India Launches Biometric e-Passports in 12 Cities: Check Eligible Cities

India has exciting news for travelers! The country is rolling out biometric e-passports in 12 cities, enhancing security and efficiency. This digital upgrade promises faster immigration and global compatibility, making international travel more convenient.

Overview: India e-Passports

India is officially launching biometric e-passports as part of its Passport Seva Programme (PSP) Version 2.0. This initiative began on April 1, 2024, at select Regional Passport Offices (RPOs) across the nation. The e-passports feature RFID chips and advanced biometric data, revolutionizing how citizens travel internationally.

Cities Where e-Passports Are Available

The rollout started as a pilot program in 12 cities, blending major urban centers with key regional hubs. Indian citizens in these cities can now apply for their e-passports:

• Chennai
• Jaipur
• Hyderabad
• Nagpur
• Amritsar
• Goa
• Bhubaneswar
• Jammu
• Shimla
• Raipur
• Surat
• Ranchi

Understanding e-Passports and Their Advantages

An e-passport resembles a traditional passport but incorporates advanced technology. It contains:

• Digitally encrypted biometric data (fingerprints, iris scans)
• A digitized photograph
• Key demographic information (name, date of birth, passport number)

These details are securely stored on an RFID chip, making it nearly impossible to forge or tamper with the passport. Furthermore, India’s e-passports meet the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) standards, ensuring global recognition at automated immigration points.

Key Benefits for Travelers

The biometric e-passports offer numerous advantages for Indian citizens:

• Quicker immigration clearance at international airports
• Automated identity verification to minimize manual errors
• Enhanced protection against passport fraud or misuse
• Compatibility with smart border systems worldwide
• Shorter waiting times at immigration counters
• For frequent travelers, these enhancements provide a smoother airport experience and greater peace of mind.

India’s Vision for Digital Transformation

This e-passport initiative is a crucial part of India’s broader digital transformation strategy. The Ministry of External Affairs aims to align India with international best practices in travel documentation. The full-scale rollout will continue throughout 2025, gradually expanding to Tier-II and Tier-III cities. Upgrades to passport offices and specialized staff training are underway to ensure a successful implementation.

A senior official from the Ministry stated, “We are focusing on infrastructure and training in pilot cities to ensure a seamless rollout. Our goal is to enhance security and traveler convenience.”

How to Apply for an e-Passport

Travelers in the pilot cities can select the e-passport option when applying for a new passport or renewal. The application process is similar to that of traditional passports but includes biometric data collection. Applicants should:

• Visit the Passport Seva Portal.
• Choose their RPO and appointment time.
• Complete biometric and document verification at the passport office.
• Opt for the e-passport during the application process.

Final Thoughts

India’s introduction of e-passports represents a significant advancement in travel security and digital innovation. With streamlined immigration processes and global acceptance, e-passports are poised to transform how Indian citizens travel abroad.

As the rollout expands, now is the ideal time for travelers in pilot cities to upgrade to this high-tech passport and enjoy its numerous benefits. Embrace the future of travel with India’s biometric e-passports!