India has started issuing e passports across the country, introducing a new digital layer of security for travellers. The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that all new passports will now include an embedded RFID microchip supported by advanced digital protections to speed up authentication and reduce risks of identity fraud.
The government has clarified that all existing passports will stay valid until their expiry dates. People applying for fresh passports or renewals will automatically receive the new e passport. There is no requirement for current passport holders to replace their documents before expiry.
An e passport works as a traditional booklet that also carries a secure chip inside the cover. As explained on the Passport Seva Portal, the chip stores personal information, a photograph, biometric details and digitally signed authentication data. A gold biometric symbol on the front cover indicates the presence of the chip. The RFID technology enables fast machine readable verification that aligns with global security standards. Since the stored data is digitally signed, immigration systems worldwide can validate it immediately.
For travellers using older passports, nothing changes until renewal. All current booklets remain valid in India and abroad. The transition to e passports will take place step by step as citizens renew their documents. The government is expanding the new issuance process across passport offices in phases and expects full national coverage soon.
The new chip enabled system is expected to reduce wait time at major airports. It supports biometric verification at automated gates, which helps in smooth movement and reduces manual checks. The digital security additions are designed to prevent tampering and duplication. Any attempt to counterfeit stored information can be detected quickly through global immigration systems. The security framework uses Public Key Infrastructure, an international standard for protecting sensitive identity data.
The Ministry has also stated that the production of e passports will continue at the India Security Press in Nashik. The facility has upgraded its systems to meet global standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation, ensuring secure and interoperable verification across borders.
Travellers can expect faster processing, improved security, fewer manual procedures and seamless authentication at global airports as India moves towards a digitally enhanced passport system.
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