Image Source: Jagran
India has officially launched the next-generation e-passport as part of the Passport Seva Programme 2.0, marking a significant upgrade to its travel documentation with state-of-the-art biometric and digital security features. This rollout, which began as a pilot in April 2024 and has now expanded nationwide in 2025, aligns Indian travel documents with global standards under the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The e-passport uses embedded RFID chips and enhanced biometric identification to offer faster immigration, greater security, and a simplified application process for Indian citizens.
Key Developments at a Glance:
-
e-Passport pilot launched April 1, 2024; nationwide rollout underway in 2025
-
Embedded RFID chip stores biometric data including facial recognition and fingerprints
-
Available at Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) and Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) in select cities
-
Passport Seva Programme 2.0 leverages AI and digital verification to expedite processing
-
Enhanced security protocols reduce risk of forgery and identity theft
-
Faster immigration clearance, especially at airports with automated e-gates
-
Integration with police verification apps has reduced turnaround times to 5-7 days in many states
Eligibility and Application Process
The eligibility criteria for an e-passport are the same as for the traditional passport. Any Indian citizen eligible to apply for a passport can opt for an e-passport, whether it is a first-time application, renewal, or reissue. Even minors and non-resident Indians (NRIs) are included under this scheme.
Application steps:
-
Register or log in at the Passport Seva online portal.
-
Fill out the e-passport application form selecting the desired passport office location.
-
Upload requisite documents verifying identity, address, and date of birth.
-
Pay the prescribed fees online using standard digital payment methods.
-
Schedule an appointment at the preferred PSK or POPSK.
-
Visit the centre on the appointment date for document verification and biometric data capture.
-
Undergo fingerprint and facial biometric authentication.
-
Receive the e-passport with an embedded chip within the stipulated processing time.
-
Benefits of the e-Passport
Improved Security: The RFID chip securely stores encrypted biometric and demographic data, making forgery or alteration extremely difficult.
Global Compliance: Fully compliant with ICAO standards, Indian e-passports are accepted worldwide without compatibility issues.
Faster Immigration: Automated border gates read chip data swiftly, reducing wait times at airports.
Enhanced Privacy: Biometric data ensures the identity of the holder is verified accurately, protecting travelers from identity theft.
Streamlined Processes: Integration with the mPassport Police App has sped up police verification, cutting procedural delays significantly.
Convenience: Citizens enjoy easier application and delivery processes as Passport Seva Programme 2.0 upgrades infrastructure and digitizes services.
Current Availability and Future Plans
The rollout currently covers major cities including Chennai, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Nagpur, Amritsar, Bhubaneswar, Jammu, Shimla, Raipur, Surat, Ranchi, and others. Tamil Nadu has issued over 20,000 e-passports since March 2025. The government plans to enhance passport infrastructure by establishing 400 new Passport Seva Kendras and upgrading 600 existing ones by 2029, ensuring accessibility across all districts in India.
With funding exceeding ₹1,000 crore, the initiative also incorporates AI tools and digital workflows to make passport services more transparent, faster, and citizen-friendly. External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar has termed Passport Seva 2.0 a “game-changer” in India's digital governance journey.
In summary, the e-passport launch represents a transformative step for Indian travelers by embracing advanced technology to safeguard identity, facilitate rapid travel, and align with international security norms. Indian citizens are encouraged to apply for the e-passport via the Passport Seva portal and experience hassle-free, secure global mobility.
Source: Financial Express, India Today, The Economic Times, Outlook Traveller
Advertisement
Advertisement
