E-Passports

E-Passports Latest News

India has joined over 120 nations in issuing biometric e-passports, offering enhanced security, faster immigration, and global compliance.

About e-Passports

• An e-passport (electronic or biometric passport) is an upgraded version of the traditional passport. It combines a conventional booklet with an embedded Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip and antenna in the back cover. 
• This chip securely stores the holder’s personal and biometric data, including:
  • Name, date of birth, passport number, and other demographic details
  • Biometric facial data and fingerprints
  • Digital signature for secure authentication
• Security Features of E-Passports
  • RFID Chip & Antenna: Stores encrypted personal and biometric data, making unauthorized access or tampering extremely difficult.
  • Basic Access Control (BAC): Stops unauthenticated access to the chip by restricting scanning equipment to only authorized devices.
  • Passive Authentication (PA): Authenticates stored information and identifies tampering.
  • Extended Access Control (EAC): Introduces an additional layer of security to biometric data such as fingerprints.
  • Public Key Infrastructure (PKI): Digitally signs the data, ensuring authenticity and preventing forgery or unauthorized data changes.
• Benefits of E-Passports
  • Enhanced Security: Strong protection against forgery, duplication, and identity theft due to encrypted biometric data and digital signatures.
  • Faster Immigration: Automated e-gates and digital verification reduce manual checks and waiting times at airports.
  • Global Acceptance: Compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards ensures smooth travel and easier visa processing worldwide.
  • Privacy: New e-passports no longer print the residential address on the last page; it is stored digitally and accessible only to authorised officials.

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E-Passports FAQs

Q1. Is the e-passport launched in India?

Ans. Yes, India has started issuing e-passports to its citizens.

Q2. What is an e-passport?

Ans. An e-passport is a passport with an embedded electronic chip that securely stores your personal and biometric details.

Q4. What is the cost of e-passport in India?

Ans. The cost is ₹1,500 for a 36-page passport and ₹2,000 for a 60-page passport for adults.

Source: TOI