India has launched biometric e-passports for its citizens, aligning with global standards to enhance security and streamline international travel. With embedded RFID chips, these passports store personal and biometric data, simplifying immigration processes and preventing fraud. e-passport applications can be made online or at designated centers, and a nationwide rollout is set for mid-2025.
India has taken a significant leap forward by officially launching biometric e-passports, aligning with over 120 countries like the U.S., Canada, and Japan. This move, celebrated as a boon for national security and smoother travel, meets the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, making it easier for citizens to travel internationally.
So, what exactly is an e-passport? It’s basically a high-tech upgrade from the old-school passport, complete with a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip embedded within the back cover. This nifty chip keeps track of important personal and biometric data, such as the holder’s name, date of birth, and passport number, alongside for facial recognition and fingerprints, ensuring you are who you say you are. Plus, there’s a small gold rectangle on the cover, signaling its electronic capabilities.
Applying for these e-passports is straightforward for Indian citizens. They can either do it online via the Passport Seva Online Portal or visit a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) in person. The process starts with registering online, logging into their dashboard, and selecting to apply for a fresh passport or for a re-issue. Then, they simply pay online, book an appointment, and show up with the required documents for verification and biometric enrolment. After that, it’s possible to track the application status online.
E-passports come loaded with a bunch of security features to keep your data safe and ensure that they can be used internationally without a hitch. Techniques like Basic Access Control (BAC) limit scanning access to approved devices, while Passive Authentication (PA) checks that stored data hasn’t been tampered with. Extended Access Control (EAC) provides an extra layer of security for your biometric data. These advanced security protocols are in line with ICAO guidelines, ensuring that e-passports work seamlessly across borders.
Moreover, e-passports are designed to speed up immigration processes significantly. This means shorter wait times, less human intervention, and real-time biometric matching at immigration checkpoints. Countries such as Singapore and the UAE have already adopted similar systems, setting a proactive standard for efficiency.
All biometric e-passports will be manufactured at the India Security Press in Nashik and overseen by the Ministry of Finance. In Tamil Nadu, the distribution of e-passports commenced at the Regional Passport Office in Chennai on March 3, 2025. Impressively, over 20,700 e-passports were handed out in just three weeks according to the Ministry of External Affairs, with a full nationwide rollout anticipated by mid-2025.
The advantages of e-passports are pretty compelling: they bolster biometric security, which helps keep fraud and identity theft at bay through facial recognition and fingerprint scanning. They’ll also make immigration faster with contactless verification. Additionally, they comply with global ICAO standards, helping with worldwide acceptance. Enhanced encryption works against tampering while facilitating better border control, tracking, and even faster data updates for renewals and changes. All of this points toward a future that embraces paperless, tech-savvy travel.
In summary, India’s rollout of biometric e-passports signals a major advancement in travel security and efficiency. With their RFID technology, enhanced security measures, and streamlined application processes, e-passports provide a modern and secure way for Indian citizens to travel internationally, aligning with global standards and improving border controls significantly. The anticipated widespread availability by mid-2025 promises further ease and accessibility for travelers.
Original Source: www.dtnext.in
