E-Passports Launched In India: What Are Digital Passports? Check Eligibility And How To Apply

E-Passports India: The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced the successful launch of the e-Passport for Indian citizens. The MEA highlighted that the roll-out of the e-Passport, along with PSP V2.0, represents a major milestone for the country.

An e-Passport is a hybrid document, combining both traditional paper and electronic components. It is equipped with a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip and an antenna, which securely store the passport holder's data, complying with the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). Key personal details, as printed on the passport's data page, are also stored electronically on the chip, enhancing security and enabling more efficient authentication.

Looking ahead, all new passports will be issued as e-Passports. However, existing non-electronic passports will remain valid until their expiration, as per the MEA.

What is an E-Passport?

An e-Passport is a modernised passport that combines paper and electronic features. It includes an RFID chip and an antenna embedded in the passport that contains the holder's personal and biometric information. Visually, the e-Passport is distinguishable by a small gold-colored symbol located beneath the front cover.

The e-Passport will be visually identifiable as a small additional gold colour symbol printed below the front cover of the passport.

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What are benefits of E-Passport?

The primary advantage of the e-Passport is its ability to better protect the integrity of the holder's data. The passport features both printed information and electronically stored data, which is digitally signed and can be securely verified by immigration authorities worldwide. This strengthens passport security, helping to prevent counterfeiting and fraudulent activities, such as the creation of fake passports.

The underlying technology supporting the security of the e-Passport is the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) solution, which is the foundation for safeguarding sensitive information and confirming the integrity and origin of the personal and biometric data stored on the chip within the e-Passport.

Do You Need An e-Passport if You Already Have A Physical Passport?

Existing passports issued by the Indian government will remain valid until their expiration date. Once a passport office is technologically ready to issue e-Passports, citizens applying there will receive an e-Passport. The e-Passport rollout will be phased across all passport offices in India, which may take a few months, as noted on the government website.

How to Apply for an E-Passport? 

The e-Passport offers enhanced security to prevent document fraud. Follow these steps to apply:

Step 1: Visit the official Passport Seva website.

Step 2: Register as a new user or log into your existing account.

Step 3: Fill in the e-passport application form.

Step 4: Schedule an appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra or the Post Office Passport Seva Kendra.

Step 5: Pay the fee online.

Step 6: Visit the selected center on your appointment date for document verification and biometric data capture.

What Documents Are Required For An E-Passport?

- Proof of address (such as Aadhaar or a utility bill)

- Proof of date of birth (such as PAN card or birth certificate)

- Identity proof

- Existing passport (if renewing your passport)