E-Passport: Secure Your Travel with New Chip-Enabled Document, Apply Online Now!

• E-passports contain an electronic chip storing personal and biometric data, enhancing security and speeding up airport identification.
• Introduced to combat counterfeit passports and identity fraud, the embedded chip is difficult to copy, streamlining immigration.
• Application process mirrors regular passports: online application via Passport Seva, appointment, document submission, biometrics, and police verification.
• Fees are identical to regular passports: Rs 1500 for 36 pages (normal), Rs 2000 for 60 pages (normal); Tatkal options available at Rs 3500/Rs 4000.
• Key benefits include enhanced security, faster immigration, and global recognition, positioning India with modern travel documents.

Why It Matters: India is phasing in secure e-passports with embedded chips, offering enhanced security and faster international travel at no extra cost.