India is moving toward a more secure and technologically advanced passport system as the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) begins rolling out upgraded services under the Passport Seva Programme (PSP). At the centre of this upgrade is the introduction of the e-passport, a next-generation document embedded with an ICAO-compliant RFID chip and antenna.
This chip contains the passport holder’s biometric and personal information—such as the photograph, fingerprints, and identifying details—stored in encrypted form. The digital architecture allows faster verification at immigration checkpoints, reduces chances of fraud, and enables touch-free data scanning through its antenna, which also enhances overall durability by limiting physical wear.
According to the MEA, all new passports issued will now be e-passports, although older, non-electronic versions will remain valid until their expiry. This upgrade is part of Passport Seva Programme Version 2.0, which became operational on May 26, 2025, across 37 Passport Offices, 93 Passport Seva Kendras, and 450 Post Office Passport Seva Kendras.
The newly launched Global Passport Seva Programme V2.0, introduced on October 28, has extended the same upgraded digital services to Indian embassies and consulates overseas. The MEA said the new system establishes an integrated digital ecosystem for passport issuance, featuring AI-driven chatbots and voice assistants to help citizens complete applications and resolve issues. A redesigned website and mobile app now enable autofill options, easier document uploads, and online payments through UPI and QR codes.
India issued more than 35 million passports in the last fiscal year—a 20% jump—reflecting improved accessibility and growing public trust in the enhanced system. Officials noted that the introduction of e-passports marks a major step toward strengthening the security of Indian travellers and modernising government services, making international travel safer, faster, and more convenient.
