Where to Find Passport Book Number on Indian Passport 2025?

Are you wondering where to find passport book number on Indian passport ? Several Indian travellers are confused when filling out international visa applications that require them to provide their passport book number. The shocking reality? It is essential to note that Indian passports do not contain this number, and having this piece of information will save you hours of unsuccessful searching and the risk of errors in the application. And with this guide, things will stop being a mystery or at least magical and obscure, as happened to me on previous occasions when I have had to go through the procedure of filling out forms where someone required this so-called passport book number. Let’s learn more about where to find passport book number on Indian passport!

Where To Find Passport Book Number On Indian Passport?

When the question is asked where to find passport book number on Indian passport, you should know that, when any global application is being sought, it is paramount to navigate your Indian passport to retrieve the necessary identifiers. In contrast to the elusive number, the secretive so-called passport book number, your primary passport number is conspicuous and easy to find.

The passport number of your Indian passport is ranked as most crucial, with an extension of 8 characters. It will be on the biodata page, which is the initial and the first laminated page carrying your photo and your personal information. 

Locating the File Number in Your Indian Passport

In addition to the main passport number, the File Number is another important document to be found in your Indian passport. This is not a number that is actually utilised; it is mainly used as a means of administrative follow-up in its passport issuance system. Let’s know more on where to find passport book number on Indian passport!

Your passport booklet, on the last page, has a 12-character file number.

• The location: Turn to the last printed page of your passport, generally the opposite side of the instruction page or the one before the blank visa pages.

• Format: It is usually a mixture of letters and figures with slashes or no spaces (e.g., AA/123456/2025).

• Purpose: This is an internal reference and is used by the Passport Seva system. It assists in the application tracking of your passport, processing, and renewal history. It is relevant when filling in administrative requests in regards passports. It is never a necessity when filling out international travel documentation or a visa application form. It should not be mixed up with a passport book number.

The Meaning Of The Machine Readable Zone (MRZ)

The Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) is a vitally important element of the new passports, allowing for the speed up of the immigration process and raising security. Although it has encoded information such as your passport number, this is not one of the identifiers that you would usually type manually on forms. The MRZ appears at the bottom of the biodata page.

• Appearance: It is composed of two lines of alphanumeric symbols, which can be looked at as cryptic due to the absence of spaces and special symbols.

• Content: This area contains important information found in your passport, such as passport number, your date of birth, expiry date, and name, in a manner that could be swiftly read by optical scanners at the entry points directly into the country.

• Relation to Passport Number: Your 8-character passport number is embedded in this MRZ. Although you do not extract it here to enter it manually, human readability and international interoperability are guaranteed because it can be read by a machine.

Also Read: Latest Documents Required for Indian Passport Application

Understanding Passport Book Numbers in Indian Passports in 2025

To understand where to find the passport book number on an Indian passport, you should keep in mind that the passport book number is another identifier that tends to mix up Indian tourists. This part brings to light the real concept of passport book numbers and why Indian passports are not the same as other countries' passports, setting right the wrong perception and giving a clear-cut meaning.

What Does A Passport Book Number Mean?

When you ask the question of where to find the passport book number on an Indian passport, you should first understand what a passport book number is. An inventory control number (or passport book number), or booklet number, is a series of individual bound passport booklets in use in some countries.

• Purpose: The number is used as an internal administration number and differentiates it from the primary passport number. That is like a serial number of the blank booklet already, even before it is issued into the hands of a person.

• Usage: The numbers assist passport issuing authorities in controlling their inventory of blank passports, the printing run, and the accountability of the physical copy of the document.

• Distinction: It should be known that this would be different from the personal passport number, which is unique to the holder.

The Reason Behind The Lack of Book Numbers in Indian Passports.

The Indian passport system involves a different model of identification, where the concept of a passport book number does not exist for the citizens of India.

• Easy System: In Indian passports, only two main identifiers are used by the Indian passports to identify the individual and their documentation: the passport number in the form of 8 characters, and the file number in the form of 12 characters.

• Ministry of External Affairs Policy: The policy of numbering Indian passports issued by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) is such that it only uses these two differentiating identifiers and nothing more. A passport number is a unique identifier of the document of an individual, and a file number identifies the process of the application. The physical booklets do not have a different numbering system.

• Efficacy: This simplified process does not need a smaller identifier, and this makes the whole process much easier for both the issuing authority and the passport holder.

Complete Guide to Indian Passport Numbers and Identifiers

The question of where to find the passport book number on an Indian passport, one should try understanding all the numerical identifiers on your Indian passport, as it is essential for seamless travel and application processes. This comprehensive breakdown covers their locations, purposes, and proper usage.

