The e-passport launched by the Government of India is a new way of modernizing air travel documentation for all Indians. These passports have been designed to enhance the security systems,s, speed up immigration checks, and align with the global standards. The advantages of the e-passport represent a technological shift in how Indians plan to travel abroad in the years to come.
Around 80 lakh have been issued domestically, and another 62000 by the Indian overseas. If you are looking to obtain these, please read the application process and other details below.
What is an e-Passport?
An e-Passport is very similar to a traditional passport, but it is equipped with an embedded chip inside its back cover. This ship secures your personal data and biometric details like fingerprints, facial recognition, and digital signatures. This technology ensures that the information present on your passports matches the data stored in the chip.
What are the benefits of an e-passport?
e-Passports offer various advantages and unprecedented levels of improved security, faster immigration clearance for all travellers, and a global acceptance of the Indian Passport.
One of the most useful advantages of an e-Passport is the embedded chip, which reduces the risk of identity theft and duplication.
Who can apply for passports?
Any Indian citizen who is eligible for a regular passport can now apply for an e-Passport. The facility is being offered at some of the limited Passport Seva Kendras and Post Office Seva Kendras across India initially.
The interested candidates should confirm whether their local passport office has started issuing e-Passports before applying.
The government plans to expand the service nationwide, considering the scale of this process. This process will ensure that new applicants and those renewing their passports will both be upgraded.
Steps to apply for the application
- To apply for an e-passport, candidates must follow the same process used for a regular passport.
- First, register on the Passport Seva portal, complete the online application form, pay the applicable fee, and book an appointment at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
- During the visit, officials will record the applicant’s biometric details, including fingerprints and a photograph.
- After the application is processed, the e-passport, containing the embedded electronic chip, is printed and delivered to the applicant’s registered address.
What is the application fee for an e-Passport?
The price of a new e-Passport under the regular application process is Rs 1500 in India for 36 36-page booklet and Rs 2000 for 60 60-page booklet. The Tatkal fees are additional and not included in these amounts.
An e-Passport is not an alternative to the standard passports. It is an upgraded version or more versions that are meant to increase transparency and improve the smoothness and efficiency of international border travel.
