e-passport launch: The Indian government has taken a major step towards modernizing the travel documentation system for air travel. The government has officially launched electronic passports (e-passports). These e-passports will not only strengthen security but also speed up the immigration process and align with international travel standards. Beyond all these benefits, e-passports mark a technological breakthrough for India that will completely transform the way Indians travel abroad in the coming years.
What is e-passport?
An e-passport resembles a traditional Indian passport in appearance, but it has an electronic chip embedded in the back cover. This chip securely stores the passport holder’s personal and biometric information, including fingerprints, face recognition data, and a digital signature.
Furthermore, this technology ensures that the information printed on the passport matches the data integrated into the chip exactly. This makes it virtually impossible to copy or tamper with the passport.
However, e-passports feature a special gold symbol on the cover to make them easily identifiable at airport and border security checkpoints. This electronic chip in the passport allows for faster scanning and verification of passengers and speeds up the immigration process, eliminating the need for travelers to wait in long queues.
Who can apply for E-Passport?
Any Indian who can obtain a regular passport can also apply for an e-passport. Initially, this facility is available only at Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) and Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs).
So, if you’re considering an e-passport, be sure to confirm whether your local passport office is currently issuing e-passports before applying. Given the scale of this process, the government plans to gradually roll it out nationwide. This will ensure that both new passport applicants and those renewing their old passports can benefit from this new e-passport facility.
What is the application process?
The process for applying for an e-passport is exactly the same as for a traditional passport. Applicants must register on the official Passport Seva portal and fill out the online form. They will then need to schedule an appointment at a Passport Seva Kendra or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra, pay the required fees, and then apply.
Biometric data of the applicant like fingerprints and photograph will be taken during the appointment.
Once processed, the e-passport with embedded chip can be printed and sent to the applicant’s registered address.
What are the benefits of e-passport?
There are many benefits of an e-passport, most notably improved security, faster immigration clearance for travellers, and increased acceptance of the Indian passport worldwide.
The biggest advantage of an e-passport is that the electronic chip embedded in it significantly reduces the risk of identity theft or duplication. This makes international travel safer than ever for Indian citizens.
As the e-passport facility expands, travellers can check whether this facility is available at their nearest passport office or service centre. Overall, this e-passport initiative is a historic shift towards a smart and secure travel ecosystem for India that will make global travel easier and digitally enabled for Indian citizens in the future.