e-Passport India: How to Apply & Download, Benefits, Check Status Online

The e-passport India is a biometric passport with an embedded electronic chip that stores the holder’s personal and biometric details securely. While an e-passport download is not possible, applicants can track status online via the Passport Seva Portal.. The e-passport India launch date (rollout) began in 2022 and, as of 2025, services are live across major Indian cities.

Key Highlights:

• Issuing Authority: Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India
• Technology: ICAO-compliant chip storing biometrics (fingerprints, iris, photograph)
• Application Mode: Through Passport Seva Portal (PSK/POPSK appointments)
• Download: Not available; e-passport is a physical booklet with a chip
• Benefits: Enhanced security, faster immigration clearance, e-gate access

What is e-Passport?

An e-passport is a passport embedded with an electronic microprocessor chip that stores biometric and personal information of the passport holder. This chip-based e-passport complies with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards. It offers enhanced security against tampering and identity theft.

How to Apply for e-Passport in India?

You may follow the steps given below to apply for an e-passport online through the official Passport Seva Portal:

• Visit the Passport Seva website.
• Register/Login and fill the e-passport application form.
• Select your Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK).
• Pay the applicable e-passport fees.
• Schedule an appointment.
• Visit the PSK/POPSK for biometric data collection and document verification.

Note: The e-passport rollout is currently limited to select cities. Eligible applicants will receive an e-passport automatically.

How to Download & Check e-Passport Status?

An e-passport download is not possible, as it is a physical document with an embedded chip. However, you can check the e-passport status online by following the steps given below:

• Go to Passport Seva Status Tracker.
• Enter your file number and date of birth.
• View real-time status updates of your passport application.

Key Features of e-Passport

India’s e-passport is equipped with modern technology that offers stronger protection and faster verification:

• Embedded chip on the front cover
• Stores biometric details (fingerprints, photograph, iris scan)
• Stores demographic data (name, date of birth, passport number, etc.)
• Contactless chip with secure access
• Compliant with ICAO standards
• Reduces risk of fake or duplicated passports

What Information is Stored on an e-Passport?

The e-chip in the passport securely stores:

• Passport holder’s photograph
• Fingerprints (biometric data)
• Demographic details: full name, gender, date of birth, address, etc.
• Digital signature of the issuing authority
• Unique Passport ID and Issue/Expiry dates

How does Biometric e-Passport Work?

When scanned at immigration checkpoints:

• The chip transmits encrypted data wirelessly.
• The system matches stored biometrics with the traveler’s live scan.
• Verification is faster and more secure, preventing impersonation or tampering.

Benefits & Uses of e-Passport

Here’s how the e-passport enhances your travel experience and strengthens identity protection:

• Enhanced security and data protection
• Faster immigration and e-gate access
• Reduces risk of identity fraud
• Globally accepted under ICAO guidelines
• Streamlined verification at international airports

List of Cities Issuing e-Passports in India

As of 2025, e-passports are being issued in select cities:

• Delhi
• Bengaluru
• Mumbai
• Chandigarh
• Kochi
• Chennai
• Lucknow
• Ahmedabad
• Hyderabad
• Kolkata
• Guwahati

e-Passport vs Regular Passport

Here’s how an e-passport is different from a regular passport in terms of features and security:

If you're applying for a new passport or renewal in eligible cities, you will likely receive an e-chip passport by default. With enhanced security, quicker immigration, and biometric data integration, biometric e-passports are making international travel easier and safer.

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