The Indian government has introduced electronic passports to streamline global travel by enabling automated identity verification at immigration checkpoints and reducing delays at airports. This move falls under the broader digital transformation effort known as Passport Seva Program (PSP) 2.0. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, the e-passport was initially introduced as a pilot project on April 1, 2024. Currently, only a few designated passport offices across India have the facilities to issue these upgraded passports.
Latest updates reveal that ePassports are presently available at select passport centers located in cities such as Chennai, Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar, Surat, Nagpur, Goa, Jammu, Shimla, Raipur, Amritsar, Jaipur, and Ranchi.
What is an e-passport?
An e-passport is a digitally enhanced version of a standard passport. It contains a tiny embedded RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chip and an internal antenna, typically placed within the back or front cover. This chip securely holds key personal and biometric data, including facial recognition details and fingerprint information. You can identify an e-passport by the gold-colored chip logo printed on its front cover.
How to apply an e-Passport in India:
Indian citizens can now submit applications for e-passports through the online Passport Seva platform and collect them from designated Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) or Regional Passport Offices (RPOs).
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an e-Passport
Create an Account
Begin by signing up on the Passport Seva Online Portal.
Log In
Use your registered credentials to log in to your account.
Start a New Application
Select the option “Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport.”
Choose “Fresh” if you’ve never had this type of passport.
Choose “Re-issue” if you’re renewing or updating an existing one.
Complete Payment and Book a Slot
Pay the applicable fee online and schedule an appointment at your preferred passport office.
Save Your Receipt
Either print the receipt or keep the SMS confirmation handy for the appointment day.
Visit the Passport Office
On the scheduled date, go to the selected PSK or RPO with your original documents for verification and biometric capture.
Key features of India’s e-Passport:
The Indian e-passport comes with advanced tech upgrades that enhance security and speed up identity checks:
Built-in electronic chip located in the front cover
Holds biometric information like fingerprint data, a digital photo, and iris scans
Includes personal details such as full name, birth date, passport number, and more
Features a contactless chip that allows encrypted and secure data exchange
Meets international guidelines set by the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization)
Helps prevent identity fraud and counterfeiting by making forgery more difficult
