E-Passport: Meaning, Features, Benefits and Application Process

• Written by Yashita Sinha

  Reviewed by Akhil Pillai

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Apart from your willingness to travel the world, the second most important thing you need for international travel is your passport. This crucial document contains everything from your identity to your educational background.

However, the rise in fraudulent passports has led to security concerns, as these fake documents open doors for suspicious individuals to enter countries, posing a threat to national security. To overcome this, governments worldwide have adopted e-passports, ensuring the electronic verification of traveller details and preventing unauthorized entry.

What is an E-passport?

Also known as a biometric passport, e passport is a traditional passport that has an installed electronic microprocessor chip. This chip stores the traditional details of the passport holder- name, passport number date of birth and biometric information such as facial recognition data and fingerprints.

What are the Features of an E-passport?

Here are the top features of an E-passport:

• 64 KB Storage: With 64 KB of storage in the microprocessor chip, all of your personal and biometric data is stored, making your passport more secure than the traditional one.
• Biometric Data: The chips contain your fingerprints, iris scan and a coloured photograph for identification.
• Automatic Scanning: The chip is equipped with an antenna, allowing automatic scanning of the passport at immigration points, eliminating the process of waiting in long queues.
• Digital Signature: The microprocessor chip of your E-passport carries a unique digital signature that confirms your identity and reduces the risk of forgery.
• Advanced Security: E-passports include advanced security features such as watermarks, holographic images that change colour under the light, and much more. These features prevent passport tampering and identity theft.

How does an E-passport Work?

When you present an E-passport at the security gate, the chip gets scanned wirelessly using RFID technology. Then, the biometric data from the chip is compared with your actual face using facial recognition cameras. Lastly, your digital signature is verified and if everything matches, you’re cleared through.

What are the Benefits of an E-passport?

Here are the top benefits that an E-passport offers

• Better Security: Since your personal information and biometric data are stored in the chip and are verified at the time of security check, the chances of forgery become negligible. This ensures better security than traditional passports.
• Quicker Travel: The chip embedded in your passport allows automatic scanning at security checkpoints, eliminating the tedious formality of waiting in longer queues.
• Global Compliance: E passports strictly adhere to the international standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation(ICAO). This ensures that it will be recognised and trusted in most countries, simplifying travel and reducing the chances of immigration delays.
• Durability: Designed using high-quality materials and advanced printing techniques, E passports are resistant to wear and tear. The embedded chip is also built to withstand heat and moisture, ensuring the passport remains functional throughout its 10-year lifespan.

Difference between an E-passport and a Regular passport

The below table shows the difference between an e-passport and a regular passport based on different features:

How to Apply for an E-passport?

There’s no rocket science behind the process of applying for an E-passport. You need to follow the simple steps mentioned below:

Visit the Passport Seva Online Portal

Go to the official website at passportindia.gov.in.

Register an Account

On the homepage, click on the "Register Now" link. Now, fill in the details required to create a new account.

Log In

After registering, login with your new credentials.

Apply for the Passport

On the dashboard, click on ‘apply for a fresh passport’. In case you already have a passport, click on ‘re-issue of passport’.

Fill the Application Form

Complete the online application form by filling in accurate and personal details.

Pay and Schedule Appointment

After submitting the form, click on ‘pay and schedule appointment’.

Note: Choose a convenient time and date for your appointment at the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO).

Receive Appointment Confirmation

You’ll receive an SMS on your registered mobile number with your appointment details.

Attend the Appointment

On the scheduled date, visit the Passport Seva Kendra or Regional Passport Office with the original documents required for verification.

Note: These documents usually include a birth certificate, address proof and proof of nationality.

Biometric Data Collection

During your visit, your fingerprints, photograph and signature will be captured for the E-passport.

Passport Issuance

After successful document verification, your new e-passport will be processed and dispatched to your registered address.

Documents Required to Apply for an E-passport

Below is the list of documents required to apply for an E-passport:

• Copy of the first and last pages of your current passport
• Address proof: Aaadhar card, bank passbook and utility bills
• Age proof: Birth certificate, PAN Card, Aaadhar card and Voter ID

>>Read More: How to Claim for Passport Cover under the Travel Insurance Easily?

Summing it Up!

An e-passport is a convenient and hassle-free way to travel across the world. Unlike traditional passports that come with the risk of forgery and identity theft, e-passports are highly secure and ensure solid protection of your data using encryption. Therefore, before planning your next trip abroad, don’t forget to apply for an e-passport as it will make your journey easier.

Disclaimer: Plan features, benefits, coverage, and claims underwriting are subject to policy terms and conditions. Kindly refer to the brochure, sales prospectus, and policy documents carefully.