The electronic chip in the passport makes it much harder to copy or misuse personal data, ensuring safer international travel for Indian citizens.
Published: November 5, 2025 2:18 PM IST
The Government of India has officially launched electronic passports (e-passports) to make air travel more secure and efficient. This new system aims to improve security, speed up immigration checks, and match international travel standards. More than just a passport upgrade, the e-passport marks an important step toward modern, technology-driven travel for Indian citizens.
What is an E-Passport?
An e-passport looks almost the same as a regular Indian passport, but it has a small electronic chip built into the back cover. This chip safely stores the passport holder’s personal and biometric details, such as fingerprints, facial recognition data, and a digital signature. The technology ensures that the information printed on the passport matches the data stored in the chip, making it extremely difficult to fake or alter.
E-passports can be easily recognized by a gold-colored symbol on the cover. At airports and border checkpoints, this chip allows officers to scan and verify information faster, helping reduce waiting times for passengers and making the travel process smoother and safer.
Who can apply for an e-passport?
Any Indian citizen who is eligible for a regular passport can also apply for an e-passport. However, the facility is currently available only at selected Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) and Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) across the country.
Applicants should first check whether their local passport office has started issuing e-passports before applying.
The Government of India plans to expand the service gradually so that, in the future, both new applicants and those renewing their passports can easily get e-passports.
What is the application process for e-passport?
The process of applying for an e-passport is the same as applying for a regular passport.
- Register on the official Passport Seva Portal.
- Fill out the online application form.
- Pay the required fee online.
- Book an appointment at your nearest PSK or POPSK.
- During your visit, your biometric data (like fingerprints and photographs) will be collected.
After the process is completed, the e-passport is printed with an embedded electronic chip and delivered to your registered address.
What are the benefits of e-passport?
E-passports come with many important benefits, including:
- Improved security and protection against identity theft.
- Faster immigration clearance at airports.
- Stronger global recognition of the Indian passport.
The electronic chip in the passport makes it much harder to copy or misuse personal data, ensuring safer international travel for Indian citizens.
As the e-passport rollout continues, people are encouraged to check if their nearest passport office offers this service before applying.
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Disclaimer : This story is auto aggregated by a computer programme and has not been created or edited by DOWNTHENEWS. Publisher: india.com
