E-Passport India: Apply Now, Fees, Benefits & Security

India’s passport system is undergoing a digital transformation. The newly launched e-passport introduces advanced biometric technology and chip-based security to make international travel faster, safer, and more aligned with global standards. If you’re planning to apply for a passport or renew an existing one, understanding the e-passport India system is essential. This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know about eligibility, application process, fees, processing timelines, and the cutting-edge security features that protect your identity.

Key Takeaways

✓ Eligibility: Any Indian citizen eligible for a regular passport can apply for an e-passport at select Passport Seva Kendras nationwide.

✓ Application Fee: ₹1,500 for 36-page booklet, ₹2,000 for 60-page booklet (normal processing); Tatkal services available at additional cost.

✓ Processing Time: 30–45 days for normal applications (including police verification); 1–3 working days for Tatkal (expedited) service.

✓ Key Benefit: RFID chip embedded with biometric data and digital signatures eliminate passport forgery and enable faster automated immigration processing in 120+ countries.

✓ Privacy Feature: Residential addresses no longer printed on passports; stored digitally and accessible only to authorized officials.

What is an E-Passport? Understanding the Technology

An e-passport is an advanced version of the traditional Indian passport that combines paper documentation with embedded electronic technology. Unlike a regular passport, which stores information only in printed form, an e-passport contains a small Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip embedded in the back cover. This chip stores your personal information and biometric data (facial features, fingerprints, and iris scans) in encrypted digital format.

The e-passport represents India’s alignment with global travel security standards. Since April 1, 2024, India has been rolling out e-passports through its Passport Seva Programme (PSP) Version 2.0. Presently, the e-passport facility is available at major Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) and Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) across metro cities including Bangalore, Mumbai, Delhi, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Jaipur. By the end of 2025, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) announced nationwide availability of e-passport services.

The visual appearance differs minimally from regular passports. The distinguishing feature is a small gold-colored symbol printed below the front cover, indicating the presence of the embedded RFID chip and antenna. The technology is compliant with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, ensuring seamless acceptance at border controls and automated e-gates across more than 120 countries worldwide.

[Image Alt Attribute: E-passport India with embedded RFID chip, showing gold symbol indicator below front cover, demonstrating advanced biometric passport technology for secure international travel]

Who Can Apply for an E-Passport in India?

Eligibility criteria for e-passport India remain the same as regular passports. Any Indian citizen who is eligible for a standard passport is automatically eligible to apply for an e-passport. This includes:

• Indian citizens applying for a fresh (new) passport: If you’ve never held a passport or your previous passport has expired beyond the renewal window, you can apply for a fresh e-passport.
• Citizens renewing existing passports: When your current passport approaches expiration, you can renew it and receive the upgraded e-passport variant.
• Minors: Children under 18 years old are eligible for e-passports with reduced validity periods. Minors under 15 receive a 5-year validity passport, while those aged 15–18 receive a 10-year validity passport.
• Non-Resident Indians (NRIs): NRIs can apply for e-passports through Indian missions and embassies abroad where e-passport services are enabled.
• Senior citizens (age 60+): Seniors are eligible and receive a 10% discount on fresh passport applications.

Important note: Eligibility does not require any specific income, employment status, or educational qualification. The primary requirement is Indian citizenship and a valid proof of identity and residence.

Step-by-Step: How to Apply for E-Passport India

The e-passport application process mirrors the regular passport application procedure. Below is the detailed breakdown:

Step 1: Access the Passport Seva Portal

Begin by visiting the official Passport Seva portal at https://services1.passportindia.gov.in/psp. This is the authorized government platform for all passport applications in India.

Step 2: Register or Log In to Your Account

• New users: Click on “Register” and create an account using your email address and mobile number. You’ll receive an OTP (One-Time Password) for verification. Complete the registration by setting a secure password.
• Existing users: Log in directly using your registered credentials. The portal remembers your previous applications if you’ve applied before.

