What data does the e-passport store?

Your name, date of birth, biometric data (like face and fingerprint), passport number, and signature are stored in an encrypted form on the RFID chip.

Is the e-passport mandatory for all?

Not yet. Regular passports will remain valid until expiry. But all new or reissued passports are being gradually replaced with e-passports.

Can I track my e-passport application?

Yes, via the Passport Seva portal or mPassport Seva app.

India’s e-Passport Revolution: Enhanced Security, Global Standards & H

🛂 What Is an e-Passport?

An e-passport is a digitally enhanced version of the traditional passport, embedded with an electronic microchip that securely stores the passport holder's biometric data. This digital upgrade offers enhanced security, faster immigration checks, and is aligned with global ICAO standards.

🔐 Key Features of India's e-Passport

Feature	Description
RFID Chip	Stores your personal and biometric details securely.
Biometric Authentication	Ensures foolproof identity verification at borders.
Digitally Signed Data	Prevents data tampering or cloning.
Machine-Readable	Scannable at e-gates in international airports.
Global Compatibility	Complies with ICAO e-passport standards used by 100+ countries.

🌍 How India Compares Globally

India's e-passport aligns it with countries like:

USA & UK – Offering biometric-based passport authentication.
Germany & Singapore – Both have had e-passports with RFID since early 2010s.
Japan – Uses advanced facial recognition in airport e-gates.

India is now joining the league of top nations with secure, machine-readable passports, boosting global travel efficiency for Indian citizens.

🏭 Where Are India’s e-Passports Made?

The India Security Press in Nashik is the primary facility responsible for manufacturing these new e-passports. According to reports, Bengaluru and Delhi are the first cities where the e-passport rollout began.

Production involves:

Embedded chips from certified global vendors
Tamper-proof lamination and digital signature implementation
ICAO-compliant personalization process

💡 Benefits of e-Passport for Indian Citizens

Faster immigration & check-in at global airports
Greater security with encrypted, tamper-proof data
Global acceptance across 100+ countries
Reduced risk of fraud or identity theft
Digital upgrade towards Smart Governance

📝 How to Apply for an e-Passport in India

✅ Step-by-Step Guide

Visit: passportindia.gov.in
Login/Register for a new passport application.
Choose “Fresh Passport” or “Reissue” under the service menu.
At the payment stage, select your nearest PSK (Passport Seva Kendra).
On successful verification and police clearance, eligible applicants will automatically receive an e-passport instead of a traditional one.

Note: There's no separate application for e-passports yet—it’s issued as part of the standard passport issuance process.

📅 e-Passport Rollout Timeline

Pilot Phase: Launched in 2022 for diplomats and officials
Mass Rollout: Began in mid-2023 and expanding through 2025
Full Coverage: Expected to include all states by end of 2025

🧠 Final Verdict

India's e-passport is a significant leap toward digital governance and travel security. It boosts convenience, ensures global compatibility, and represents India's push to modernize citizen services in the digital age. If you're applying for a passport in 2025, you're likely to be among the early beneficiaries of this global-class document.

India’s e-Passport Revolution: Enhanced Security, Global Standards & How to Apply