Is It Possible to Get Passport in Bangladesh Without NID Card?
Is It Possible to Get Passport in Bangladesh Without NID Card? In Bangladesh, applying for a passport is a crucial process for citizens who wish to travel abroad for various reasons, such as employment, education, or leisure. Traditionally, obtaining a passport in Bangladesh requires certain essential documents, the most prominent being the National Identity (NID) card.
However, what happens if you do not have an NID card? Can you still apply for a passport in Bangladesh without it? This article will explore the available options and provide detailed information about the alternative methods of obtaining a passport, focusing on legal processes and the documents required for the application.
Importance of NID Card for Passport Application
A National Identity (NID) card is a critical document in Bangladesh for various purposes, including the e-passport application process. The NID card verifies an individual’s citizenship status and personal information, making it one of the most important documents for a passport application. Additionally, the NID card helps in verifying the identity of a citizen through the Election Commission’s database, which is essential for maintaining the integrity of the passport system.
Without the NID card, there might be challenges in completing the e-passport application process. The Government of Bangladesh has implemented strict rules regarding the NID card requirement, but there are alternative methods that citizens without an NID card can explore.
Birth Registration Certificate as an Alternative to NID
For citizens who do not yet possess an NID card, there is an alternative route available for obtaining a passport. The Birth Registration Certificate (BRC) can serve as an alternative document, provided it contains a 17-digit number that is verifiable at the official website of the Bangladesh Birth and Death Registration Information System (BDRIS).
The BRC is a fundamental document issued to citizens at birth, which records vital details like the individual’s name, birth date, and place of birth. Since this document holds official recognition, it can be used for passport applications under certain circumstances. However, there are some stipulations attached to using the BRC for passport purposes.
Let’s take a look at the conditions for using a Birth Registration Certificate:
| Document Type | Requirements |
|---|---|
| Birth Registration Certificate | Must have a 17-digit number verifiable on verify.bdris.gov.bd |
| NID Card | Required for regular applications, but the BRC may be used as a substitute if NID is not available |
If you are planning to use your BRC instead of an NID card for passport application, it is important to ensure that your BRC is updated and verified. The information on the BRC must match the details provided in your passport application. Any discrepancies between the two documents can cause delays in processing.
How to Apply for a Passport Without an NID Card
If you have a valid Birth Registration Certificate with a 17-digit number, you can proceed with the passport application process even if you do not have an NID card. Follow these steps:
- Verify Your Birth Registration Certificate: Before you apply for the passport, make sure your BRC is updated with accurate information. You can verify it online through the BDRIS system.
- Visit the Nearest Passport Office: Visit your local passport office with the necessary documents, including your verified Birth Registration Certificate, to begin the application process. The passport application form will require details from your BRC.
- Complete the E-passport Application Form: You will need to fill out the e-passport form carefully, ensuring all information is accurate and consistent with your BRC. Attach the required documents, such as a photograph, proof of residency, and application fee.
- Submit the Application: Once the form is complete, submit it to the passport office. Be prepared to provide biometric information, such as fingerprints and a digital photograph, as part of the e-passport process.
- Pay the Required Fees: You will also need to pay the passport application fees, which vary depending on the type of service you choose (regular or expedited processing). Below is a table that outlines the passport fees in Bangladesh:
| Passport Type | Processing Time | Fee (BDT) |
|---|---|---|
| Regular | 21 Working Days | 3,450 BDT |
| Urgent | 10 Working Days | 6,900 BDT |
- Receive Your Passport: After processing, you will be notified about the status of your application. The passport will either be delivered to your home address or can be collected from the passport office.
Other Alternatives to the NID Card
In rare circumstances, individuals may be able to submit other legal documents if they do not have access to an NID card or a BRC. This typically applies to citizens living abroad or Bangladeshi expatriates who may face difficulties accessing their NID card while residing in a foreign country.
Bangladesh’s government and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have made it possible for citizens living abroad to apply for a passport by visiting their nearest Bangladeshi embassy. In this case, they can provide alternative identification documents such as:
- Old Passport (if available)
- Consular Identification
- Overseas Residence Permit
For expatriates, it is advisable to contact the Bangladeshi embassy for specific guidance on which documents will be accepted in the absence of an NID card.
Benefits of Having an NID Card
Although there are alternatives to the NID card for passport application, it is highly recommended to obtain an NID card as soon as you are eligible. The NID card is not only crucial for passport applications, but it is also required for other services like voter registration, banking, property transactions, and government welfare programs. Having an NID card simplifies numerous bureaucratic processes and ensures that your identity is officially recognized by the government.
Conclusion
While it is possible to apply for a Bangladeshi passport without an NID card by using a Birth Registration Certificate with a 17-digit number, it is important to ensure that your documents are in order and verified. The NID card remains a crucial document in Bangladesh, and obtaining one should be a priority for all eligible citizens.
In the meantime, if you are in urgent need of a passport and do not yet have your NID card, the BRC serves as a valid alternative, enabling you to move forward with your application. For expatriates and individuals living abroad, visiting the nearest Bangladeshi embassy is the best course of action to secure a passport through alternative identification documents.
