India has introduced biometric e-passports with embedded RFID chips to enhance security and expedite international travel. Launched on April 1, 2024, under Passport Seva Programme 2.0, e-passports are currently issued in 13 cities, including Chennai, Delhi, and Hyderabad, with plans to expand nationwide by mid-2025.
Existing valid passport holders are not required to switch immediately but may voluntarily apply for an e-passport for improved security and convenience. The Ministry of External Affairs assures that traditional passports remain valid until expiry and emphasises the enhanced data protection and faster immigration processing offered by e-passports.
Enhanced Security and Convenience with India’s e-Passports
The Indian e-passport features a secure RFID chip and antenna embedded in the cover, storing encrypted personal and biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition details. This chip, identifiable by a gold symbol on the front cover, enables automated identity verification at immigration checkpoints, significantly reducing wait times.
The Ministry of External Affairs highlighted that the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) safeguards the data against tampering and unauthorised access, making forgery and duplication extremely difficult.
Citizens can apply for e-passports online through the Passport Seva Portal and collect them at designated Passport Seva Kendras or Regional Passport Offices. Officials emphasise that while e-passports offer advanced security benefits, the application process remains user-friendly and accessible.
Steps to Apply for an e-Passport in India
- Register on the Passport Seva Portal
- Visit the official Passport Seva Portal (passportindia.gov.in) and click on “Register Now” to create a new account if you are a first-time user.
- Login to Your Account
- Use your registered credentials to log in to the Passport Seva Portal.
- Select Application Type
- Click on “Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport” as per your requirement. If you already have a valid passport and wish to upgrade to an e-passport, select “Re-issue of Passport”.
- Fill Out the Application Form
- Complete the online application form with accurate personal, address, and other required details.
- Upload Required Documents
- Upload scanned copies of the necessary documents, such as proof of identity, address, and date of birth, as per the guidelines.
- Pay the Application Fee
- Pay the applicable fee online using credit/debit card, net banking, or other available payment methods. For regular 36-page passports (10-year validity), the fee is ₹1,500; for Tatkal, it is ₹2,000.
- Schedule an Appointment
- After payment, book an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). You will receive an SMS and/or email confirmation with your appointment details.
- Visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)/POPSK
- On the scheduled date, visit the PSK/POPSK with your original documents and appointment confirmation. Submit your biometrics (fingerprints and photograph) and complete the verification process.
- Application Processing and Police Verification
- Your application will be processed, and if required, a police verification will be conducted at your address.
- Track Application Status and Receive e-Passport
- Track your application status online through the Passport Seva Portal. Once approved, your new e-passport will be printed and dispatched to your registered address.
Voluntary Transition and Ongoing Rollout
The government has made it clear that switching to an e-passport is optional; those holding valid traditional passports can continue using them until they expire. However, many travellers are choosing to upgrade for the added security and faster processing at international borders.
The pilot rollout began in April 2024 in cities including Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Jammu, Goa, Shimla, Raipur, Amritsar, Jaipur, Chennai, Hyderabad, Surat, Ranchi, and Delhi. Tamil Nadu’s Regional Passport Office in Chennai alone has issued over 20,700 e-passports since March 2025.
The government aims to make e-passports available at all Passport Seva Kendras nationwide by mid-2025, signalling a gradual but steady shift towards modernising India’s travel documents.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The Logical Indian views the e-passport initiative as a positive stride towards securing citizens’ identities and enhancing travel efficiency. By adopting global standards and robust encryption technologies, India is safeguarding personal data while easing international travel.
Yet, it is crucial to ensure that this digital transition remains inclusive, addressing concerns about data privacy and digital literacy. As the rollout continues, we invite our readers to reflect: Will the option to upgrade to an e-passport encourage safer and smoother travel for you, or do you have reservations about digital data security?
