India Set to Launch Chip-Powered E-Passports by Mid-2025
India's Technological Advancement in E-Passports
India's advancements in technology are frequently highlighted on the global stage. In this context, the nation is gearing up to introduce its latest innovation: chip-enabled e-passports that will be accepted in various countries. The Indian government has been strategizing this initiative for a while, with an official launch anticipated between July and August 2025. The rollout of e-passports began in April 2024 as part of the enhanced Passport Seva Programme 2.0, with initial trials taking place in major cities such as Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Jammu, Panaji, Shimla, Raipur, Amritsar, Jaipur, Chennai, Hyderabad, Surat, and Ranchi. A comprehensive national rollout is expected by mid-2025.
Countries Utilizing Chip-Powered E-Passports
Over 120 nations, including the United States, France, Italy, Mexico, Canada, and Japan, have already implemented this technology. The introduction of biometric e-passports is set to become standard practice. This initiative aims to combat identity fraud and streamline the immigration process for Indian travelers. The passport upgrade initiative commenced in 2024 with pilot projects across several cities.
Reasons Behind the Transition
Following the COVID-19 pandemic, international travel surged, with more than 1.5 billion trips recorded in 2023. To manage this increasing volume securely and efficiently, numerous countries are adopting biometric technologies. Traditional machine-readable passports are more susceptible to forgery and data manipulation. In contrast, biometric e-passports provide enhanced security and protection, thereby minimizing identity fraud and enhancing the overall travel experience.
Features of Biometric E-Passports
The biometric e-passports will incorporate a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip and an antenna embedded in the back cover. This chip will store essential information such as facial images, fingerprints, name, date of birth, and passport number. The data will be safeguarded using international encryption standards, including Basic Access Control (BAC), Passive Authentication (PA), and Extended Access Control (EAC).
How to Apply for an E-Passport
The application process for the e-passport is designed to be straightforward. Individuals can apply via the Passport Seva Portal. Biometric data can be submitted at local Passport Seva Kendras or Post Office Passport Seva Kendras.
Advantages of the New System
These developments indicate that India is progressing towards a future devoid of paper documents. This future envisions travel that is entirely digital, contactless, and intelligent. By introducing chip-based biometric passports, India is enhancing travel safety and modernizing the process. This initiative is expected to bolster security and facilitate easier travel for many Indians in the years to come.