The Indian government has revolutionized the passport world with the introduction of e-Passports. Now, your passport will have a small “magic chip” embedded inside it that will not only protect your personal information like a steel wall but also save you from long queues at international airports. Launched under the Passport Seva Program (PSP) V2.0, this technology is set to take global travel for Indian citizens to a new level.
What is this new e-Passport
Simply put, an e-Passport is a “smart passport.” It will look similar to your old blue passport, but will have a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip and a small antenna embedded beneath its cover.
This chip will digitally store your photo, fingerprints (biometrics), and all your personal information. Its most distinctive feature is a small gold chip symbol on the front cover of the passport, just below the Ashoka Pillar. This technology is so advanced that if someone tries to tamper with your passport, the system will immediately detect it.
Also Read-Post Office NSC: Invest ₹10 Lakh, Get ₹14.49 Lakh in 5 Years, Here’s the Full Calculation
Why is this a new security shield
The introduction of e-passports will provide several major benefits to ordinary travelers. The primary benefit is security. The data stored in the chip is digitally signed, which can be easily authenticated by immigration officials worldwide. This will completely curb fraudulent activities like creating fake passports or traveling on someone else’s passport.
The second major advantage is speed. Major airports abroad now have e-Gates. If you have an e-passport, you won’t have to wait in long lines at the immigration counter for an officer. You simply scan your passport into the machine, and your verification will be completed in a few seconds. This will reduce your airport time by half.
What about your old passport
If you still have your old paper passport, there’s no need to worry. The government has clarified that your old passport will remain valid until its validity expires. There’s no need to replace it immediately.
However, as soon as your passport is up for renewal or you apply for a new passport, you will automatically be issued a new e-passport. You won’t need to fill out a separate form or pay extra money. This process has now been automated at Passport Seva Kendras.
How to Apply for an e-passport Online from Home
The process for applying for an e-passport remains the same. You simply need to visit the Passport Seva Portal and follow these simple steps:
- First, visit the official Passport Seva website and register yourself by creating your ‘User ID’. Select your nearest Passport Office (RPO) correctly.
- After registering, log in and select ‘Apply for a Fresh Passport’ or ‘Re-issue’.
- Carefully fill in all your information, including name, address, and family details, on the online application form.
- After submitting the form, go to ‘Pay and Schedule Appointment.’ Here, you’ll need to pay the fee online, after which you’ll be assigned a time slot at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) of your choice.
- Go to the passport center at the appointed time with your original documents. Your photo and biometrics will be taken there, and after police verification, your new chip-based e-passport will be delivered to your home within a few days.
Also Read-Secret WhatsApp Trick: Keep Your WhatsApp Chats Private with This Hidden Feature