India has recently introduced biometric e-passports, aligning with more than 120 nations in a move to modernise international travel. This landmark initiative aims to enhance border security, reduce identity fraud, and streamline immigration procedures for Indian citizens.
What is an E-Passport?
An e-passport is a traditional passport embedded with an electronic RFID chip that securely stores personal and biometric data, including fingerprints and facial recognition details. A gold symbol on the cover identifies it as an electronic passport. Advanced security features such as Basic Access Control (BAC) and Extended Access Control (EAC) ensure encrypted protection of sensitive data.
Rollout Timeline
The biometric e-passport rollout began in April 2024 under the Passport Seva Programme 2.0. Pilot implementations were carried out in key cities like Nagpur and Chennai. By March 2025, full-scale issuance had commenced in Tamil Nadu, with over 20,700 e-passports issued by March 22.
Benefits of E-Passports
Biometric e-passports are the global standard for secure and efficient travel. They enable contactless verification at immigration checkpoints, significantly reducing wait times and minimising manual inspections. This leads to a faster, smoother travel experience.