Step 3: Fill Out the Online E-Passport Application Form

1. Select the application type: “Apply for Fresh Passport” or “Reissue Passport” (for renewals).
2. Complete all mandatory fields carefully, including:
   • Full name (as per birth certificate or official documents)
   • Date of birth
   • Nationality and address
   • Contact details
   • Occupation and employer information (if applicable)
3. Upload required documents in digital format (scanned copies).
4. Choose the e-passport variant: 36-page or 60-page booklet based on your travel frequency.
5. Review all information for accuracy before submission.

Step 4: Pay the E-Passport Application Fee Online

Once the form is completed, proceed to the payment gateway. The fees are:

• 36-page adult passport (normal): ₹1,500
• 60-page adult passport (normal): ₹2,000
• Additional PSK fee: ₹500
• Police verification charges: Vary by state (typically ₹100–₹300)

Payment methods accepted: Credit card, debit card, net banking, and UPI. An online confirmation and receipt will be generated immediately.

For Tatkal (expedited) applicants, add ₹2,000 to the normal fee for processing within 1–3 working days.

Step 5: Schedule Your PSK/POPSK Appointment

After payment, you’ll be directed to the appointment booking section. Here’s what to do:

1. Select your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) from the dropdown list.
2. Check available appointment dates and time slots—these update dynamically based on center capacity.
3. Select a convenient date and time that allows you sufficient notice to gather documents.
4. Confirm your appointment. An SMS and email confirmation will be sent to your registered mobile and email address.

Step 6: Attend Your Appointment for Biometric Capture and Document Verification

On your scheduled appointment date, visit the PSK/POPSK with all original documents and one set of photocopies. Here’s what happens:

• Document verification: Officials will verify your identity proof, address proof, and other supporting documents.
• Biometric data capture: A photograph will be taken using the official camera, and your fingerprints will be scanned digitally (all 10 fingers).
• Processing time at PSK: The appointment typically takes 20–30 minutes.
• Acknowledgment receipt: You’ll receive an Application Reference Number (ARN) for tracking your application.

Step 7: Wait for Police Verification (Normal Applications)

For normal applications, police verification is initiated after your PSK visit. This involves:

• A police constable visiting your registered address to verify your identity and residence.
• This verification typically takes 5–14 days, depending on your location and state efficiency (metro cities are faster due to digitized systems like mPassport Police App).

For Tatkal applicants: Police verification happens after your passport is issued and delivered, which is why Tatkal applications are processed faster initially.

Step 8: Track Your Application and Receive Delivery

After biometric submission and police verification:

1. Printing & dispatch: Your e-passport will be printed and dispatched to your registered address via India Post Speed Post (3–5 working days).
2. Tracking: You’ll receive an SMS/email with a tracking number to monitor delivery status.
3. Delivery: Expect delivery within 2–4 working days depending on your location. Metro cities and Tier-1 cities typically receive passports faster.

Total timeline:

• Normal processing: 30–45 working days from appointment date
• Tatkal processing: 1–3 working days plus police verification post-issuance

[Image Alt Attribute: Step-by-step visual flowchart of e-passport India application process, showing portal login, form filling, payment, appointment booking, biometric capture, and delivery stages]

Documents Required for E-Passport Application

Ensure you carry all original documents along with self-attested photocopies to your PSK appointment:

Proof of Identity (Choose one):

• Aadhaar card
• PAN (Permanent Account Number) card
• Voter ID
• Driving license
• Government-issued ID

Proof of Address (Choose one):

• Utility bill (electricity, water, gas—not older than 3 months)
• Bank statement or passbook (not older than 3 months)
• Rental agreement with landlord’s sign-off
• Recent property tax receipt
• Telephone bill

Additional Documents:

• For fresh passport: Birth certificate (certified copy) or school leaving certificate showing date of birth.
• For reissue/renewal: Your existing passport (original) along with self-attested photocopies of the first and last pages.
• For minors: Birth certificate, parents’ passport copies, and a declaration from parents/guardians.
• For government/PSU employees: No Objection Certificate (NOC) or Identity Certificate for faster verification.
• For divorced/widowed applicants: Divorce decree or death certificate of spouse.

