The Government of India is gradually introducing an e-passport in all cities. Featuring an embedded RFID chip and antenna, it is a combined paper and electronic passport.
One interesting aspect is the chip. It is visually identified by a small gold-colored symbol on the front cover.The passport holder's personal and biometric data is securely stored by the chip.
120 countries have issued biometric e-passports. The United States, Canada, France, Japan, and Australia are among them, and India is next. This represents a major step forward in enhancing national security and streamlining cross-border travel.
This move aligns India with ICAO international standards. Until their official expiry date,existing passports issued by the government of India remain valid.
The e-passport lets Indian Travellers have a safe experience. This is the need of the hour as border security in becoming more and more critical amid global travel rebounds.
Key Benefits of an e-passport are:
Enhanced Data Security:
The risk of forgery and fraudulent passports will not be a concern anymore. Immigration officials can easily authenticate data, the e-Passport provides. A printed e-passport is also available, along with a digitally signed electronic chip that stores the e-passport information.
Robust Encryption: The integrity and origin of personal and biometric data is ensured by the ePassport's chip. It is protected by Public Key Infrastructure (PKI).
International Standards Compliance: The e-Passport uses the following ICAO Document 9303 guidelines.
Passive Authentication(PA): Verifies stored data and detects tampering.
Basic Access Control (BAC): Restricts chip access to authorised scanning devices.
Extended Access Control (EAC): For sensitive biometric information like fingerprints, it adds an extra security layer.
Streamlined Immigration: It lowers wait times and eases the travel experience. Biometric verification via ePassport permits automated and contactless checks at border control.
Global Compatibility: It simplifies international travel. At checkpoints in most countries, e-passports meeting ICAO specifications are accepted.
Fraud Prevention: It protects individual identities and deters counterfeiters. It is difficult to tamper with or duplicate passports due to advanced security features.
Traveler Convenience: ePassport holders pass through immigration faster without manual inspections due to automated e-gates at airports.
National Security: Border control is strengthened due to biometric data in passports. It accurately tracks cross-border movement, and it prevents identity theft.
Simplified Updates: The application process is smooth. Electronic storage makes renewing or updating personal details more efficient.
Digital Transformation: The e-Passport supports India's move toward paperless travel and digital identities, paving the way for future innovations in global mobility.
Replacement is not mandatory for current Passport holders. As each Passport Office becomes technically equipped, ePassports will be issued gradually and this process may take a few months.
