E-passport facility launched in India: Learn who can apply for e-passport and its benefits..

India recently officially launched the e-Passport. This is an advanced version of the existing passport, combining both digital technology and physical security. It was launched on April 1, 2024, as part of a pilot project by the Ministry of External Affairs. Currently, this feature is available at select passport offices across the country and will be gradually expanded nationwide in the coming months. The primary purpose of the e-Passport is to make international travel safer, faster, and easier.

What is an e-Passport? (What is an e-Passport in India?)
An e-Passport is a digital, updated version of a regular passport. It contains an RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) chip and antenna, which stores the passport holder's personal and biometric information, such as fingerprints, facial photos, and iris scans. To distinguish it from a traditional passport, it features a small gold symbol on the front cover.

Features of India's e-Passport
The Indian e-Passport is designed in accordance with international ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards. Its key features include:

An electronic chip embedded inside the passport's front cover

Biometric information such as fingerprints, facial photo, and iris scan

Personal information such as name, date of birth, and passport number

Secure encrypted contactless technology.

Fast immigration checks at airports

Reduced chances of passport counterfeiting or forgery

Advantages of e-Passports

E-Passports offer numerous benefits to travelers. The most significant advantage is a faster and easier immigration process. Traveling through automated e-gates at airports saves time. Furthermore, biometric security makes it difficult to counterfeit or forge passports. Complying with ICAO standards is internationally recognized, making it a more reliable and secure option for foreign travel.

Process to Apply for an e-Passport
Applying for an e-Passport is the same as for a regular passport. Follow these steps to apply:

Step 1: First, visit the official Passport Seva Portal.
Step 2: Create a new account or log in to your existing account, then fill out the e-Passport application form.
Step 3: Select your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
Step 4: Pay the application fee online.
Step 5: Schedule an appointment at your chosen center and bring your documents for verification on the scheduled date.

Currently, e-Passports are available only at select centers, but the government plans to make them available nationwide soon. This initiative joins India in the list of countries that offer biometric passports. This step will help make international travel secure, transparent, and convenient.

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