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India's New Digital Passport: Security & Speed
24 Jan
Summary
- ePassports store encrypted biometric data on an embedded microchip.
- These digital passports enhance security against forgery and identity theft.
- ePassports enable faster immigration clearance at international airports.
India has begun issuing electronic passports, or ePassports, integrating a microchip that stores encrypted holder details like fingerprints and digital photos. This advancement, launched in April 2024 under Passport Seva Programme (PSP 2.0), aims to bolster security and streamline international travel.
The ePassport features a small gold symbol on its cover, indicating the embedded chip, which complies with ICAO standards. These digital passports offer superior security against tampering and forgery due to advanced encryption and biometric authentication protocols, including BAC, PA, and EAC.
Beyond enhanced security, ePassports facilitate quicker immigration clearance. Where implemented, electronic scanning of the chip significantly reduces passenger wait times. India joins over 120 countries, including the US and Japan, in adopting this technology, preparing citizens for evolving global border control systems.
