India Launches ePassport Facility Under Passport Seva 2.0

The Indian government has rolled out the much-anticipated ePassport facility as part of its ambitious Passport Seva Program (PSP) 2.0

Officially launched on April 1, 2024, the initiative is currently in its pilot phase, with ePassports being issued through selected passport offices across the country. This move aims to modernize and secure international travel for Indian citizens. 

An ePassport combines the traditional passport booklet with advanced digital features. It includes a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip and an antenna embedded within the back cover. This chip securely stores the passport holder’s biometric data and personal information, significantly enhancing security against forgery and identity theft. A small gold-colored ePassport symbol printed on the front cover distinguishes it from regular passports.

The new passports are backed by Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) technology, which ensures the authenticity and integrity of the data stored in the chip. Officials say this dual-layer system — featuring both physical and digital authentication — will make it far more difficult for fraudsters to replicate or tamper with the document.

According to the Ministry of External Affairs, ePassports are currently being issued in cities such as Chennai, Hyderabad, Bhubaneswar, Surat, Nagpur, Goa, Jammu, Shimla, Raipur, Amritsar, Jaipur, and Ranchi. Plans are in motion to expand the service to all passport offices in the coming months.

Importantly, existing passport holders are not required to upgrade to the new format. All previously issued passports will remain valid until their expiry date. As India embraces this next step in secure, tech-enabled travel documentation, the ePassport rollout marks a significant move towards digitization and global standards in border security and identity verification.