India is stepping into a new era of travel documents with the introduction of e-passports. At the 13th Passport Seva Divas, the External Affairs Minister shared some exciting news about how passport services are improving, making things easier and safer for everyone.
What is an e-Passport?
An e-passport is a modern version of the traditional passport. Here’s what makes it special:
- Contains a small electronic chip: This chip stores your personal details and biometric information, like your photo and fingerprints.
- Looks similar to regular passports: But you’ll notice a small gold symbol on the cover, showing it’s an e-passport.
- Safer and harder to fake: The chip makes it much more difficult for someone to forge or tamper with your passport.
Benefits of e-Passports
Switching to e-passports brings a lot of advantages for Indian travelers:
- Better security: Your information is stored digitally and is protected with advanced technology, making it hard for anyone to steal or misuse your identity.
- Faster immigration checks: Since your data can be quickly read by machines, you’ll spend less time waiting at airports.
- Reduces fraud: The chip helps prevent fake passports and other illegal activities.
- International recognition: Many countries already use e-passports, so Indian travelers will find it easier to travel abroad.
Applying for an e-Passport: Step-by-Step Guide
Getting your e-passport is simple. Just follow these steps:
- Visit the Official Passport Seva Website
- Go to the government’s passport portal online.
- Go to the government’s passport portal online.
- Register or Log In
- New users need to sign up.
- If you already have an account, just log in.
- New users need to sign up.
- Fill Out the Application
- Enter your personal and travel details carefully.
- Enter your personal and travel details carefully.
- Choose a Service Center
- Select the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
- Select the nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
- Pay the Fees
- Make the payment online for the type of passport you need.
- Make the payment online for the type of passport you need.
- Book an Appointment
- Pick a date and time for your visit to the service center.
- Pick a date and time for your visit to the service center.
- Visit the Center
- Go to the PSK or POPSK at your chosen time for biometric data collection and document verification.
- Go to the PSK or POPSK at your chosen time for biometric data collection and document verification.
Fees for e-Passports
The cost of an e-passport is the same as a regular passport. Here’s a quick look:
| Passport Type | Pages | Validity | Normal Fee | Tatkal Fee |
| Ordinary Passport | 36 | 10 years | ₹1,500 | ₹3,500 |
| Ordinary Passport | 60 | 10 years | ₹2,000 | ₹4,000 |
| Minor Passport | 36 | 5 years | ₹1,000 | ₹3,000 |
Important Points to Remember
- Existing passports are still valid: If you already have a passport, you don’t need to replace it right away. Your current passport will work until it expires.
- Gradual rollout: Not all passport offices can issue e-passports yet, but more centers will offer them soon.
- No extra charges: You won’t pay more for an e-passport compared to a regular one.
India’s move towards e-passports is a big step forward in making travel safer and more convenient for everyone. With better security, quicker processing, and international acceptance, e-passports are set to make your travel experience smoother than ever. If you’re applying for a new passport, check if your local center offers e-passports and enjoy the benefits of this new technology!
