Technology has been evolving at an amazing pace, making our daily lives faster, smarter, and more secure. From digital payments to online identification, innovation is transforming every aspect of life, so why should our passports be left behind? Recognizing this, India introduced the Indian e-passport. These electronic passports promise to enhance air travel safety, reduce fraud, and streamline immigration processes. What exactly is an e-passport, and how will it benefit travelers? We know you have many questions. Do not worry, we’ve got you!
All About e-Passport in India
What is an e-Passport in India?
An e-Passport in India is a modern passport that looks like any other ordinary passport but has an electronic chip embedded in its back cover. It is a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip that securely stores the passport holder’s biometric data and personal information.
It complies with the international standards as per the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). This includes digital photographs, facial recognition data, and fingerprints as well. It combines new electronic features and traditional paper, making it more secure and safe.
Difference between an e-Passport and a normal passport
The main difference between a normal passport and an e-Passport is in the security features and technology used.
A regular passport has personal details printed on it, and its security depends on physical features like watermarks and holograms; immigration checks are done manually, which takes more time. On the other hand, an e-Passport has a tiny electronic microchip embedded in its back cover that stores all the personal and biometric details of the holder. When you travel, the chip can be scanned at automated e-gates at airports, which speeds up immigration processing.
India e-Passport Eligibility
If you are an Indian citizen and are eligible for a regular passport, you can easily apply for an e-passport in India. The eligibility criteria for an e-passport are the same as a normal passport, with no extra qualifications or restrictions.
- You must be an Indian citizen, applying for either a fresh passport or a renewal or re-issue of an existing one.
- There is no separate form for applying for an “e-passport”
- With nationwide rollout ongoing, e-Passports are currently being issued in select cities and passport offices. You can check with your local Passport Seva Kendra or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra to confirm the availability of the service in your city or area.
Benefits of Indian e-Passport
The benefits of the Indian e-Passport primarily revolve around convenience, enhanced security, and faster processing during international travel.
- The e-Passport has a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip, which is nearly impossible to forge or tamper with the passport, protecting your identity better than a regular passport.
- Because of the chip, the data stored cannot be erased or altered, which reduces the risk of fake passports circulating.
- e-Passports can be quickly scanned at automated e-gates at the airport, which reduces the time you spend in immigration queues.
- The e-passport is designed to meet international standards, ensuring smooth acceptance worldwide.
- Biometric data helps authorities track passports more efficiently, reducing incidents of misuse.
India e-Passport Application Process
- Visit the official Passport Seva Portal (passportindia.gov.in) and register as a new user or log in if you already have an account.
- Fill out the online application form for a fresh passport or renewal.
- Upload scanned copies of required documents such as proof of address, proof of date of birth, identity proof, and the old passport, if applicable.
- Pay the passport application fees online through various modes like credit/debit card or net banking
- Schedule an appointment at a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) near you for document verification and biometric data capture.
- On the scheduled date, visit the PSK or POPSK with original documents for verification and biometric registration.
- Wait for the e-Passport to arrive!
e-Passport required documents
The list of required documents is the same as needed for a regular passport. You need to carry both self-attested photocopies and original documents at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) for verification.
- Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Voter ID, Driving License, or Birth Certificate (Identity proof)
- Aadhaar Card, Electricity Bill, Water Bill, Rent Agreement, Bank Passbook, or Telephone Bill (address proof)
- Birth Certificate, Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, Driving License, or School Leaving Certificate/Matriculation Certificate (birthdate proof)
- Original old passport if applying for renewal or re-issue.
- If applying for a minor, the birth certificate of the child, along with address proof in the name of the parents, and parents’ passport copies.
Summing Up
This innovation of e-Passports aims to make air travel more secure, faster, and more convenient for millions of travelers. So, what are you waiting for? Get your e-Passports now!