Pro tip: Have all documents ready in a folder before your appointment. Even small discrepancies can delay processing. Use the PSK’s document checklist from the portal to verify everything beforehand.

E-Passport Application Fee Breakdown

Understanding the complete fee structure helps you budget accurately. Below is the detailed breakdown:

Passport Type	Booklet Pages	Normal Fee	Tatkal Fee (+ Additional)	Validity
Fresh Adult	36	₹1,500	₹3,500 (₹1,500 + ₹2,000)	10 years
Fresh Adult	60	₹2,000	₹4,000 (₹2,000 + ₹2,000)	10 years
Minor (under 15)	36	₹1,000	₹3,000 (₹1,000 + ₹2,000)	5 years
Minor (15–18)	36	₹1,500	₹3,500 (₹1,500 + ₹2,000)	10 years
Reissue/Renewal (Adult)	36	₹1,500	₹3,500	10 years
Reissue/Renewal (Adult)	60	₹2,000	₹4,000	10 years

Additional Charges:

• PSK Service Charge: ₹500 (applicable to all applications, including Tatkal)
• Police Verification Charge: ₹100–₹300 (varies by state; mandatory)
• Online Payment Gateway Charge: Credit/debit card processing may incur 1–2% additional charge
• 10% Discount: Available for minors under 8 and senior citizens (60+) on fresh applications only

Example calculation:
For an adult applying for a 36-page passport under normal processing: ₹1,500 (basic) + ₹500 (PSK fee) + ₹200 (police verification estimate) = ₹2,200 total

Does fee include the e-passport upgrade? Yes. The e-passport is now the default passport variant issued in India. There is no separate charge for the chip technology; the fee structure remains identical to regular passports.

E-Passport Processing Time: How Long Will You Wait?

Processing time depends on the application type and your location. Here’s what to expect:

Normal Passport Processing Timeline

Total duration: 30–45 working days (including police verification)

Breakdown:

1. PSK appointment & document verification: 20–30 minutes (same day)
2. Police verification: 5–14 days (faster in metro cities with digital mPassport Police App; slower in tier-2 and rural areas)
3. Printing & dispatch: 3–5 working days after police clearance
4. Delivery via India Post: 2–4 working days

Factors affecting speed:

• Metro cities (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai): Typically 15–25 working days due to efficient PSKs and digitized police verification
• Tier-2 cities: 25–35 working days
• Tier-3 and rural areas: 35–45 working days

Tatkal (Expedited) Processing Timeline

Total duration: 1–3 working days (after police verification, which happens post-delivery)

Breakdown:

1. PSK appointment: Same day or next day (Tatkal slots available daily)
2. Passport printing: 1–2 working days
3. Delivery: 1–2 working days
4. Police verification: Happens after you receive the passport; typically 10–15 days

Tatkal is ideal if: You need a passport within days (emergency travel, sudden opportunity, urgent visa appointment).

Note: Existing passports remain valid until expiration. There is no mandatory requirement to switch to an e-passport immediately; you can renew during your regular renewal window.

