A New Era for Indian Passports
India has stepped into a new era of travel documentation with the launch of e passports under the Ministry of External Affairs’ Passport Seva Program 2.0. First introduced on a pilot basis in April 2024, e passports are now being rolled out across the country. These upgraded passports bring advanced security and global compatibility, making international travel safer and smoother for Indian citizens.4
What Makes an E Passport Different
An e passport looks almost identical to the traditional Indian passport but is equipped with advanced technology. Embedded in its cover is a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip and antenna that store the holder’s biometric details, including fingerprints and a digital photograph. This makes the document highly secure and extremely difficult to forge. The cover carries a small gold emblem that distinguishes it from the standard booklet. Most importantly, e passports meet International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, ensuring global acceptance.
Availability Across India
Initially launched in select Passport Seva Kendras in Chennai, Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar, Surat, Nagpur, Goa, Jammu, Shimla, Raipur, Amritsar, Jaipur, Ranchi, and Delhi, the service has now been extended nationwide. Citizens across India can apply for e passports, although some centres may take additional time to upgrade their facilities. Those with valid regular passports do not need to switch immediately, as existing documents remain valid until their expiry.
Who Can Apply and What You Need
The eligibility for an e passport is the same as that of a regular passport. Any Indian citizen eligible for a standard passport can also apply for an e passport. The required documents remain unchanged—proof of identity, proof of address, and proof of date of birth. Applicants must also complete biometric capture and in person verification at their chosen Passport Seva Kendra.
How to Apply for an E Passport
The application process has been designed to be user friendly. Applicants must first visit the Passport Seva portal online, register or log in, and fill in the application form. The next step is to choose a Passport Seva Kendra or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra for processing. After paying the fees online and scheduling an appointment, applicants must visit the centre with the necessary documents. Officials will then complete the verification process and capture biometric data before issuing the e passport.
Benefits of the E Passport
The e passport offers several advantages for travellers. Enhanced security is one of the biggest benefits, as biometric and electronic features make it nearly impossible to counterfeit. Immigration checks become faster and more reliable, reducing waiting times at airports, especially in countries with automated e gates. Global acceptance ensures smoother travel, while the added security protects citizens from identity theft and misuse of travel documents.
Looking Ahead
The e passport is part of India’s broader push to modernise and digitise its passport services. While it may take time before every citizen has access to the new format, the nationwide rollout signals India’s commitment to global standards in travel security. For those applying for new passports or renewing existing ones, opting for the e passport offers a smarter, safer, and more future ready choice.
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