MEA Launches E-Passports: Here’s How It Will Transform the Way You Travel
India begins nationwide rollout of secure, chip-enabled e-passports.
In a major technological leap for Indian travellers, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has officially rolled out e-passports across the country. These new digital passports are equipped with embedded microchips and advanced security features that enhance identity protection and streamline verification processes at airports. The initiative marks a key milestone under the government’s Passport Seva Programme V2.0.
An e-passport is a combination of a traditional paper passport and an electronic chip embedded in its cover. According to the Passport Seva portal, each e-passport contains a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip and an antenna, storing personal particulars and biometric information of the holder. Passengers can identify the new passports by a gold-colored symbol printed on the front cover.
For current passport holders, there is no immediate need for concern. Existing passports will remain valid until their expiry date and will continue to be accepted both in India and abroad. However, once individuals apply for renewals or new passports, they will automatically receive the upgraded e-passport version. The MEA noted that the rollout is being done in phases, depending on the technical readiness of each regional passport office.
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The e-passport aims to significantly speed up immigration processes. It supports biometric verification at automated e-gates, reducing manual checks at select international airports. The Indian Security Press in Nashik will continue producing the passports, adhering to global standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO).
Beyond faster processing, e-passports represent a major step forward in digital security. The technology uses a Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) system—an internationally recognised framework that ensures the authenticity and integrity of the stored data. Each chip contains cryptographically signed information that prevents tampering, forgery, or cloning of the passport. This makes international travel safer, more efficient, and far less vulnerable to identity fraud.
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