E-Passport- Good news for everyone. Finally E-Passport service has been started in India. Anyone wishing to travel abroad needs a passport. Without one, you cannot travel abroad. Normally, a paper passport is issued. However, India has recently introduced the e-passport feature, which is an advanced and more secure version of the current passport. The Ministry of External Affairs launched it as a pilot project on April 1, 2024.
Currently, this facility is only available at select passport service centers. However, there are plans to expand it nationwide in the near future. E-passports incorporate digital technology and a high-level security system, which significantly reduces the possibility of fraud and counterfeit passports. Let us explain the special features of e-passports and how to apply for them.
What is e-passport?
Many people may be wondering what an e-passport is. Will there be no need to carry a passport anymore? Will there be a PDF version of the passport, like an e-PAN? Well, let me tell you, that’s not going to happen. An e-passport is essentially a digital and secure passport, equipped with an RFID chip and antenna. This chip stores the passport holder’s biometric information, such as fingerprints, face photo, and iris scan.
It also stores personal information such as name, date of birth, and passport number. A golden symbol has been created on the cover to identify this passport. Significantly, the Indian e-passport is designed according to the standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO), making it recognized even abroad.
Benefits of e-passport
E-passports offer numerous benefits to travelers. Faster immigration checks and easier passage through automated e-gates at airports save time. A secure biometric system significantly reduces the likelihood of passport counterfeiting or forgery. Furthermore, these passports are considered more trustworthy internationally.
How can you apply?
The process for applying for an e-passport is similar to that for a regular passport. Log in to the Passport Seva Portal, fill out the form, select the nearest Passport Seva Kendra, and schedule an appointment for document verification. Currently, this facility is available only at select centers, but will soon be implemented nationwide.