What Is ePassport And How To Get ePassport?

ePassport costs the same as regular passport and offers benefits such as enhanced data protection and quick clearance at airports

With technology advancements, various documents are now available in digital formats. We also see integrated chip technology being used for various documents such as driving license, vehicle registration certificate, debit/credit cards, etc. This embedded chip technology has now been rolled out with passports, referred to as the ‘ePassport’. Let us see what is an ePassport, how to get an ePassport and what are the benefits of an ePassport.

What is ePassport?

An ePassport has the same look and feel as a standard passport. However, the difference is that an ePassport has an embedded chip, containing all the information about the individual. For example, an ePassport has biometric details such as fingerprint, photograph and iris scan stored in digital format in a secure manner. Demographics data such as name, birth date, passport number, etc., is also stored on the secure chip. The chip is embedded on the front cover, although it is not visible since it is covered with a layer of paper.

What are the benefits of an ePassport?

While it looks like a regular passport, the ePassport has multiple benefits. One of the important benefits is that an ePassport reduces the risk of duplication and impersonation. It may be possible to alter the photo and information given in a regular passport. But doing the same with an ePassport is extremely challenging. It would require advanced tools and equipment, something that can only be available with state-owned agencies. As such, ePassport is a great way to ensure identity protection.

Another purpose of ePassport is to achieve compliance with international standards. Globally, a number of countries are moving towards ePassports. This is as per the standards set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). If you frequently travel abroad, you can expect faster verification and e-gate access at international airports when using an ePassport. The embedded chip will transfer data wirelessly, which can then be matched with your live scan. Everything is done automatically, without the delay or errors associated with human involvement.

How to get an ePassport?

The process for applying for an ePassport is the same as that of a regular passport. You will get it automatically if it is available at your location. Even the fee for an ePassport is the same as that of a regular passport. You just have to visit the passport website – https://www.passportindia.gov.in/psp – and start the process of filling the passport application form.

ePassports are currently available at select locations. It includes Delhi, Bengaluru, Mumbai, Chandigarh, Kochi, Chennai, Lucknow, Ahmedabad, Hyderabad and Kolkata. New locations are being added continuously. This will be an ongoing process till all passport offices have the capability to generate ePassports. So, in the future, all passports will be ePassports by default. As of now, the availability is limited to select locations.