E-Passport Features vs. Regular Passport: Pros & Cons Comparison

Feature	E-Passport (Biometric)	Regular Passport	Advantage
Technology	RFID chip + paper	Paper only	E-passport stores biometric data digitally; harder to forge
Biometric Data Storage	Fingerprints, facial features, iris scans (encrypted)	None	Enhanced identity verification at borders
Security Encryption	BAC, PA, EAC, PKI (4-layer security)	None	Near-impossible to duplicate or tamper with
Immigration Speed	Automated e-gates (seconds)	Manual verification (minutes)	Reduces waiting times at airports
Forgery Risk	Extremely low (digital signatures prevent counterfeiting)	Moderate (physical forgery possible)	Stronger protection against identity theft
Global Acceptance	120+ countries with e-gate infrastructure	All countries (traditional)	E-passports enable faster processing where available
Privacy	Address stored digitally; not printed	Address printed on last page	Reduces data misuse risk; addresses available only to authorized officials
Durability	Enhanced (chip-protected booklet)	Standard	E-passport resists wear from frequent scanning
Processing Fees	Same (₹1,500–₹2,000)	Same (₹1,500–₹2,000)	No premium for advanced security
Validity Period	10 years (adults); 5 years (minors)	10 years (adults); 5 years (minors)	Equal validity
Applicability	Automatic for fresh applications at enabled centers	Phased out for new applications	Default choice in metro areas; traditional passports remain valid until expiry

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Key Security Features & Technology Behind E-Passport India

The e-passport’s advanced security makes it virtually impossible to forge or duplicate. Understanding these features gives you confidence in your travel document’s integrity.

RFID Chip & Antenna Technology

The heart of the e-passport is a Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip embedded in the back cover. This chip communicates wirelessly with immigration scanning devices at borders and airport e-gates. The chip stores:

• Your full name, date of birth, passport number
• Biometric data: high-resolution photograph, all 10 fingerprints, iris scans
• Digital signature (unique cryptographic marker)
• Nationality and passport validity dates

The chip operates at 13.56 MHz frequency and communicates only when scanned by authorized immigration equipment at borders. The read range is less than 10 centimeters, preventing remote unauthorized access.

Four-Layer Encryption Security Protocol

India’s e-passport uses four layers of encryption, each designed to prevent specific types of attacks:

1. Basic Access Control (BAC):

• Requires the machine-readable zone (MRZ)—the printed numbers at the bottom of your passport data page—to unlock the chip.
• Prevents unauthorized readers from scanning the chip while it’s in your pocket or bag.
• Makes casual “skimming” (clandestine chip reading) impossible without the physical passport.

2. Passive Authentication (PA):

• Uses cryptographic hashing to ensure the data stored on the chip matches the printed information.
• Automatically detects any tampering or alteration to the physical passport or chip data.
• Immigration systems instantly flag mismatches as fraudulent documents.

3. Extended Access Control (EAC):

• Adds a fifth-level security layer specifically protecting biometric data (fingerprints and iris scans).
• Requires additional authorization beyond basic access; even government agencies need special credentials.
• Prevents misuse of your biometric data by unauthorized parties.

4. Public Key Infrastructure (PKI):

• Uses digital signatures to authenticate that the passport was issued by the Indian government.
• Employs asymmetric encryption (different keys for encoding and decoding), making forgery mathematically impossible.
• Every immigration system globally can verify the PKI signature, confirming document authenticity in milliseconds.

Additional Security Physical Features

Beyond the digital RFIF chip, the e-passport booklet includes physical security elements:

• Metallic mesh embedded in the cover: Blocks unauthorized radio frequency scanning; the chip must be accessed by opening the passport.
• Holographic elements and security threads: Prevent physical document counterfeiting.
• Microprinting and relief tints: Create raised tactile features detectable by touch, visible only under magnification.
• Computer-readable barcode: Replaces the printed residential address (privacy enhancement), enabling faster automated scanning at borders.

Why This Encryption Cannot Be Broken

The security architecture makes cloning, skimming, and forgery economically unfeasible:

• Cloning: A fake RFIF chip would require the original PKI private key (mathematically impossible to derive from public data). Lab cloning has been documented in research scenarios, but real-world attacks are negligible because immigration systems use all four security layers simultaneously.
• Skimming: BAC and metallic mesh prevent casual chip reading. Even with sophisticated equipment, extracting unencrypted data is impossible.
• Physical forgery: Digital signatures invalidate counterfeit documents instantly when scanned.
• Tampering detection: Any modification to the chip or passport triggers signature mismatch, automatically flagging the document as fraudulent.

