearest passport office from the dropdown menu
- Provide your Full Name and Email ID
- Select the option yes, you want your login ID to be the same as your email ID
- Fill up your desired password and click on Signup
- Verify the OTP received in your email
Fill the form carefully. All details must match service records.
Step 3: Fill Online Application Form Carefully
After successful signup, log in using your email id and password
- Click on the services menu
- Select “Apply for Fresh Passport / Re-issue”
- Choose category: Government Employee
- Select the option to submit the NOC
- Personal details
- Date of birth (as per service records)
- Permanent address
- Emergency contact
- Employment details
- As proof of present residential address, select the option “Certificate from employer of reputed companies on letter head”
- Upload your To Whom It May Concern, duly signed by your Divisional/Departmental Officer, with your latest photo attested and your present and permanent address mentioned
- For your age proof, you can verify either your PAN card or your tenth-class passing certificate with your date of birth
Even a minor spelling mismatch can cause delays. Ensure that your Aadhaar details match your service documents.
Step 4: Pay Passport Fees
Current fees for a passport application are as follows:
- Normal Passport (36 pages): ₹1500
- Tatkal Passport: ₹3500
Payment can be made via UPI, net banking, or debit/credit card.
Step 5: Book an Appointment at the Passport Office
Choose nearest:
- Passport Seva Kendra
- Post Office Passport Seva Kendra
Select an available date and time that suits you.
Step 6: Visit PSK with Required Documents
You must arrive on time as per your appointment schedule and carry the following necessary documents:
- Original NOC issued by the organisation
- Aadhaar Card
- PAN Card
- Class 10TH original marksheet and passing certificate
- Service ID Card
- Appointment receipt
Biometric verification, photograph, and document scanning will be completed during your visit.
Police Verification for Armed Forces Personnel
In many cases, police verification may be done after passport issuance (Post-Police Verification). However, this depends on the type of NOC submitted.
Local police may visit your current address, as you provided it in the application form. Inform your family members in advance to avoid delays.
Can Armed Forces Personnel Apply for Tatkal Passport?
Yes, the Tatkal facility is available. However:
- NOC is still mandatory
- Clearance must be clean
- Final approval depends on the passport authority
Tatkal does not bypass departmental permission.
Common Mistakes That Cause Rejection
Many serving personnel face delays due to avoidable errors:
- Applying without receiving NOC
- Incorrect category selection (choosing private instead of government employee)
- Expired NOC
- Name mismatch in Aadhaar and service records
- Incomplete address details
Always double-check before submitting.
Important: Passport Does Not Mean Travel Permission
Passport issuance does not automatically allow foreign travel.
Serving personnel must obtain:
- Leave approval
- Foreign travel permission from the competent authority
- Additional security clearance if required
Some sensitive appointments may restrict travel to certain countries.
Benefits of Applying for a Passport During Service
Many soldiers delay passport application, but having one offers advantages:
- Required for UN missions
- Useful for foreign courses
- Essential for children’s education abroad
- Helpful for visa processing
- Acts as strong identity proof
Applying early with proper NOC avoids future urgency.
Processing Time
| Type | Estimated Time |
|---|---|
| Normal | 15–30 days |
| Tatkal | 3–7 days |
Time may vary based on verification status and clearance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is NOC mandatory for serving army personnel?
Yes, NOC is mandatory for all serving personnel categorised as government employees.
Is NOC required for passport renewal?
Yes, if you are still in active service.
Can family members apply without an NOC?
Yes. NOC requirement applies only to serving personnel.
What if a disciplinary case is pending?
NOC may be denied until clearance.
Final Words
The process of applying for a passport while serving in the Armed Forces is straightforward if you follow the proper channels and obtain an NOC. Always ensure your records are up to date and that no disciplinary issues are pending before applying.
If you carefully follow this guide on how to apply passport with NOC while serving in the Armed Forces, your application process will be smooth and hassle-free.
