Biometric E Passport India 2025 – Features, Cities, Benefits and How to Apply
Biometric E Passport India is finally here, and it’s changing the way Indian citizens travel across the world. Imagine clearing immigration in seconds, enjoying top-level data protection, and carrying a smarter, more secure passport — this is not a dream but a reality in 2025. With India officially rolling out biometric e-passports in 13 major cities, it’s time to understand what this means for you and how to get one.
Let’s dive into everything you need to know — from cities where it’s available to step-by-step application details.
Contents
What is a Biometric E Passport?
A biometric e-passport is just like your traditional passport but with a digital twist. It has a built-in electronic chip that stores your personal information, photograph, and even biometric data like fingerprints and facial scans. These smart passports are internationally accepted and meet the global standards of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
You’ll find a small gold symbol on the front cover of the e-passport — that’s your cue it’s chip-enabled.
Why is India Launching E-Passports?
India has joined over 100 countries in upgrading to e-passports. With international travel increasing and data theft becoming a bigger threat, these smart passports are designed to:
- Improve travel security
- Speed up immigration processes
- Prevent forgery and duplication
Launched on April 1, 2024, under the Passport Seva Programme Version 2.0, the initiative is part of India’s broader vision for secure and digital public services.
Key Benefits of Biometric E Passports
Here’s why the new e-passports are a game-changer:
- Enhanced Security
The embedded chip is digitally signed, making it nearly impossible to duplicate or forge. - Faster Immigration Clearance
The biometric chip helps immigration officials quickly verify your identity, reducing wait time. - Global Acceptance
Since they follow ICAO guidelines, Indian travelers can breeze through international borders more easily. - Data Protection
Protected by Public Key Infrastructure (PKI), your data is encrypted and safe from unauthorized access. - Long-Lasting and Reliable
The chip is designed to last for years and ensures smoother travel even for frequent flyers.
Where is the E Passport Available?
As of now, biometric e-passports are being issued in 13 Indian cities. These cities have been selected based on high demand and travel volume:
- Amritsar
- Bhubaneswar
- Chennai
- Delhi
- Goa
- Hyderabad
- Jammu
- Jaipur
- Nagpur
- Raipur
- Ranchi
- Shimla
- Surat
Expect more cities to be added in the coming months.
How to Apply for a Biometric E Passport in India (Step-by-Step Guide)
Getting your e-passport is easier than you think. Here’s a simple step-by-step process:
- Visit the official Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) website
Create an account or log in. - Choose the application type
Select Apply for Fresh Passport or Reissue Passport as per your need. - Fill in your details
Be sure to consent to biometric data collection in the form. - Pay the fee and book your appointment
Schedule a slot at your nearest PSK or Regional Passport Office (RPO). - Visit the PSK on your appointment day
You’ll provide fingerprints, have your photo taken, and undergo verification. - Submit required documents
Common documents include Aadhaar Card, PAN Card, and proof of address. - Track your status
Keep an eye on your application online and wait for delivery to your address.
FAQs About e-Passports in India
Q1: What is a Biometric E Passport?
A: It’s a passport that includes an electronic chip with your personal and biometric details. It can be identified by a small gold symbol on the front cover.
Q2: Is it safer than a regular passport?
A: Yes, it has digitally signed data and encryption, making it much harder to forge or misuse.
Q3: Do I need to replace my existing passport?
A: No. Your current passport remains valid until its expiry. Once your passport office is enabled for e-passport, you’ll automatically get one upon reissue or fresh application.
What’s Next in India’s E-Passport Journey?
The rollout of Biometric E Passport India is just the beginning. Over time, this technology will expand across the country, making smart, secure, and efficient travel accessible to all Indian citizens. So, if you plan to travel abroad soon, consider upgrading to this modern passport for a smoother experience.
Stay updated and start your application here: https://www.passportindia.gov.in/
For more updates on this topic, visit Bharat Details regularly.