Top Benefits of E-Passport India for Travelers

1. Faster Immigration & Automated Processing

The most immediate benefit travelers experience is reduced waiting time at borders and airports. The RFID chip enables:

• Automated e-gates: At airports in India and over 120 countries, e-passport holders can use self-service e-gates. The chip is scanned, your facial features are verified against the stored photograph, and you pass through in seconds—without manual inspection.
• Contactless document verification: Immigration officers can read your biometric data wirelessly, reducing physical contact and cross-contamination risks (especially relevant post-pandemic).
• Reduced queues: With automated processing, immigration lanes move faster, reducing congestion during peak travel periods.

2. Enhanced Security Against Forgery & Fraud

The embedded biometric data and digital encryption make the e-passport:

• Nearly impossible to counterfeit: The PKI signature requires the Indian government’s private encryption key, which is mathematically impossible to steal or replicate.
• Tamper-evident: Any physical or digital alteration is immediately detected when the passport is scanned, flagging the document as fraudulent.
• Protected against identity theft: Biometric data (fingerprints, iris scans) cannot be forged or transferred to another person.

3. Privacy Protection Through Digital Address Storage

India’s e-passport removes residential addresses from the printed last page—a significant privacy upgrade:

• Reduced data misuse: Your address is no longer visible to anyone who sees your passport. This prevents criminals from identifying your home or targeting you for burglary while you’re traveling.
• Authorized-only access: Your address is stored digitally in the chip and accessible only to authorized immigration officials.
• Data protection alignment: This change reflects global best practices and India’s commitment to personal data security.

4. Global Acceptance & ICAO Compliance

The e-passport adheres to International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards, ensuring:

• Seamless travel across 120+ countries: Including the US, Canada, France, Japan, Australia, Germany, Singapore, and most EU nations.
• Faster visa processing: Many countries’ visa systems can electronically verify e-passport data, reducing manual processing time.
• Future-ready: As more countries deploy e-gate infrastructure, e-passport holders will experience increasingly faster immigration.

5. Enhanced Durability & Longevity

The chip-integrated passport booklet is engineered for frequent travel:

• Wear-resistant: The RFID chip cannot be scratched or damaged by regular handling, unlike printed information that fades with age.
• Long-term data integrity: Biometric data stored in the chip is permanent and encrypted, preventing degradation.
• Reliable across climate conditions: The sealed chip is protected from moisture, heat, and environmental damage.

6. Reduced Risk of Data Loss

If your e-passport is damaged:

• Printed data plus digital backup: Your information exists both in print and on the chip. Even if the printed pages are torn, the digital backup ensures your identity is verifiable.
• Remote lockdown capability: If your passport is lost or stolen, police can file an FIR, and the government can remotely lock the chip’s authentication function, rendering it useless for fraudulent use despite physical possession.

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E-Passport Availability Across India: Where to Apply

As of January 2026, e-passport facilities are available at major Passport Seva Kendras across India. The rollout is phased and expanding. Here are the primary cities where e-passport services are currently operational:

Metro Cities (Fully Operational):

• Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Pune, Kolkata

Tier-1 Cities (Operational):

• Jaipur, Lucknow, Chandigarh, Bhubaneswar, Nagpur, Ahmedabad, Surat

Tier-2 Cities (Expanding):

• Indore, Vadodara, Kochi, Goa, Ludhiana, and others (check availability on Passport Seva portal)

Availability Check: Visit https://services1.passportindia.gov.in/psp, select your state, and check which PSKs/POPSKs offer e-passport services. The portal updates availability in real-time.

Rollout timeline: The Ministry of External Affairs announced nationwide availability by end of 2025. By January 2026, most major cities are covered, with expansion continuing in smaller towns.

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FAQ: Common Questions About E-Passport India

Q1: Can I keep my regular passport if I already have one?
A: Yes. Existing regular passports remain valid until their expiration date. There is no mandatory requirement to switch immediately. However, when you renew, you’ll receive an e-passport if services are available at your local PSK.

