e-Passport for Indians

What is an e-Passport? 

A biometric passport with an electronic chip embedded that safely stores the passport holder's biometric and personal information is known as an e-passport in India. This chip-based e-passport complies with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards offering enhanced security against tampering and identity theft.

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e-Passport for indians

The Indian government has recently launched a biometric passport or e-passport and has joined the list of more than 120 nations that are providing such a facility. The launch of a biometric passport is a significant move in improvising India’s travel documentation system and aligns with the government’s ‘Digital India’ initiative. The biometric passport is introduced with the aim of reducing passport holders’ data duplication while maintaining integrity and security. Read on to know more about the biometric passport or e-Passport. 

How to Apply for an e-Passport

Applying for an e-passport is very similar to the process for a standard passport. In many cases, if you apply for a new passport or a reissue, you will be automatically issued an e-passport if your local Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) is equipped to do so. Follow the steps mentioned below to apply for an e-passport:

Step 1: Visit the Passport Seva Website  

Step 2: Fill out the e-passport application after logging in or registering  

Step 3: Choose either the Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) or the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)  

Step 4: Pay the e-passport fees that apply  

Step 5: Schedule an appointment  

Step 6: For document verification and biometric data collection, visit PSK/POPSK.  

Fees and Charges for an e-Passport

The fees and charges for a biometric passport are similar to those of a regular passport. Check the table given below: 

Type of Passport 

Validity Period 

Number of Pages 

Fee (Normal) 

Fee (Tatkal) 

Biometric Passport 

10 years 

36 

Rs.1,500 

Rs.3,500 

Biometric Passport 

10 years 

60 

Rs.2,000 

Rs.4,000 

Biometric Passport for Minor 

5 years 

36 

Rs.1,000 

Rs.3,000 

Documents Required to Apply for an e-Passport

Given below is the list of documents you will need to apply for an e-passport:

  1. Proof of address such as Aadhaar, PAN Card, bank passbook, utility bill etc.
  2. Proof of birth such as birth certificate, Aadhaar, voter id, driving license, matriculation certificate, etc.
  3. In case you are getting your passport re-issued you will have to submit your original passport, observation page, copy of first and last page of their passport, and ECR or Non-ECR page.

Benefits of an e-Passport 

Some of the benefits of the biometric passport are as given below: 

  1. Enhanced Security and Data Protection: The microchip embedded in an e-passport makes it harder for criminals to tamper with your personal data. It protects your identity from fraud and unauthorized access, offering more security than traditional passports. 
  1. Faster Immigration and Travel: Biometric passports allow you to use automated e-gates at airports, which can drastically reduce the time you spend in immigration queues giving you a quick and seamless travel experience. 
  1. Reduced Risk of Identity Fraud: Because an e-passport links your physical biometric data (like fingerprints and a digital photograph) directly to the passport, it becomes nearly impossible for someone to impersonate you preventing any kind of identity theft and misuse of the document. 
  1. Simplified Global Recognition: Standardization of e-passport based on lines of International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) ensures that your passport is easily verifiable and accepted at international airports. 
  1. Streamlined Verification at Foreign Airports: An e-passport allows the immigration officers to verify your identity and travel history more efficiently simplifying the inspection process at foreign airports. 

Features of e-Passport

The main features of an ePassport are mentioned below:

  1. Storage Capacity: The chip will have a memory space of 64 kilobytes, providing ample room for secure data. 
  2. Biometric Data: Your fingerprints and a high-resolution photograph will be securely stored on the chip for identity verification.
  3.  Holographic Security: The e-passport will feature embossed holographic images that change colors when tilted, making it difficult to counterfeit.
  4. Biometric Information: All of your biometric information, including fingerprints, will be stored to ensure the highest level of security. 
  5. Demographic Information: The chip will also contain your key demographic details, such as your name, date of birth, and address. 
  6. Enhanced Security Measures: An iris scan may be captured and stored to add another layer of biometric security, making the document even more secure. 
  7. Digital Signature: The e-passport will include a digital signature to authenticate the document and verify its integrity. 

The passport's printing, paper quality, and security features will all be enhanced. The Ministry of Finance will shortly offer chip-based passport. India Security Press (ISP) in Nasik has been granted permission by the government to buy the electronic contactless inlays required to create e-passports and interoperable with the International Civil Aviation Organisation.

Who Can Get an e-Passport?

All Indian citizens will be eligible to obtain an e-passport.

How Does a Microchip-based e-Passport Work in India?

The following are details regarding how microchip-based E-Passport work in India:

  1. The microchip embedded enables to store and transfer data electronically
  2. Up to 60-kilobyte of data can be stored inside the chip which includes all type data related to the passport holder
  3. The antenna at the back of the passport allows transfer of data automatically at the check gates

Where Can You Use an e-Passport?

Here are the following usages of an E-Passport:

  1. Can be used as identification while travelling like traditional or standard passport
  2. To avoid long queues and speed up the security checks, you can use E-Passport during domestic and international travel
  3. Can be used as an identification proof not only while travelling but in other situations as well

What’s the Difference between an e-Passport and a Regular Passport? 

Here is a table comparing the differences between an e-Passport and a regular passport:

Feature 

e-Passport 

Regular Passport 

Chip Embedded 

Yes 

No 

Stores Biometric Information  

Yes 

No 

Faster Immigration 

Yes 

No 

Security Level 

High 

Basic 

Prevention of Fraud 

Strong 

Limited 

What Data is Stored on an e-Passport?

The following is the list of data of the passport holder stored on an E-Passport:

  1. The photo of the passport holder 
  1. Biometric information such as fingerprints 
  1. Full name, gender, birthdate, address, and other demographic information 
  1. The issuing authority's digital sign 
  1. Issue/Expiry dates and a unique passport ID. 

