Abishek D Praphullalumar
India has officially started issuing chip-based e-passports to enhance security and modernize travel documentation. Launched under the Passport Seva Programme on April 1, 2024, these passports feature an RFID chip and biometric encryption embedded into the passport booklet, marked by a gold symbol beneath the cover.
The e-passport securely stores personal details, biometric data, and passport information, protected by international security protocols like Basic Access Control (BAC), Passive Authentication (PA), and Extended Access Control (EAC). This technology ensures faster, tamper-resistant immigration processes and aligns India with over 120 countries already using e-passports.
Currently, 12 regional Passport Offices including those in Nagpur, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Jaipur are authorized to issue e-passports. A nationwide rollout is expected in the coming months.
Existing passports remain valid until expiry, and applying for an e-passport follows the same process via the Passport Seva Portal and a visit to a nearby Passport Seva Kendra for biometric verification.
