E-passports, also known as biometric passports, represent a major leap in modernizing India’s passport system. An e-passport is an electronic passport embedded with a small microchip that stores the holder’s key personal and biometric information. The chip contains details like the holder’s name, date of birth, digital photograph, fingerprints, and a digitally signed certificate from the issuing authority.
The chip is compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, making Indian e-passports globally recognizable and secure. With the introduction of the e-passport, India now offers a technologically advanced and more secure version of the traditional passport, aimed at making international travel safer and more efficient. Here’s everything you need to know about it.
)
Anyone eligible for a standard Indian passport is also eligible for an e-passport. This includes individuals applying for a new passport, those renewing expired ones, applicants requesting a reissue due to loss, theft, or damage, as well as children and senior citizens.
Key Features
1. Embedded Microchip: Contains a secure 64 KB chip that stores encrypted personal and biometric data.
2. ICAO Compliance: Designed according to international aviation standards for global acceptance.
3. Digitally Signed Data: All data in the chip is digitally signed to prevent tampering or unauthorized access.
4. Machine-Readable Zone: Includes scannable information that speeds up processing at immigration checkpoints.
5. Secure Printing and Lamination: Printed on high-quality, tamper-resistant material with advanced security features.
6. Contactless Data Access: Uses RFID technology to allow seamless chip reading without physical contact.
Benefits
Enhanced Security: Personal data is encrypted and protected against cloning and unauthorized use.
Faster Immigration: Significantly reduces processing time at immigration counters and e-gates.
International Acceptance: Accepted in countries using biometric verification systems.
Reduced Forgery: Much harder to counterfeit than traditional passports.
How To Apply for an E-Passport (Step-by-Step Guide)
1. Visit the official Passport Seva Portal.
2. Register or log in, then fill out the application form.
3. Choose the passport type and select e-passport if available in your region.
4. Pay the applicable fee.
5. Book an appointment at the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office PSK (POPSK).
6. Visit the center for biometric data collection and document verification.
7. Once approved and printed, your e-passport will be delivered to your address via India Post.
E-passports are currently being issued only to diplomatic and official passport holders. Full availability is expected soon across all Passport Seva Kendras.
Cities where e-passports have already been issued include Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chandigarh, Kochi, Chennai, Lucknow, Hyderabad, and Kolkata.
Newsletter
