How to Apply for India’s New E-Passport: Step-by-Step Guide
New Delhi, 28th June 2025: In a significant step towards enhancing passport services and securing citizens’ data, the Government of India has officially launched ‘Passport Seva 2.0’, a tech-driven upgrade that includes the rollout of the e-passport — a chip-enabled, tamper-proof passport that promises faster processing, improved security, and global compatibility.
The announcement was made by External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar on June 24, during the celebration of the 13th Passport Seva Diwas.
“In this digital age, the introduction of e-passports marks a major leap in service delivery and security for Indian citizens. Passport Seva 2.0 will redefine how we handle identity, travel, and authentication in international mobility,” the Minister said at the launch.
Why E-Passport?
Until recently, a passport was considered essential only for those who frequently traveled abroad. Today, however, it is increasingly used for a variety of purposes — from identity verification to residence certificates and even job applications. As demand for passports grows, so does the need for safer and more efficient systems.
The e-passport, part of the Passport Seva Program, aims to meet this demand with advanced technology and ICAO-compliant standards, ensuring international acceptance.
Key Features and Benefits
Embedded Electronic Chip: Each e-passport contains a secure chip that stores personal and biometric data of the holder.
Tamper-Proof Security: The chip makes it difficult for fraudsters to tamper with or forge the passport.
Faster Airport Processing: With machine-readable features, travelers can expect quicker immigration clearances, reducing wait times at international airports.
Data Protection: Personal information is safely encrypted in the chip, enhancing privacy and reducing risks of misuse.
Simplified Police Verification with mPassport Police App
To tackle delays in police verification, especially in remote and rural areas, the Ministry has introduced the mPassport Police App. With this app, the verification process — which earlier took weeks or even months — can now be completed in just 5 to 7 days, streamlining the overall issuance timeline.
How to Apply for an E-Passport
Visit: passportindia.gov.in
Register/Login: New users must register with basic details like name, date of birth, and mobile number.
Fill Application: Choose the e-passport option and provide personal and travel details.
Select Centre: Choose a nearby Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) for the appointment.
Make Payment: Use UPI, credit/debit card, or net banking to pay the applicable fee.
Book Appointment: Select your preferred date and time slot
Visit Centre: On the appointment day, visit the selected centre with all required documents for biometrics and verification.
Delivery: The new e-passport will be delivered by post to your registered address within a few days.
A Digital Leap in Public Services
With Passport Seva 2.0 and the rollout of e-passports, India joins a growing list of nations leveraging technology for secure, efficient, and citizen-friendly governance. The Ministry of External Affairs is also working towards expanding access to PSKs and POPSKs to ensure last-mile delivery of passport services.
Officials have urged citizens to stay updated and use only the official government platform for passport-related services to avoid falling prey to online frauds.
