tl;dr
India has launched biometric e-passports featuring embedded RFID chips that store personal and biometric data to enhance border security, reduce identity theft, and speed up immigration. This initiative, part of the Passport Seva Programme 2.0, aligns with International Civil Aviation Organization s...
India has launched chip-enabled biometric e-passports nationwide by mid-2025, marking a significant upgrade in border security and travel efficiency. These new passports embed RFID chips that securely store personal and biometric data, including digital facial images and fingerprints, facilitating contactless identity verification and speeding up immigration processes.
Part of the Passport Seva Programme 2.0, the initiative aligns with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards and incorporates advanced encryption techniques such as Basic Access Control (BAC) and Public Key Infrastructure (PKI). The rollout began in April 2024 with pilot testing in select cities and is planned to cover the entire country by mid-2025.
Manufactured domestically at the India Security Press in Nashik, these e-passports support India’s Make in India mission while ensuring strong data privacy protections. Citizens can apply through the Passport Seva Portal and collect biometric information in person at designated centers.
Beyond enhancing security and reducing the risk of identity theft, these e-passports are compatible with automated e-gates, drastically reducing processing times at immigration checkpoints. Existing passports remain valid until expiry, and the transition to e-passports is staged to ensure smooth adoption nationwide.
Looking forward, India plans to integrate mobile passport wallets, Aadhaar and DigiLocker linkage, blockchain verification, and embedded visa data into future versions. This forward-thinking digital transformation aims at creating a smarter, paperless, and contact-free travel ecosystem.
The adoption of biometric e-passports also reflects global trends, as international travel bounces back to near pre-pandemic levels. With the rise in traveler volume worldwide, many countries are turning to biometric solutions for robust and secure identity management.