What is ECNR in Passport?

In this article, we will discuss everything about ECNR in the Indian passport, including its eligibility, application process, and required documents.
What is ECNR in Passport?
3 mins
05-August-2023

ECNR (Emigration Check Not Required) is a term used in passports indicating that the holder does not need to go through emigration clearance from the Protector of Emigrants (POE) while traveling abroad for employment. Many Indian citizens travel overseas for work, and therefore, the ECNR status has gained popularity. In this article, we will discuss everything about ECNR in the Indian Passport.

What is the eligibility for ECNR in passport?

To receive an ECNR endorsement in your passport, you must fulfill one of the following requirements:

  • You have graduated from Class X or higher
  • You have passed an exam equivalent to Class X or higher under the Indian Ministry of Education
  • You have cleared any one of these exams:

1. Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (10+2)
2. Examination declared equivalent to the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination by the Government of India
3. Diploma from a recognized Board or University
4. Degree from a recognized Board or University

  • You have been abroad to a foreign country previously using your Indian passport
  • You have served in the Indian Armed Forces for any rank or a Gazetted Government Officer
  • You are a dependent family member of someone working abroad

When to apply for ECNR in passport?

You can apply for ECNR when you are initially applying for a passport or renewing it. However, you can also apply for it separately at a Passport office or Passport Seva Kendra. If you are renewing, then you can get the ECNR endorsement only if your previous passport has one.

How to apply for ECNR in passport?

The application process for ECNR is pretty straightforward. You can visit the official website or go to your nearest Passport Seva Kendra for the same. Here are the steps:

1. Visit the official Passport Seva portal and download the ECNR Application form. Fill the form completely and honestly.

2. Gather the following documents:

  • Identity proof of the applicant
  • Proof of your date of birth
  • Proof of Address
  • Educational certificates from Class X or equivalent

3. Provide a self-attested copy of your passport.
4. Provide any previous work permits or visas if you possess.
5. Provide proof of employment which includes the following details:

  • Job title
  • Monthly salary
  • Duration or contract terms of work abroad

6. Pay the application fees. The fees depend on the type and validity of the passport you applied for. However, the charges for ECNR are the same for all applicants.

7. Make an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra or Passport Office.

Once you have applied, you will receive an acknowledgment slip with the application reference number. You must keep this slip safe, as it is necessary to track the status of your application. You can check the status of your application on the official website by using your application reference number.

What is the procedure for getting an Indian passport?

Here is a step-by-step guide on how to get an Indian passport:

  1. Create your account on the official Passport Seva portal by registering yourself. If you are already registered, you can skip this step.
  2. Visit the Apply for Fresh Passport/Reissue of Passport link and choose the required service type. For instance, if you are applying for the first time, then select the fresh passport option.
  3. Fill out the application form correctly and make sure it is error-free. You must also upload your passport size photo as per the guidelines mentioned on the official website.
  4. Pay the application fees. The payment options include Credit/Debit Card, Net Banking, or the challan payment method. The charges depend on the type and validity of the passport you require.
  5. Select the appointment slot according to your availability and location.
  6. Visit the Passport Seva Kendra with the required documents to complete the process.

What is non-ECR (ECNR) passport?

A non-ECR (Emigration Check Required) or ECNR (Emigration Check Not Required) passport indicates that the passport holder is not required to obtain an emigration clearance from the government before traveling to certain countries. This designation simplifies travel for individuals traveling for employment or other purposes, exempting them from additional emigration checks.

How to know if a passport is non-ECR?

To ascertain if a passport is non-ECR (Emigration Check Required), examine the second page. If it features an endorsement affirming "Emigration Check Not Required" (ECNR), the passport is non-ECR. For passports issued after January 2007, specific categories like professionals, government officials, and individuals holding educational qualifications above a certain level are automatically considered non-ECR.

Additionally, passports with no ECNR endorsement may still be eligible if the holder fulfills certain criteria. It's advisable to check with the passport issuing authorities or refer to the official guidelines to confirm the ECR or non-ECR status.

What are the documents required for Indian passport?

The documents required for an Indian passport are different for fresh and renewal applications. Here are the details:

Documents required for fresh passport application

  • Address proof: Bank statement, electricity bill, water bill, telephone bill, voter ID card, rent agreement, etc.
  • Date of Birth Proof: Birth certificate, school certificate, PAN card, etc.
  • Identity Proof: Aadhaar card, driving license, voter ID card, Ration card, Passport, etc.
  • Photographs: Two passport size photos with a white background.

Documents required for passport renewal application

  • Address Proof: Same as the fresh passport application.
  • Original Old Passport with handwritten Proof of Address and Photo page.
  • Passport size photographs

ECNR has made it easier for Indian citizens to travel abroad for employment purposes. While the eligibility criteria are pretty straightforward, applicants must ensure to have all the necessary documents and follow the steps discussed in the article for a hassle-free process. Additionally, individuals must ensure their passports do not have any discrepancies to avoid any refusals or delays in traveling abroad.

Frequently asked questions

What is ECR in passport?

ECR stands for Emigration Check Required. It is a restriction placed on Indian passport holders who have not completed their education up to the 10th standard or due to certain other criteria. The ECR status is indicated in the passport and is mandatory for people traveling on work visas to certain countries.

Which passport is better ECR or ECNR?

ECNR or Emigration Check Not Required is a status given to Indian passport holders who meet certain criteria specified by the governments. The ECNR status is indicated in the passport, and it is better than ECR, as it eliminates the need for emigration clearance from the Protector of Emigrants.

Who is eligible for non-ECR?

You are eligible for non-ECR status if you fulfill one of the following requirements:

  • You have completed education of Class X or higher
  • You have passed an exam equivalent to Class X or higher under the Indian Ministry of Education
  • You have cleared any one of these exams:

1. Senior Secondary Certificate Examination (10+2)
2. Examination declared equivalent to the Senior Secondary Certificate Examination by the Government of India
3. Diploma from a recognized Board or University
4. Degree from a recognized Board or University

  • You have been visited a foreign country previously using your Indian passport
  • You have served in the Indian Armed Forces for any rank or a Gazetted Government Officer
  • You are a dependent family member of someone working abroad

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