Your Indian passport primarily uses two distinct numbers for identification:

1. Passport Number:

• Location: Top right corner of the bio-data page.
• Format: 1 letter followed by seven digits (e.g., B1234567).
• Purpose: This is your primary identification number for all travel, visa applications, and official documentation. It is unique to your specific passport document.
• Usage: Always use this number when asked for "Passport Number" on any form or booking.

2. File Number (Reference Number):

• Location: Last page of your passport booklet.
• Format: Alphanumeric, typically 12 characters, often including slashes (e.g., DEL/A/123456/2025).
• Purpose: This number is an internal administrative reference for the Passport Seva system, tracking your passport application and issuance process.
• Usage: Primarily used for inquiries related to your passport application status or renewal. Crucially, this is NOT your passport number or a passport book number.

For clarity, consider the following table to understand better where to find passport book number on Indian passport :

What to Fill in When Forms Ask for Passport Book Number? 

It becomes confusing when one encounters a column entitled Passport Book Number in International Visa applications or other forms where Indian passport holders are required to fill in the column. Nevertheless, the answer to such a dilemma is clear and simple. It is important that practical advice on how to deal with visa applications and forms, in which they ask for your passport book number, should be given, and particular examples, such as DS-160 and the other most common ones. The point is just to know that Indian passports do not have this field. Let’s know more about where to find passport book number on Indian passport!

Instructions for the DS-160 Form for Indian Passport Holders

One of the most widespread forms that comes with a field labelled as the "Passport Book Number" is the DS-160, which is the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application to the United States and, therefore, causes a significant amount of confusion among Indian applicants.

Filling DS-160 form:

• Find the Field: The field is called Passport Book Number and is located on the DS-160 form in the Passport.

• The Correct Action: As far as Indian passport holders are concerned, it is proper to choose the option of not applying or indicating a net application that is not applicable in case it is given.

• No Does Not Apply Alternative: In case such a form has no option that says does not apply, we are to leave the field blank. DO NOT make any kind of an effort to override it with either your Passport Number, File Number, or any other arbitrary numbers that might pop to mind.

• Why it Matters: The US immigration personnel are all too familiar with the fact that Indian travel documents lack a page number. A chance of entering a wrong figure might cause errors or delays in the applications.

Other Visa Applications and International Forms

The instructions of the DS-160 can be used in the majority of other international visa applications and immigration documents and forms that require a "Passport Book Number." Let’s know more about where to find passport book number on Indian passport : 

• Canadian Visa Applications: Like the DS-160, in case there is a field asking about the number of passport books on the Canadian visa application form, leave it blank or choose the option of not applicable. The Indian passport format is also known to the Canadian authorities.

• Schengen Visa Applications: Schengen visa application forms do not usually have a place where you indicate the book number of the passport. They usually require the number of the passport (the one you use most of the time, 8 characters) and the place where the passport was issued. In case you should come across such a field, leave it blank or do not make an application.

• Other Immigration Forms: With any other international immigration or travel document, the golden rule always has to be that, in the event of your Indian passport not having the required number on it, then do not make one up. Leave the field blank, or you will select the correct N/A option. To be always on the safe side, just refer to the country's embassy or consulate site, where they give guidelines.

Also Read: Passport Renewal Process India: Latest Step-by-Step Guide

Common Mistakes to Avoid with Indian Passport Numbers: Experts' Tips & Insights 2025

Understanding where to find passport book number on Indian passport and what your Indian passport contains is just as important as knowing what it doesn't. Avoiding common errors can save you significant time, stress, and potential application rejections. Travellers frequently make specific errors when dealing with passport numbers and booking numbers. Recognising these pitfalls and implementing preventative measures is key to a smooth application process.

Never Use File Number as Passport Book Number

This is, by far, the most prevalent and critical mistake Indian travellers make.

1. The Misconception: Due to the 12-character file number being present on the last page, some applicants mistakenly assume it serves as the "passport book number" or an alternative passport identifier.

2. The Reality: The file number is purely an administrative reference for the Passport Seva system. It bears no resemblance in purpose or format to what other countries define as a "passport book number."

3. Consequences: Entering your file number in a field specifically asking for a "Passport Book Number" can lead to:

• Application Rejection: The immigration system may flag the entry as incorrect or invalid, leading to your application being denied.
• Processing Delays: Authorities may need to manually verify your information, causing significant delays in your visa or travel authorisation.
• Confusion: It creates discrepancies in your submitted data, potentially raising red flags.

4. Always Remember: your File Number is for administrative tracking within India, not for international identification, where a "Passport Book Number" is requested.

Verification Before Submission

Diligent verification is your best defence against errors on any official document.

• Double-Check All Fields: Before submitting any visa application, travel authorization, or online form, meticulously review every single field you have filled.

• Focus on Numbers: Pay particular attention to your passport number, date of birth, expiration date, and any other numerical data. A single transposed digit can invalidate your application.

