India launches e-Passport: Here’s everything you need to know about how to apply online, eligibility, and key benefits

External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar unveiled key developments in the Passport Seva Programme (PSP) and confirmed the countrywide implementation of e-Passports.

e-Passports are here in India: Everything you need to know about applying online
e-Passports are here in India: Everything you need to know about applying online

On the occasion of the 13th Passport Seva Divas, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar applauded the dedicated work of passport officials both within India and internationally. He also unveiled key developments in the Passport Seva Programme (PSP) and confirmed the countrywide implementation of e-Passports. In a post on X, Jaishankar praised passport officials both in India and abroad, highlighting their role in what he called a “remarkable transformation” in service delivery over the last ten years.

“Seva, Sushasan and Garib Kalyan are three key pillars of governance that would lead us to a Viksit Bharat. They are all reflected with prominence in our Passport Seva Programme,” he wrote.

The Minister announced that Passport Seva Programme Version 2.0 has been launched nationwide, incorporating advanced and emerging technologies to enhance both efficiency and transparency in the system.

Jaishankar hailed the e-Passport initiative as a significant achievement, noting that its contactless chip-based technology simplifies travel and speeds up immigration procedures. He also highlighted the introduction of the mPassport Police App, which has brought down police verification time to just 5–7 days in 25 States and Union Territories.

How to Apply for an E-Passport Online in India:

To obtain an e-passport through the official Passport Seva platform, follow these steps:

Visit the Passport Seva Portal: Go to the official Passport Seva website managed by the Government of India.

Register or Sign In: If you’re a new user, sign up for an account. Existing users can log in using their credentials.

Fill Out the E-Passport Application: Complete the online form by providing accurate personal and travel information.

Select a Service Location: Choose your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) as per convenience.

Pay the Applicable Charges: Submit the e-passport fee online through available payment options.

Schedule an Appointment: Book a date and time slot for visiting the selected service center.

Attend Your Appointment: Visit the PSK or POPSK at your scheduled time for biometric capture and document verification.

Key Advantages of India’s E-Passport:

Embedded Secure Chip: A microchip is built into the front cover to store critical data securely.

Biometric Details Included: Fingerprints, facial photograph, and iris scans are digitally stored.

Comprehensive Personal Data: Contains name, date of birth, passport ID, and other vital information.

Contactless Technology: Chip can be read without physical contact, ensuring quick and secure access.

Meets ICAO Norms: Fully compliant with the International Civil Aviation Organization’s global standards.

Enhanced Security: Significantly reduces the risk of forgery or duplication, strengthening document authenticity.

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This article was first uploaded on June twenty-five, twenty twenty-five, at twenty-nine minutes past twelve in the night.

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