Outlook Business Desk
India has introduced the e-Passport, a digitally enhanced passport storing biometric and personal data securely, aiming to make international travel safer, faster, and in line with global passport standards.
While similar in appearance to a standard Indian passport, an e-Passport includes a microchip that securely holds personal information, photographs, fingerprints, and facial recognition data, preventing forgery or tampering.
The microchip strengthens passport security by storing encrypted biometric data, minimising identity theft and fraud, and safeguarding personal information against any unauthorised access or misuse.
All Indian citizens qualified for a standard passport, whether applying for the first time or renewing, can request an e-Passport at designated Passport Seva Kendras and Post Office centres.
To apply for an e-Passport, applicants need to register online, fill out the form, pay the fees, schedule an appointment, visit the PSK/POPSK and submit biometric details.
The standard e-Passport costs ₹1,500 for 36 pages and ₹2,000 for 60 pages. Additional charges apply for Tatkal or expedited processing services.
Biometric data stored in e-Passports allows automated systems to process travellers efficiently, speeding up entry and exit at airports and improving overall immigration experience globally.
India’s e-Passport meets international standards for secure travel documents, ensuring wider recognition and acceptance for Indian citizens travelling abroad.
The launch of e-Passports marks a major improvement in travel safety and convenience, combining technology, security, and compliance to simplify global movement for Indian citizens.