List of Cities Issuing e-Passports in India 

As of 2025, a few cities will be issuing e-passports: 

  1. Delhi 
  1. Bengaluru 
  1. Mumbai 
  1. Chandigarh 
  1. Kochi 
  1. Chennai 
  1. Lucknow 
  1. Ahmedabad 
  1. Hyderabad 
  1. Kolkata 
  1. Guwahati 

How Does an e-Passport Work?

  1. An e-passport contains a secure microchip with a storage capacity of up to 60 kilobytes, embedded directly into the booklet. 
  1. The chip stores and secures crucial information about the passport holder, including personal details, a digital photograph, and biometric data like fingerprints. 
  1. A built-in antenna allows the chip to communicate wirelessly with passport readers at airports and border control points. 
  1. When the e-passport is scanned, the data is automatically and securely transmitted to the reader. The information is encrypted to prevent unauthorized access or alteration. 
  1. This technology makes it virtually impossible to counterfeit the passport or tamper with the stored data, thereby improving security and speeding up the verification process at borders. 

How to Track the Status of an e-Passport

To track the status of an e-passport, follow the steps given below: 

  1. Navigate to the Passport Seva Status Tracker 
  1. Enter your date of birth and file number below 
  1. Check the status of your passport application. 

FAQs on e-Passport

  • What is an e-passport?

    An e-passport comes with an embedded electronic chip that stores your biometric data. It comes with advanced security features to curb fraud and counterfeiting.

  • For how many years is a biometric passport valid?

    A biometric passport has validity similar to a regular passport, which means it is valid for up to 10 years for adults and for up to five years for minors. 

  • Is it mandatory for the existing passport holders to replace their regular passport with a biometric passport?

    No, it is not mandatory for the existing passport holders to replace their regular passport with a biometric passport.  

  • Can I submit my e-Passport application online?

    Yes, you can conveniently submit your e-Passport application online through the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) website. Begin by registering on the portal and selecting either the option for a new e-Passport application or renewal. 

  • How can I replace an old passport with an e-Passport?

    If you wish to upgrade to an e-Passport, you need to apply for re-issuance. Submit your original passport along with the required documents to the PSK authorities. Upon successful processing, you will receive your new e-Passport. 

  • How long will it take to receive my e-Passport?

    The processing time for an e-Passport typically ranges from 7 to 21 days. The exact duration depends on factors such as the type of application and the complexity of your case. 

  • What if my e-Passport is lost?

    If your e-Passport is lost, you must immediately report it to the police and obtain a First Information Report (FIR). After that, notify the Passport Seva Kendra or the concerned passport issuing authority. Submit the FIR along with the required documents to apply for a replacement passport.

  • Who is eligible for an e-Passport?

    e-Passports are available to all Indian citizens who are eligible for a regular passport. The eligibility criteria remain consistent for both types of passports. 

  • Are e-passports available in India?

    India Security Press, Nashik has been given approval by the government to procure electronic contactless inlays required for manufacturing e-passports.

News on e-Passport

Government Begins ePassport Issuance Under Passport Seva 2.0

At the 13th Passport Seva Divas, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar shared new updates about the Passport Seva Programme. The new version of the Passport Seva system is known as PSP 2.0. This new technology will make the passport process more transparent. This system will be available in other countries as well as the testing of this system has also started in Indian embassies and consulates. These passports have a small chip that stores the holder’s personal and biometric details. This new version aims to provide a smoother and more secure experience for people applying for passports. This e-passport can be applied through the Passport Seva website by registering or logging in, filling out the form, choosing a nearby service center, paying the fee, and booking an appointment. 

15 July 2025

India launches Passport Seva 2.0

The External Affairs Minister of India, Dr. S. Jaishankar, on 24 June 2025, launched the new and upgraded version of the Indian passport. The new version comes with enhanced features, including an e-chip that holds all vital information of the cardholder, including their biometric details. The encryption and chip technology make it more secure and tamper-resistant. They also adhere to the ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organisation) standards, making it recognised globally. The new passports will be rolled out in phases, as per the reports. 

27 June 2025

New Indian E-Passport for the UAE Residents 2025

The upgraded Indian passports have been rolled out for the Indians residing in the UAE. From RFID chips to colour-coded passbook covers, Indian passports are set for an extensive transformation. The major upgrade is the chip-based e-passport that stores all relevant information, including biometric details of the passport holder, to improve data security. The residential address is also now stored digitally, instead of printing it on the last page of the passport. Birth certificates for kids born on or after 1 October 2023 have been made mandatory, while scrapping the rule of having a marriage certificate to add the spouse’s name to the passport. 

 Another major change is the removal of having parents’ names from the passport to promote inclusivity. This change makes it easier for people from nontraditional families and backgrounds to apply for passports, simpler. To make identification easier, India is also introducing colour- coded passport covers, with white and red for government officials and diplomats, respectively. For regular citizens, the colour blue remains unchanged.  

3 June 2025

Government of India Issues E-Passports with Better Security

India has joined over 120 countries in introducing e-passports to make travel documents more secure and up to date. These high security e-passports will help in improving the safety and make international travel easier for Indian citizens. The e-passports are embedded with a special chip that holds important details such as the passport holder’s photo and fingerprints. The new system also matches global standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization, which means that these passports will be accepted in most parts of the world. The manufacturing of e-passports is being handled by the India Security Press in Nashik. For now, they are being given out in a few cities, but the government is planning to expand the service across the country by mid-2025. People who want to apply can do it online through the Passport Seva website or by visiting the Passport Seva Kendra. The process to apply remains the same as the regular passport. This step is expected to speed up immigration checks at airports and reduce the risk of passport fraud. 

19 May 2025
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