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How to Apply for an Indian E-Passport?
How to Apply for an Indian E-Passport: India has taken a major leap in secure travel documentation with the launch of the e-passport, a next-generation upgrade to the traditional paper passport. First rolled out as a pilot project by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on April 1, 2024, e-passports are now available at select Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) and Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs). The government aims to make this facility accessible nationwide by the end of 2025.
How to Apply for an Indian E-Passport?
What Is an E-Passport?
An e-passport, also called a biometric passport, is a standard passport embedded with a contactless radio frequency identification (RFID) chip and a miniature antenna. This chip digitally stores:
- Personal details: Name, date of birth, gender, passport number, and nationality
- Biometric identifiers: Fingerprints, high-resolution facial photograph, and iris scans
- Digital signature and certificate: Issued and encrypted by the Government of India for verification
A small gold-colored rectangular chip symbol below the word Passport on the cover indicates that the passport is electronic.
Why India Introduced E-Passports
- Global Standardization: Over 120 countries already issue ICAO-compliant e-passports.
- Security Enhancement: Reduces counterfeiting, data tampering, and identity theft.
- Faster Immigration: Supports automated e-gates at major international airports.
- Digital Transformation: Aligns with the government’s Digital India initiative for paperless, tech-driven services.
Key Features of India’s E-Passport
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Embedded RFID chip | Securely stores personal and biometric data |
| International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) compliance | Ensures global acceptance |
| Encrypted contactless technology | Protects against unauthorized scanning |
| High durability | Polycarbonate data page with laser engraving to prevent wear and tear |
| Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) | Enables quick electronic scanning at airports |
Advantages of E-Passports for Travellers
- Speed & Convenience: Automated e-gates cut immigration queues drastically.
- Advanced Security: Encrypted chip prevents duplication and skimming.
- Worldwide Recognition: Smooth entry in countries where e-gates are standard (EU, USA, Singapore, UAE, etc.).
- Longer Lifespan: Laser-engraved data page resists damage and tampering.
- Reduced Human Error: Electronic data transfer minimizes manual input mistakes at immigration counters.
Eligibility for an Indian E-Passport
- Indian Citizenship: Any citizen eligible for a regular passport can apply.
- New Applicants and Renewals: Both first-time applicants and those renewing expiring passports may opt for an e-passport.
- Minors: Children can also be issued e-passports; biometric data capture depends on age (fingerprints typically after 12 years).
Tip: If you hold a valid traditional passport, you may continue to use it until expiry. You can switch to an e-passport during the next renewal cycle.
How to Apply for an Indian E-Passport?
Step-by-Step Application Process
- Online Registration:
Visit the official Passport Seva Portal (passportindia.gov.in) and create or log in to your account. - Fill Out the Application:
Choose “Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue”, select e-passport as the type, and complete the form. - Fee Payment:
Pay the standard passport fee online (current fee is the same as a regular passport; check the latest rates on the portal). - Book an Appointment:
Pick your nearest PSK or POPSK where e-passport services are available. - Document Verification & Biometrics:
Carry mandatory documents (Aadhaar, proof of address, proof of date of birth, and old passport if renewing). At the centre, officials will capture fingerprints, photograph, and iris scan. - Police Verification:
Standard police verification rules apply, depending on your case (fresh or renewal). - Delivery:
After successful verification, the e-passport is printed at the India Security Press, Nashik, embedded with the RFID chip, and dispatched via speed post.
Security Tips for Travellers
- Protect Your Passport: Use RFID-blocking sleeves or covers to prevent unauthorized scanning.
- Keep Digital Backups: Store a copy of your passport’s data page and e-ticket securely in cloud storage.
- Report Loss Immediately: In case of theft or loss, notify the nearest Indian mission or Passport Seva Kendra and local police without delay.
Future Expansion Plans
The MEA is working with Immigration, Customs, and airport authorities to install automated e-gates at major Indian airports such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. By late 2025, most international terminals are expected to support self-service immigration, similar to those in Europe and Singapore.
Key Takeaways
- Nationwide Rollout: Phased expansion across all states by 2025.
- Cost-Effective: No significant increase in application fees compared to a regular passport.
- Travel Advantage: Faster, safer, globally recognized—ideal for frequent travellers.
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