India has finally started formally implementing e-passports. It is a tremendous combination of modern electronic technology and traditional passport design, which will enhance identity and security manifold for those traveling abroad.
This initiative is a major change in the way Indian passports are issued and verified and has been introduced under the updated Passport Seva Program (PSP) version 2.0, which started on April 1, 2024. So, if you are also planning to travel abroad, then know how this new e-passport is going to be beneficial for you.
e-Passport
India’s adoption of e-passport reflects a progressive approach towards citizen services, as international travel is increasingly becoming tech-driven and security-focused. It is not just about speeding up immigration lines, but also about protecting identity in the digital world. Now your travel is going to be even more secure and convenient.
An e-passport is available in these cities
Nagpur, Raipur, Bhubaneswar, Goa, Jammu, Amritsar, Shimla, Jaipur, Chennai, Surat, Hyderabad, and Ranchi are among the cities in the country where the pilot project of e-passport is currently going on. There are strong plans to expand this service across the country.
On March 3, 2025, the Regional Passport Office of Chennai launched it in Tamil Nadu! 1 In this state alone, 20, 729 e-passports had been issued by March 22, 2025. This figure shows how quickly people are adopting this new technology.
How will it strengthen your identity and security
An antenna and a small radio frequency identification (RFID) chip are embedded in the cover of an Indian e-passport. This chip stores the biometric and personal information of the passport holder, ensuring better security and faster verification.
To identify an e-passport, just look for a unique golden symbol printed on the bottom of the front cover. This passport provides better protection against fraud, identity theft, and forgery, which is very important when crossing borders. Now your identity will be digitally secure.
Is it necessary to replace the old passport
Not always, The government has clearly stated that existing passports will remain valid till their expiry date. At present, switching to an electronic passport is voluntary, that is, it depends on your wish. However, in the future, e-passport may become an indispensable part of international travel, given the increasing needs and security.
How to apply for an e-passport in India
Citizens in Nagpur, Chennai, Jaipur, Hyderabad, and other cities can now apply for an e-passport online. It can be obtained from Specialized Passport Seva Kendras (PSKS) or Regional Passport Offices (RPOs). So, if you also want to get an e-passport, then the online process is the easiest option for you.
- Apply online for an e-passport
- Register on the official Passport Seva online portal to new apply.
- Now log in using your registered ID.
- Select “Apply for New Passport/Re-issue of Passport”. Select “New” if you are applying for a type of passport for the first time, or “Re-issue” if you already have the same type of passport. Book an online appointment and pay the fees.
- During your appointment, you can print or save your application receipt or simply submit the SMS confirmation.
- On the next due date, take the all original documents to your chosen PSK or the RPO.