Archive · 12 Dec 2025
India Launches e-Passports Nationwide
India has started giving out special passports called e-Passports.
These passports have a tiny computer chip inside that holds your personal information.
This makes it harder for people to make fake passports and helps you go through airport checks more quickly.
You can apply for one online and then go to a passport office to get your picture and fingerprints taken.
Not everyone can get it right away, but soon it will be available all over India.
The chip uses special technology to keep your information safe.
You don't have to change your old passport right now, but when you get a new one, you can ask for this new kind.
India launched e-Passports nationwide on June 24, 2025, announced by External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar.
e-Passports contain an RFID chip with personal details and biometric information for enhanced security and easier immigration clearance.
Eligible Indian citizens can apply for e-Passports, initially available in selected Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) and Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs).
The application process involves online registration, appointment scheduling, and biometric data capture at the nearest PSK or POPSK.
Benefits include contactless authentication, prevention of forgery, and integration of all necessary information in a secure electronic chip.
- Who
- Indian citizens eligible for regular passports
- What
- Launch of e-Passports with RFID technology
- When
- June 24, 2025
- Where
- Nationwide, initially in selected PSKs and POPSKs
- Why
- To improve security, increase transparency, and facilitate international travel
- Launch Date
- June 24, 2025
- Announced By
- S. Jaishankar, External Affairs Minister
- Technology Used
- RFID Chip and antenna
- Eligibility
- All Indian citizens eligible for regular passports
- Initial Availability
- Selected Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) and Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) in prime cities
- Application Process
- Online application via Passport Seva Portal, appointment at PSK/POPSK, biometric data capture
- Benefits
- Enhanced security, easy authentication, prevention of forgery, contactless immigration clearance
- Technology Supporting Security
- Public Key Infrastructure (PKI)