• Compare with Physical Passport: Always compare the information you've entered on the form directly against your physical passport. Do not rely on memory or previously saved digital copies that might be outdated.

• Seek Clarification: If you are genuinely unsure about a specific field on a foreign visa application form, do not guess. Instead, consult the official website of the embassy or consulate of the country you are applying to, or contact their helpline. Many provide specific instructions for applicants from countries with unique passport formats.

By adhering to these simple verification steps, you significantly reduce the risk of errors and ensure a smoother application process.

Latest Differences Between Indian and International Passport Formats in 2025

To understand where to find the passport book number on an Indian passport, you should keep in mind that passport formats vary significantly across countries, driven by national identification systems and historical practices. Understanding these differences, particularly why some countries include book numbers and how this affects international travel, is crucial for global citizens.

Countries That Use Passport Book Numbers

Many countries incorporate a "passport book number" or "inventory control number" into their passport documents. This number is typically a serial identifier for the blank passport booklet itself, used for internal administrative purposes by the issuing authority.

Some examples of countries whose passports may include a "Book Number" are:

• United States: U.S. passports typically have a "Booklet Number" printed on the bio-data page.

• United Kingdom: UK passports often feature a "Booklet Number" or "Document Number."

• Canada: Canadian passports may also include a "Booklet Number."

• Australia: Australian passports usually have a "Booklet Number" on the bio-data page.

These numbers are separate from the primary passport number and serve as an additional layer for inventory management and tracking of physical documents. The specific terminology and placement can vary.

Global Standardisation Efforts

The International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) plays a crucial role in harmonising international travel document standards.

• ICAO Document 9303: ICAO publishes specifications for Machine Readable Travel Documents (MRTDs) in its Document 9303. These specifications aim to ensure global interoperability and security for passports and other travel documents.

• Standardised MRZ: A significant aspect of ICAO's efforts is the standardisation of the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) at the bottom of the bio-data page. This ensures that all compliant passports can be quickly and accurately scanned by automated border control systems worldwide.

• Flexibility in National Identifiers: While ICAO sets standards for the structure of the MRZ and certain data elements, it allows individual nations flexibility in their internal numbering systems, such as whether or not to include a "passport book number." This is why some countries opt for it, while others, like India, do not.

• Impact on Travel: These standardisation efforts, despite variations in national formats, aim to facilitate smoother international travel by ensuring that essential data can be machine-read and verified globally. However, the nuances like the presence or absence of a "passport book number" still require travellers to be informed and careful when filling out international forms.

Digital Transformation of Indian Passport Services: Updated Insights 2025

The Indian government has been actively engaged in the digital transformation of its passport services, aiming to enhance efficiency, security, and convenience for citizens. These ongoing developments in 2025 continue to shape how Indian passports are issued and recognised internationally.

Latest Facts and News (2025)

• No Passport Book Number: Indian passports do not contain a passport book number – only the 8-character passport number and the 12-character file number exist. This fundamental format remains unchanged in 2025, despite advancements in digital initiatives.

• Ministry of External Affairs Confirmation: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has consistently confirmed that the existing numbering policy for Indian passports remains in effect. The absence of a "passport book number" is a design choice of the Indian system and has not been altered by recent digital upgrades.

• US DS-160 Clarity: Recognising the recurring confusion, the US DS-160 visa forms now clearly specify "Not Applicable" options or allow the field to be left blank for Indian passport holders when requesting a "Passport Book Number." This is a positive development that alleviates a common pain point.

• New Biometric Passports (e-passports) in 2025: India has commenced issuing new biometric passports, also known as e-passports, in 2025. These e-passports incorporate embedded microchips for enhanced security and faster processing at immigration. Crucially, these new passports maintain the same numbering system; they still do not include a separate passport book number. The primary 8-character passport number remains the core identifier.

• Visa Application Error Statistics: Current data suggests that over 50% of visa application errors submitted by Indian citizens globally stem from confusion about the "passport book number" versus the actual passport number. This highlights the ongoing need for clear guidance on this topic.

• Digital Passport Tracking Systems: Digital tracking systems launched by Indian passport authorities in 2025 for application status and delivery rely solely on the 8-character passport number and the 12-character file number for identification. There is no integration or requirement for a "passport book number" in these new digital frameworks.

Conclusion

The mystery of where to find passport book number on Indian passport holders can be definitively resolved: Indian passports do not have this number. Your primary identifier is the 8-character passport number found on the biodata page, crucial for all international interactions. The 12-character file number on the last page serves administrative purposes within India and should never be confused with a passport book number. When faced with international forms requesting a "passport book number," the correct action is to select "Not Applicable," "Does Not Apply," or leave the field blank. This understanding, coupled with careful verification of all information against your physical passport, will prevent common errors, save you valuable time, and ensure a smoother, hassle-free experience with visa applications and international travel. To know more on the same visit, TerraTern now!