In a historic move, India has officially joined the list of 120 countries that issue biometric e-passport. E-passport in India have been introduced by the authorities, which will help in enhancing national security, smooth international travel, while keeping pace with the international standards of ICAO.
What is an E-passport?
Now, if you are wondering what an E-passport is or how an E-passport India will be implemented and work, then let’s find out.
An electronic passport is just like a conventional passport except that it is in a more advanced form, combining digital technology that will embed the personal and biometric details of the passport holder.
The passport will have an embedded Radio Frequency Identification(RFID) Chip in the booklet’s back cover. The chip will include information about:
- Demographic Information(Name, date of birth, passport number, etc)
- Face Recognition for Biometric Facial Data
- Fingerprints for identity verification.
How To Apply For E-Passport Launched in India?
The process of applying for E-passport launched in India is simple. Here is how you can apply:
- Register Online: Visit the Passport Seva Kendra website and register online.
- Log In/Sign Up: Log in or sign up to the dashboard using the credentials.
- Application Form: Fill up the application form, and apply for a fresh passport/Re-issue passport.
- Payment: You can make the payment online.
- Book the slot: Book your appointment by booking your slot at your local PSK or RPO.
- Visit: Visit the office with all the required documents that need to be verified and biometrically enrolled.
- Price: 30 pages ₹1500, AND 60 pages ₹2000.
Advantages of E-passport in India
- Improved Security: These biometric E-passport India will offer greater security than conventional passport. Using biometric information, including fingerprints, facial recognition ensures that the passport can be used by one person only.
- Smooth Immigration: It will streamline the process of immigration with identity verification without contact at the checkpoints. It minimises waiting time and enhances efficiency.
- Global Recognition: These biometric E-passport India adhere to ICAO, so they can be used at airports and border checkpoints, making International travel easier as a large number of countries accept biometric passport.
- Prevention of Identity Fraud: The security mechanisms in biometrics make it challenging to make changes or replicate passport, which prevents identity fraud.
- Convenience for travellers: These biometric passport make travelling easier by allowing users to travel through automated e-gates at the airports, reducing the need for manual inspection.
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