When planning an international trip, two things are absolutely essential—a valid passport and travel insurance. While your passport allows you to travel abroad, travel insurance protects you from unexpected emergencies like medical issues, trip delays, lost baggage, or passport loss.

Most people today prefer to buy travel insurance online, thanks to its instant process, easy comparison, and affordability. But during the purchase process, one detail is always required—your passport number.

If you’ve ever wondered what a passport number means, why it is required for travel insurance, what format it follows, or where exactly you can find it on your Indian passport, this detailed guide will clear all your doubts.

This blog is written using the EEAT (Expertise, Experience, Authoritativeness, Trustworthiness) approach to ensure accurate, reliable, and user-friendly information.

What is a Passport Number?

A passport number is a unique alphanumeric code assigned to every individual holding a valid passport. It acts as your identity reference in international travel records.

The passport number helps authorities verify your identity, maintain security checks, and track your travel history. It is one of the most important details required when booking international flights, applying for visas, or buying international travel insurance online.

Why is a Passport Number Required for Travel Insurance?

When you buy travel insurance online, insurers require your passport number for several reasons:

1. Identity Verification

Your passport number helps insurers verify your identity and ensure that the policy is issued to the right person.

2. Travel Document Linking

The insurance policy is linked to your passport so that in case of:

  • Passport loss
  • Immigration issues
  • Emergency evacuations
  • the insurer can coordinate easily.
3. Smooth Claims Processing

During a travel-related claim abroad, your passport number is used to:

  • Confirm your entry and exit dates
  • Validate your identity
  • Authenticate your policy details
4. Mandatory for International Travel Insurance

For overseas policies (especially Schengen, USA, Europe, UK), passport details are mandatory to activate coverage.

Passport Number Format in India

Indian passports follow a simple, standardised format.

Indian Passport Number Format:

One uppercase letter + Seven digits
Example: N4567893

Key Points About the Format:

  • The first letter indicates the passport series.
  • The remaining seven digits are unique to each passport holder.
  • No spaces or special characters are used.
  • The number is printed clearly on both the passport’s ID page and the back cover.

This structured format helps ensure consistency and security in global travel records.

Where to Find the Passport Number in an Indian Passport?

You can locate your passport number in the following places:

1. On the Front Page (Bio-Data Page)
  • Open your passport to the first page with your photograph.
  • The passport number is printed on the top right corner, usually in bold, black characters.
  • It is displayed next to the field labelled “Passport No.”
2. On the Upper Right Corner of Every Page

In many passports, the passport number is also printed faintly on internal pages for easy cross-verification.

3. Printed on the Back Cover (Last Page)

The passport number is also mentioned on the last page along with personal details like:

  • Address
  • Parents’ names
  • Emergency contact
4. In the Machine Readable Zone (MRZ)

At the bottom of the bio-data page, you will see two lines with characters and symbols.
This section contains encoded passport details including your passport number.

If you ever misplace your passport number while filling a form online, these are the exact places to check.

Why You Must Enter the Correct Passport Number While Buying Travel Insurance Online

Entering incorrect passport details can cause several problems:

  • Policy becomes invalid during travel
  • Claims may get rejected due to mismatched identity
  • Visa applications may be delayed
  • Airport verification issues
  • Emergency assistance may get affected

Always double-check your passport number before completing the online travel insurance purchase.

What if You Don’t Have a Passport Yet? Can You Still Buy Travel Insurance?

Yes, in many cases, you can buy travel insurance online without a passport number, especially if:

  • You are purchasing domestic travel insurance
  • You are booking early but planning to update passport details later
  • Your insurer allows issuing a temporary certificate until passport details are added

However, for international travel, passport information must be updated before:

  • The journey begins
  • The policy activates

It is always recommended to enter passport details as early as possible.

Things to Check Before You Buy Travel Insurance Online

When purchasing travel insurance, always verify:

1. Passport Validity

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date.

2. Coverage You Need

Choose coverage based on:

  • Destination
  • Duration
  • Purpose (tourism, business, student travel)
3. Benefits Included

Good travel insurance should include:

  • Medical emergency cover
  • Baggage loss/delay cover
  • Flight delay benefits
  • Trip cancellation protection
  • Passport loss cover
  • Personal accident cover
4. Exclusions

Read policy exclusions carefully, especially:

  • Adventure sports
  • Pre-existing diseases
  • High-risk destinations
5. Claim Settlement Ratio

Always choose insurers with a high CSR for better claim support abroad.

Steps to Buy Travel Insurance Online Using Passport Number

Buying travel insurance is very simple. Follow these steps:

Step 1: Visit a trusted insurance website or aggregator.
Step 2: Enter travel details like destination, duration, travellers’ age, etc.
Step 3: Compare plans based on coverage and premium.
Step 4: Choose the best plan for your needs.
Step 5: Enter personal details including passport number.
Step 6: Complete payment online.
Step 7: Download the instant travel insurance policy in PDF format.

Your passport number will be mentioned on the policy document for verification.

What to Do If You Lose Your Passport While Travelling?

Most travel insurance policies offer Passport Loss Cover, which helps you with:

  • Cost of issuing a duplicate passport
  • Emergency travel documents
  • Guidance from the nearest Indian embassy
  • Assistance helplines for travellers abroad

If your passport is lost or stolen:

  • Inform your insurer immediately.
  • Contact local police and file a report.
  • Visit the Indian embassy/consulate.
  • Submit documents required for reimbursement.

Having travel insurance makes this stressful situation much easier to manage.

Conclusion

Understanding your passport number and its importance is crucial when travelling abroad. Whether you’re purchasing flights, applying for visas, or buying travel insurance online, your passport number plays a key role in verifying your identity and ensuring smooth travel.

Travel insurance is not just a formality—it is your financial shield against unpredictable events. With online platforms offering quick comparisons, affordable premiums, and instant policy issuance, securing your trip has become simpler than ever.

Always enter the correct passport number, choose the right plan, and travel with confidence knowing you are protected wherever you go.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q.1. What is a passport number?

A passport number is a unique alphanumeric code printed on your passport. It acts as your identification number for international travel and is required for booking flights, applying for visas, and buying travel insurance.

Q.2. Where can I find my passport number in an Indian passport?

You can find your passport number on the top-right corner of the first page (the bio-data page) of your Indian passport. It is printed in bold black letters.

Q.3. How many digits are there in an Indian passport number?

An Indian passport number typically consists of 8 characters—one letter (e.g., K) followed by seven digits (e.g., 1234567).

Q.4. Is a passport number required for buying travel insurance online?

Yes. Most insurers require your passport number to issue an international travel insurance policy. It helps verify your identity and ensures your policy matches your official travel documents.

Q.5. Can my passport number change?

Yes. If you renew, reissue, or replace your passport (due to loss, damage, or expiry), your new passport will have a different number.