Q2: Is the e-passport more expensive than a regular passport?
A: No. The e-passport fee is identical to the regular passport fee (₹1,500–₹2,000). The advanced RFID chip technology incurs no additional charge.

Q3: How long does the RFID chip last?
A: The RFID chip is designed to last the entire 10-year validity period of the passport. It’s manufactured to withstand repeated scanning and environmental stress without degradation.

Q4: Can someone skim my e-passport data from a distance?
A: Extremely unlikely. The chip requires the machine-readable zone (printed at the bottom of your passport’s data page) to unlock, and the read range is less than 10 centimeters. Additionally, the metallic mesh in the cover blocks unauthorized scanning. For extra security, consider RFID-blocking passport wallets (though actual skimming attacks are rare).

Q5: Is my biometric data safe?
A: Yes. Your biometric data (fingerprints, facial features, iris scans) is encrypted using PKI (Public Key Infrastructure), a globally recognized security standard. Only authorized immigration officials can access this data using government credentials.

Q6: What happens if my e-passport chip malfunctions?
A: The e-passport’s dual nature (printed data + digital chip) means the passport remains functional even if the chip fails. However, you would request a replacement passport citing the chip malfunction.

Q7: Can I apply for an e-passport if I’ve never had a passport?
A: Yes. Any Indian citizen is eligible to apply for a fresh e-passport. The process is the same as a regular passport application.

Q8: How do I track my e-passport application status?
A: Log into your Passport Seva account using your registered credentials and Application Reference Number (ARN). The portal provides real-time status updates, including police verification progress and dispatch information.

Q9: Can NRIs apply for e-passports?
A: Yes. NRIs can apply through Indian missions and embassies abroad, subject to facility availability. Check with your nearest Indian mission for current e-passport services.

Q10: What if my name changes after getting an e-passport?
A: You can apply for a re-issue (name change) passport following the standard process. Apply at your nearest PSK with the required documents (marriage certificate, deed poll, or official name change documentation).

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Conclusion: Your E-Passport Journey

India’s e-passport launch represents a significant upgrade in travel security, convenience, and global alignment. With its embedded RFID chip, multi-layer encryption, and biometric authentication, the e-passport virtually eliminates the risk of forgery while enabling faster immigration processing across 120+ countries. Whether you’re a frequent international traveler, a first-time passport applicant, or someone renewing an existing document, understanding the e-passport process, fees, and security features ensures a smooth application experience.

The application process is straightforward: register on the Passport Seva portal, complete your form, pay the fee (₹1,500–₹2,000), attend your PSK appointment for biometric capture, and wait 30–45 days for normal processing or 1–3 days for Tatkal service. The fees remain competitive and identical to regular passports—there’s no premium for this advanced technology.

As the rollout expands nationwide, applying for an e-passport is becoming increasingly convenient. Most metro and tier-1 cities already offer e-passport services, with smaller towns following soon. If you’re eligible, applying now positions you ahead of the curve, giving you access to the fastest, most secure travel document India has ever issued.

Start your application today on the official Passport Seva portal and experience the future of Indian travel documentation.

Sources

1. Official Passport Seva Portal: https://services1.passportindia.gov.in/psp
2. Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) India: https://www.mea.gov.in
3. ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) Standards: https://www.icao.int
4. NDTV Travel (Major News Outlet): https://www.ndtv.com/travel
5. Financial Express Technology (Business News): https://www.financialexpress.com/life/technology

Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and not official government advice. For accurate, current information about e-passport applications, fees, eligibility, and procedures, please visit the official Passport Seva Portal at https://services1.passportindia.gov.in/psp or contact your nearest Passport Seva Kendra. Processing times, fees, and eligibility criteria are subject to change by the Government of India. We are not liable for any errors, delays, or damages arising from the use of this information. Always verify details on official government sources before applying.