External Affairs Minister Subrahmanyam Jaishankar recently announced nationwide rollout of e-Passports. He called the e-Passport initiative a major milestone, easing travel and expediting immigration clearances with its contactless chip-based data reading. This new e-Passport will help streamline verification and aligns with international immigration processing.
What is an e-passport?
For all those that are confused, an e-passport is nothing but a passport that contains an electronic chip. E-passports are distinguishable by a small gold chip symbol on the cover. This chip will securely store biometric data like digital photograph, personal information, and optional fingerprints or iris scans. These new digital passports are more secure as they make it harder for cybercriminals to do forgery or tampering. They also enable faster immigration and comply with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards.
How to apply for an e-passport:
Head to the official Passport Seva website.
Create an account if you are a new user or just login with your existing information.
Select ‘Apply for Fresh Passport’ or ‘Re-issue of Passport’ and fill the form with accurate information.
Choose the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport and select your convenient appointment date and time.
Users must pay the passport appointment fee. Payment options include netbanking, UPI, credit/debit card.
Visit the centre with all the required documents and give your biometrics and photograph as well.
The PSK asks users to get proof of address, proof of date of birth, identity proof, and existing passport. In order to save time, ensure that all the information across documents is matching. Arrive at the centre on time, and bring originals and photocopies along with you to save time.
