How to apply for an E-Passport in India: Step-by-step guide

India has officially introduced chip-based e-passports, aiming to streamline air travel and enhance security. The new biometric passports, part of the Passport Seva Programme 2.0, began rolling out as a pilot project in select cities from April 1, 2024. By mid-2025, the service will be available nationwide.

This new initiative aims to improve passport security while making international travel smoother for Indian citizens. With embedded Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chips, these e-passports store biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial features, encrypted for maximum security. The chip also helps passengers pass through e-gates at airports more quickly and safely, reducing wait times at immigration counters.

What is E-Passports?

E-passports are a type of passport that contain an embedded electronic chip, which holds biometric and personal data such as fingerprints, facial features, and other personal details. This chip uses radio frequency identification (RFID) technology to enable faster and more secure identification of the passport holder.

The main advantage of e-passports is enhanced security. The biometric data on the chip is encrypted, making it more difficult to forge or tamper with the passport. This added layer of security helps prevent identity theft and fraud, ensuring that travelers' personal information remains safe.

E-passports also make travel more efficient. They allow travellers to use automated e-gates at immigration, reducing long waiting times. Many countries, including India, the US, and Japan, have already adopted e-passports, and this technology is becoming the global standard for international travel.

Why E-Passports?

The e-passport is designed for faster processing and stronger protection against fraud. As international travel continues to increase, India’s move to e-passports addresses the growing congestion at airports, ensuring quicker and more secure travel for citizens.

Who is eligible for an E-Passport?

• Indian Citizens: Anyone who is eligible for a regular passport can also apply for an e-passport. There is no additional qualification required beyond the standard passport eligibility criteria.

• Minors: Children under the age of 18 can also apply for e-passports, provided they meet the necessary documentation requirements.

Benefits of E-Passports:

• Faster immigration processing

• Stronger identity protection

• Easier global travel with fewer delays

• Improved compatibility with international systems

Where it’s available

As of 2024, e-passports are being issued in cities including Chennai, Goa, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Nagpur, Surat, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, Jammu, Shimla, Amritsar, and Raipur.

How to Apply

1. Register on the Passport Seva Portal online.

2. Login and select "Apply for Fresh Passport" or "Re-issue of Passport."

3. Pay the fee and book an appointment.

4. Visit the Passport Seva Kendra or Regional Passport Office for verification.

5. Receive your e-passport at your registered address.

Existing passport holders won’t need to replace their passports until they expire. Once e-passports are available locally, any renewals will be upgraded automatically.

What happens if I lose my E-Passport?

Just like traditional passports, losing an e-passport can be concerning, but the process to replace it is simple:

1. Report the Loss: Immediately report the loss to the police and obtain a copy of the FIR (First Information Report).

2. Notify the Passport Seva Kendra: After reporting the loss to the police, inform the Passport Seva Kendra or Regional Passport Office.

3. Apply for a Replacement: Submit a request for a replacement passport with the required documents. The process will follow the same steps as applying for a new passport.

4. Lost Passport Declaration: You will be asked to fill out a declaration regarding the loss of the passport, after which the authorities will proceed with issuing a new one.

What if I Have an Old Passport?

If you already have a traditional passport and it’s still valid, you don’t need to worry about replacing it immediately. You can continue using it until it expires.

However, when you renew your passport, you will automatically be issued an e-passport (if available at your Passport Seva Kendra). This means that once the e-passport service is rolled out in your local area, you’ll be able to get a modern, secure e-passport.

(FAQs)

Q1: Can I apply for an e-passport online?
Yes, you can apply for an e-passport through the official Passport Seva Portal. The process is entirely online, except for the biometric verification at the Passport Seva Kendra.

Q2: Are there any extra charges for an e-passport?
No, there are no extra charges for applying for an e-passport. The fees are the same as a regular passport.

Q3: How long does it take to receive an e-passport?
Typically, it takes 7 to 21 days from submission to receive your e-passport, depending on your location and the volume of applications.

Q4: What if I lose my e-passport?
Report it to the police and Passport Seva Kendra immediately. You can apply for a replacement, but the process may take longer.

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