India Launches e-Passport: How to Apply, Eligibility, and Key Benefits
India has officially rolled out e-Passports in 2025, introducing a new era of secure and digitally enhanced travel documentation. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) confirmed that the e-Passport will include embedded electronic chips to streamline verification, increase protection against fraud, and align India with global travel technology standards.
🔹 What is an e-Passport?
An e-Passport is a biometric-enabled passport that contains an embedded electronic microprocessor chip. This chip securely stores the holder’s biometric and demographic information including:
Name
Date of birth
Passport number
Photograph
Fingerprints (if required)
Digital signature of the issuing authority
🔹 Key Benefits of the e-Passport:
Enhanced Security: Harder to forge or tamper due to embedded chip encryption.
Global Acceptance: Complies with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards.
Faster Immigration Checks: Automated e-gates at airports enable quicker processing.
Reduced Fraud Risk: Difficult to duplicate or misuse.
Tamper-proof Data: Protects personal data against unauthorized access.
🔹 How to Apply for an e-Passport Online?
Here is the step-by-step guide to apply for an e-Passport in India:
Step 1: Register on Passport Seva Portal
Visit the official Passport Seva Portal and register with your email ID and mobile number.
Step 2: Fill the e-Passport Application Form
Login and choose ‘Apply for Fresh Passport / Reissue’. Fill in accurate personal and contact details.
Step 3: Upload Supporting Documents
Required documents include:
Aadhaar Card
PAN Card
Address proof (Electricity bill, Rent agreement, etc.)
Existing Passport (if reapplying)
Step 4: Schedule an Appointment
Choose a convenient Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) location and book an available slot.
Step 5: Pay the Application Fee
Fees are similar to regular passports. You can pay via:
Debit/Credit Card
Net Banking
UPI
Step 6: Visit PSK for Biometric & Document Verification
At the PSK, biometric data such as fingerprints and photograph will be captured.
🔹 Eligibility Criteria for e-Passport:
Must be an Indian citizen.
Age above 18 years for adult passport.
For minors, parental consent and documents are required.
No ongoing criminal cases unless permitted by court.
Valid supporting ID and address proof.
🔹 What’s New in e-Passports Compared to Traditional Ones?
| Feature | Traditional Passport | e-Passport |
|---|---|---|
| Data Format | Printed | Embedded Microchip |
| Verification Time | Manual and longer | Digital and faster |
| Security Level | Moderate | High with encryption |
| Biometric Data | Not stored | Fingerprints & photo stored |
❓ Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Is the e-Passport mandatory for all new applicants?
No, it is being rolled out in phases. However, it will become the standard for all new and renewal applications eventually.
2. What is the cost of an e-Passport?
The fee is currently the same as regular passports. However, fee structures might be revised once the rollout is complete.
3. Can I convert my old passport into an e-Passport?
Yes. You can apply for a passport reissue. Upon reissuing, you will receive the upgraded e-Passport.
4. Will my old passport remain valid?
Yes, old passports remain valid until expiry but will not have e-Passport features.
5. Where will e-Passports be processed?
They will be printed at India Security Press, Nashik, which is equipped with chip personalization capabilities.
Published on: June 25, 2025
Uploaded by: Pankaj
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