Think all Indian passports look the same? Think again. The government issues four distinct colours - navy-blue, white, maroon (red) and orange - each reflecting who you are and what you’re travelling for.

• Blue (Ordinary Passport): This is the standard document for most citizens, used for personal, business, leisure or study trips abroad.

• White (Official/Service Passport): Issued to government officials, bureaucrats and civil-servants when travelling abroad on official duty, enabling simpler clearance. 

• Maroon (Diplomatic Passport): Reserved for diplomats, high-ranking officials and some parliamentary members, this colour marks privileged status and easier international movement. 

• Orange (Emigration Check Required – ECR Passport): This version is meant for people with fewer educational qualifications (often below class-10) travelling for work in certain countries — it ensures they undergo additional checks for protection. 

The colour-coding system helps immigration authorities globally identify a traveller’s category and privileges faster. But colour alone doesn’t guarantee service - your eligibility still depends on correct application, documentation and travel status. 

So next time you spot an Indian passport, you’ll know what the shade actually represents.