India's digital leap

A new era of digital travel begins as India introduces secure, chip-enabled e-Passports nationwide

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India is undergoing a significant transformation in its travel documentation, moving from traditional paper-based passports to e-Passports (electronic passports) with embedded microchips.

This initiative, part of the modernized Passport Seva Programme (PSP) Version 2.0, is designed to enhance security, curb forgery, and provide seamless global travel for Indian citizens, aligning the nation with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.

What is e-Passport?

The e-Passport looks similar to a conventional passport booklet but features an embedded electronic Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip and antenna, typically within the back cover.

Features and technology

Embedded microchip: The chip has a storage capacity of up to 64 kilobytes and securely holds the holder's personal and biometric data.

Biometric data: The chip stores a highresolution photograph, fingerprints, and demographic data (name, date of birth, etc,).

Digital signature: The data on the chip is protected by Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) technology.This digital signature guarantees the authenticity of the data and detects any attempt at tampering or forgery, making it a highly secure, tamper-proof document.