- By Ridam Sharma
- Tue, 13 May 2025 05:10 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
What Is An E-Passport? India has officially entered a new age of travel with the introduction of e-passports in 13 of its cities. The e-passport feature has significantly impacted travel for Indians with its security, convenience, and technological advancements. Here's all you need to know about e-passports and the cities where they are being introduced first.
An e-passport or a biometric passport is a modern era passport with prominent electronic features. The most highlighted feature of the e-passport is its Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip and an antenna integrated in the passport cover or inlay. The chip securely holds the passport owner's personal and biometric details, including photograph, fingerprints, name, date of birth and passport number.
All of this data is digitally encrypted and secured with global security standards such as Basic Access Control (BAC) and Extended Access Control (EAC) so that the passport is extremely tamper-proof, forgery-resistant, and theft-proof.
What Are The Major Features Of An E-Passport?
RFID Chip and Antenna: For a contactless exchange and quick data verification at border checkpoints.
Biometric Data Storage: To protect your facial image, fingerprints, and personal information for secure identity verification.
Improved Security: Possesses Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), which guarantees stored data authenticity and integrity against unauthorised access and fraud.
International Standards: Accepted by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards for global acceptance and compatibility.
What Are The Benefits Of E-Passports
Quicker Immigration: Automatic border control and e-gates can scan and authenticate e-passports in a matter of seconds, which will cut queues and waiting times for passengers.
Increased Security: The encrypted chip and biometric authentication make it difficult to forge or tamper with the passport.
Global Acceptance: Accepted by more than 120 nations and ensures hassle-free international travel for Indian citizens.
Convenience: Simplified application and issuance process, with minimal changes from the conventional passport application process.
Full List Of 13 Indian Cities with First Access to E-Passports
The first phase of India's e-passport implementation is under the Passport Seva Programme 2.0. As of May 2025, e-passports are being issued in the following cities:
| City |
|---|
| Nagpur |
| Bhubaneswar |
| Jammu |
| Goa |
| Shimla |
| Raipur |
| Amritsar |
| Jaipur |
| Chennai |
| Hyderabad |
| Surat |
| Ranchi |
| Delhi |
The Ministry of External Affairs has confirmed that this is only the beginning, with a countrywide implementation expected to cover all Passport Seva Kendras by mid-2025.
How To Apply For An E-Passport?
1. Go to the Passport Seva website or the nearest Passport Seva Kendra.
2. Fill out the application form and book an appointment.
3. Submit the required documents and biometric information at the time of appointment.
If you apply in any of the 13 pilot cities, you will be issued the new e-passport automatically.
India's e-passport initiative is by the Passport Seva Programme, which is revolutionising travel for Indians, with quicker, more secure, and more hassle-free travel. Additionally, e-passports could lower the risks of identity theft.