Can a Passport be Obtained Through Registration? In today’s fast-paced world, obtaining a passport is essential for international travel, official purposes, and even identity verification. In Bangladesh, the process of acquiring a passport has been streamlined to ensure efficiency and accuracy. One of the most common queries people have is whether a passport can be obtained through registration.
Can a Passport be Obtained Through Registration?
A common question among applicants is whether a passport can be obtained through birth registration. While birth registration is an essential document for minors or individuals without an NID, obtaining a passport solely through registration is not possible. As per the guidelines:
- Adults must have a National Identity Card (NID) to apply for a passport.
- Minors can use a 17-digit Online Birth Registration Certificate (BRC) for passport application.
- The information on the passport application must match the details in the NID or BRC.
Passport Application Process in Bangladesh
To obtain a passport in Bangladesh, applicants must follow specific guidelines and meet the necessary requirements. The Department of Immigration and Passports (DIP) is responsible for issuing passports, including the new electronic passport (e-passport). Below are the key steps involved in the application process:
1. Eligibility Criteria for Passport Application
Before applying for a passport, applicants must ensure they meet the eligibility criteria. The primary documents required for the application process include:
- National Identity Card (NID) – A valid NID is mandatory for adults applying for a passport.
- 17-Digit Online Birth Registration Certificate (BRC) – For individuals who do not yet have an NID, a BRC with a 17-digit number is required.
2. Filling Out the Application Form
The application form must be completed with accurate information that matches the details provided in the National Identity Card or Birth Registration Certificate. Any discrepancies in personal information may lead to delays or rejections.
3. Types of Passports Available in Bangladesh
There are different types of passports issued by the government, depending on the purpose of travel and the applicant’s status:
- E-Passport: The latest electronic passport with biometric features.
- Machine Readable Passport (MRP): A digitally processed passport, gradually being replaced by the e-passport.
- Diplomatic/Official Passport: Issued to government officials and diplomats.
4. Required Documents for Passport Application
When applying for a passport in Bangladesh, applicants must submit the following documents:
- Completed passport application form
- Original and photocopy of NID or 17-digit BRC
- Recent passport-sized photographs as per guidelines
- Copy of previous passport (if applicable)
- Utility bill or bank statement (for address verification, if necessary)
5. Application Submission and Biometric Enrollment
Once the application form is completed and necessary documents are gathered, applicants need to visit the nearest passport office for biometric data collection. This includes:
- Fingerprint scanning
- Photograph capture
- Signature recording
After successful biometric enrollment, the application is processed for verification.
Processing Time and Fees for Passport in Bangladesh
The processing time for a passport depends on the type of service chosen:
- Regular Service: Takes around 21 working days.
- Express Service: Issued within 7 working days.
- Super Express Service: Delivered within 2 working days.
Passport Fees in Bangladesh
The cost of obtaining a passport varies based on the type of service and passport validity period. Below is the updated fee structure:
- E-Passport (48 pages, 5 years validity):
- Regular: BDT 4,025
- Express: BDT 6,325
- Super Express: BDT 8,625
- E-Passport (48 pages, 10 years validity):
- Regular: BDT 5,750
- Express: BDT 8,050
- Super Express: BDT 12,075
- E-Passport (64 pages, 5 years validity):
- Regular: BDT 6,325
- Express: BDT 8,625
- Super Express: BDT 10,925
- E-Passport (64 pages, 10 years validity):
- Regular: BDT 8,050
- Express: BDT 10,350
- Super Express: BDT 14,375
Common Reasons for Passport Application Rejection
To avoid delays or rejection, applicants should be cautious about the following issues:
- Mismatch of information between the application and NID/BRC
- Incomplete documentation
- Invalid or expired supporting documents
- Errors in biometric data collection
Conclusion
Obtaining a passport in Bangladesh is a straightforward process if the applicant meets all the necessary requirements. While birth registration is crucial for minors, adults must have a valid NID to apply for a passport. Ensuring accuracy in personal details and following the official guidelines will help in smooth processing and timely issuance of the passport. For the latest updates, applicants are advised to visit the official Bangladesh Passport Office website or consult with the nearest passport office.