E-Passport: Passports are no longer just books with covers and pages; they now incorporate modern technology. India has launched an electronic chip-enabled e-passport, which stores important identity information in a secure digital chip. If you are planning to get a new passport or renew your old one, this information about the e-passport is essential for you.
What is an E-Passport?
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An e-passport looks exactly like a regular Indian passport, but it has a special electronic chip embedded in the back cover. This chip securely stores the passport holder’s photo, fingerprints, facial recognition data, and other necessary information in an encrypted form. This technology makes it extremely difficult to counterfeit or tamper with the passport. The e-passport is designed according to international standards to avoid any problems during international travel.
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Who can apply for an E-Passport?
Any Indian citizen eligible for a regular passport can also apply for an e-passport. Whether you are applying for a passport for the first time or renewing an old one, you can apply for an e-passport in both case. Currently, this facility is available only at select Passport Seva Kendras and Post Office Passport Seva Kendras, so please check before applying whether your nearest center issues e-passports.
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How to apply for an E-Passport?
The application process for an e-passport is the same as for a regular passport. First, you need to register or log in to the Passport Seva portal. After that, you have to fill out the online form for a new passport or renewal. After completing the form, you have to pay the prescribed fee and book an appointment. On the scheduled date, you have to visit the Passport Seva Kendra to complete the document verification and biometric process. After all the steps are completed, the e-passport will be sent to your address.
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What is the fee for an E-Passport?
The fee for an e-passport is the same as for a regular passport. The fee for a 36-page passport booklet is ₹1,500, and for a 60-page booklet, it is ₹2,000. An additional fee is charged for the Tatkal (expedited) service.
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Advantages of E-Passports
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The biggest advantage of e-passports is their enhanced security. The electronic chip and encryption technology make it significantly more difficult to forge passports. Biometric scanning during immigration checks speeds up the process, saving travelers time. Furthermore, these passports conform to international standards, making them more readily accepted during international travel.