When applying for official documents like a passport, Aadhaar card, or even opening a bank account, proof of address is one of the key requirements. Many individuals who do not own property or who have recently moved often rely on a rent agreement as address proof. But is it legally valid and accepted across all government platforms?
Let’s break down everything you need to know about using a rent agreement as a valid address proof, what kind is accepted, how to get one, and how to avoid rejections due to incorrect documentation.
1. Is Rent Agreement Accepted as Address Proof?
Yes, a rent agreement is accepted as a valid address proof—but only if it meets specific criteria. Not all rent agreements are considered valid. The acceptance of the rent agreement depends on:
- The type of document
- The issuing authority
- The registration status of the agreement
Key Point: Only a registered rent agreement, not a notarized one, is accepted as valid address proof by most government departments including the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK).
2. Types of Rent Agreements – Which One Is Valid?
There are two common types of rent agreements:
a. Notarized Rent Agreement
- Made on a non-judicial stamp paper
- Signed by tenant and landlord
- Notarized by a public notary
✅ Valid for private use but NOT acceptable for passport or Aadhaar as per government guidelines.
b. Registered Rent Agreement
- Registered at the sub-registrar office
- Legally binding and verifiable
- Involves biometric and photo verification
✅ Fully acceptable for passport, Aadhaar, bank KYC, driver’s license, etc.
3. Requirements for Rent Agreement to Be Accepted as Address Proof
To use your rent agreement as valid address proof, ensure it includes:
- Full name of tenant (same as ID documents)
- Complete address with house number, city, and pin code
- Landlord’s name and signature
- Tenant’s signature
- Rent period/duration
- Clearly mentioned start and end date
- Stamp duty paid (if applicable)
- Sub-registrar registration stamp and number
Always ensure that the details in the rent agreement exactly match the details in your application forms.
4. How to Get a Registered Rent Agreement
Follow these steps for a legally valid registered rent agreement:
- Draft the agreement using standard legal formats.
- Purchase appropriate stamp paper (value depends on the state).
- Visit the Sub-Registrar Office with:
- Landlord and tenant (both must be present)
- Original ID proofs (Aadhaar, PAN)
- Passport-sized photographs
- Ownership proof of the rented property
- Complete biometric verification.
- Pay registration charges.
- Receive digitally signed registered agreement.
Tip: In states like Maharashtra, online registration is also available through government portals.
5. Rent Agreement for Passport Application
The Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) accepts only registered rent agreements as valid address proof.
Additional Tips:
- The agreement should be at least one year long.
- Your name must appear as the primary tenant.
- Submit with photocopies of landlord’s ID proof if asked.
- Address in the agreement must match your application and police verification form.
If the agreement is not registered, your application may get rejected during the police verification stage.
6. Rent Agreement for Aadhaar and PAN Card
For Aadhaar Card:
- UIDAI accepts registered rent agreements as address proof.
- Notarized rent agreements are not accepted.
For PAN Card:
- Notarized rent agreements may sometimes be accepted by NSDL or UTI agents, but it’s not guaranteed.
- Registered agreements are safer and more universally accepted.
7. Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many applicants face rejections because of the following reasons:
- Submitting a notarized rent agreement
- Using an agreement with incorrect or mismatched names
- Not registering the rent agreement at the sub-registrar office
- Using short-term or expired agreements
- Submitting a handwritten or incomplete document
Always double-check the rent agreement for errors or outdated details before submission.
8. What to Do If You Don’t Have a Registered Rent Agreement
If you do not have a registered rent agreement, consider the following alternatives:
- Submit a utility bill (electricity, gas, water) in your name
- Use bank statements with the current address
- Submit a letter from your employer (on letterhead with HR signature)
- Provide registered lease deed from your PG or hostel
Some documents can be combined with an affidavit of residence for further validation.
9. How We Can Help
At Online Passport Agents, we help you with:
- Drafting and registering rent agreements
- Biometric registration support
- Quick notarization or legalization
- Customized support to ensure your address proof is valid for your passport, Aadhaar, bank, and visa applications
Our experienced team works 24×7 to ensure you never face rejection due to incorrect documents.
We handle everything — from document preparation, registration appointments, to submission-ready paperwork — so you don’t have to worry about compliance issues.