Non-ECR category in passport: What is a non-ECR passport?

Planning a foreign trip and researching things you need to have before embarking on your journey? Well, for all travellers looking to travel outside their countries, there is one document which is essential wherever they go. While the first thought travellers might have is a visa, this document is called a passport. That is because some countries allow entry even without a visa; however, a passport is the only internationally recognised form of identification, and without it, one will not be able to enter another country.

Although many Indians never travel abroad due to the prohibitive and high cost, and annual outbound travel is less than 1% of all travel, Indians are poised to spend over $42 billion on travel outside India. This, along with increased accessibility in terms of transport and accommodations and ease of entry rules, enables Indian travellers to explore the world more efficiently than ever before. However, when planning an international trip, the first requirement is a passport. However, while there are several types of passports, one kind of passport often confuses travellers. And that is non-ECR passports. While often used in conjunction with ECR passports, non-ECR passports are the opposite of them.

Keep reading to find out what a non-ECR passport is, what documents it requires, and how to apply for one.

What is a non-ECR passport?

A non-ECR or ECNR (Emigration Clearance Not Required) passport is issued to people who can travel to other countries for tourism or business purposes without having to pass emigration clearance. To be eligible for an ECNR passport, an applicant must have the specific educational qualifications listed on the Passport Seva website.

The current eligibility requirements are as follows: An applicant must ensure at least one of them to be eligible for travelling without emigration clearance:

• The applicant must have passed their 10th grade with valid documents as proof.
• The applicant must be of or above 50 years of age.
• Applicants with a diploma in polytechnics or nursing from any recognised institute.
• Applicants who have spent at least three years overseas.
• Income taxpayer with an established income source.
• The spouse or child of an income taxpayer.

How does a non-ECR passport differ from an ECR passport?

An ECNR passport differs from an ECR passport in several ways. Here are some of the key differences that a passport applicant must note.

Why is a non-ECR passport needed?

A non-ECR passport is a regular passport that enables Indian passport holders to travel the world easily without having to worry about immigration checks while being able to work flexibly and travel quickly. However, while an ECNR passport is highly beneficial, it is also essential to note the critical role an ECR passport plays in safeguarding Indian citizens.

An ECR passport protects Indian citizens who have not completed their formal education from exploitation and violence when working in a foreign country—specifically, the 18 countries listed above.

How to apply for a non-ECR passport?

An Indian citizen applying for a non-ECR passport can do so online using the Passport Seva website. After checking whether you are eligible for an ECNR passport when applying, you can select immigration check not required when prompted as a part of the form.

The process is quite simple and intuitive, with the Passport Seva website guiding you through the entire process.

What documents are required for non-ECR passport?

The following are some of the documents required to avail of a Non-ECR passport:

Also read: The Meaning of ECR Category in Passport.

Conclusion

So whether you are planning an international trip or are just looking to get a passport in anticipation of foreign travel, consider the differences between ECR and non-ECR passports to have an accurate assessment and travel without worrying about checks and clarification. In addition to this, the second thing which travellers planning a foreign trip should consider is travel insurance.

Travellers securing their trips with international travel insurance can explore the world with confidence and peace of mind without worrying about the financial aspect of travel-related risks. So whether you are exposed to risks resulting in trip cancellation, loss of passport, medical emergency, personal accident, missed connecting flight, or anything else, explore the world at your pace with confidence and peace of mind.