India has taken a major step toward modernising international travel documents with the launch of the e passport for its citizens.
The new e-passport is designed to strengthen security, speed up immigration checks and align India with global travel standards. It also marks an important shift toward digital and smart travel for Indians who travel abroad.
An e-passport looks similar to a regular Indian passport but includes an embedded electronic chip inside its back cover. This chip securely stores the passport holder’s personal and biometric information. The data includes fingerprints, facial recognition details and digital signatures, which are protected against tampering.
One of the key benefits of the e passport is its advanced level of security. The embedded chip greatly reduces the risk of identity theft, forgery and duplication. This makes international travel safer for Indian citizens. Another important advantage is faster clearance at immigration counters, as officials can verify details quickly using electronic scanners. The e passport also improves global acceptance of the Indian passport.
Any Indian citizen who is eligible for a regular passport can apply for an e passport. However, the service is currently available only at selected Passport Seva Kendras and Post Office Passport Seva Kendras across the country. Applicants must first check whether their nearest centre has started offering the e passport service. The government plans to expand this facility across India in phases so that new applicants and those renewing their passports can benefit.
The application process for an e passport remains the same as the traditional passport system. Applicants must register on the official Passport Seva portal, fill out the online form, pay the required fee and book an appointment at a Passport Seva Kendra or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra. During the visit, biometric details such as fingerprints and photographs are captured. After processing, the e passport with the embedded chip is printed and delivered to the applicant’s registered address.
With this move, India is building a more secure and efficient travel ecosystem and preparing its citizens for seamless global mobility in the digital age.
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