Passport Seva: India has officially entered the next chapter of digital travel documentation with the launch of Passport Seva Programme (PSP) 2.0. The announcement came from External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on the occasion of the 13th Passport Seva Divas, where he confirmed that the much-anticipated rollout of e-passports is now underway.

The new generation of e-passports is expected to make international travel smoother and more secure. Built with contactless chip-based technology, these passports are designed to simplify identity verification and speed up immigration procedures. The initiative also reflects broader improvements in India’s passport ecosystem, such as the use of the mPassport Police App, which has reportedly reduced polie verification times to just 5–7 days.

Where Are e-Passports Available Right Now?

Though the rollout is still in phases, several regions in India have already started issuing e-passports. These include cities such as Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Jammu, Panaji, Shimla, Raipur, Amritsar, Jaipur, Chennai, Hyderabad, Surat, Ranchi, and across Tamil Nadu. The service is expected to become available nationwide in the near future.

Who Can Apply for an e-Passport?

The eligibility criteria for applying for an e-passport are the same as those for a regular Indian passport. While e-passports are currently being issued only at select locations, they are expected to become the default option for all new applicants as the programme expands.

Documents Required to Apply for an e-Passport

To apply for an e-passport, you’ll need the following documents:

  • Proof of Address: This can include Aadhaar, PAN Card, bank passbook, utility bill, or similar.
  • Proof of Date of Birth: Acceptable documents include a birth certificate, Aadhaar, voter ID, driver’s license, or matriculation certificate.
  • If you are applying for a passport reissue, you will also need:
  • Your original passport
  • The observation page (if applicable)
  • Copies of the first and last pages of your current passport
  • The page showing ECR (Emigration Check Required) or non-ECR status

How to Apply for an e-Passport in India: Step-by-Step Guide

You can apply for an e-passport either through the Passport Seva Portal or by scheduling an appointment at your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). Here’s how the process works:

  • Step 1: Visit the Passport Seva Online Portal and register for an account.
  • Step 2: Log in and choose ‘Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport’.
  • If this is your first time applying, select the Fresh Issuance category. (This option is for those who have never held an ordinary, diplomatic, or official passport.)
  • Step 3: Fill out the application form and submit it online.
  • Step 4: Under ‘View Saved/Submitted Applications’, click on “Pay and Schedule Appointment”.
  • Note: Online payment is mandatory to book an appointment at any PSK, POPSK, or RPO.
  • Step 5: After payment, print the receipt. It will include your Application Reference Number (ARN) or Appointment Number. You’ll also receive an SMS with your appointment details—keep this handy for your visit.
  • Step 6: On the scheduled day, go to your chosen PSK or Regional Passport Office (RPO) with all original documents for verification and biometric enrolment.

With PSP 2.0 and e-passports, India is taking a big step forward in improving the security, speed, and convenience of passport issuance. As the technology rolls out across the country, travellers can look forward to a smoother experience—right from application to airport.