4 days ago
Passport Seva 2.0: How to apply for e-Passport in India
On the occasion of the 13th Passport Seva Divas, External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced major advancements in the Passport Seva Programme (PSP) and the nationwide rollout of e-Passports. Passport Seva Programme Version 2.0 has already been rolled out across the country, bringing in high-end, emerging technologies to improve efficiency and transparency.
The pilot testing of the Global PSP V2.0 is also underway and will be implemented in phases in all Indian embassies and consulates.
What is the new e-Passport initiative?
The e-Passport initiative is a major milestone, easing travel and expediting immigration clearances with its contactless chip-based data reading. The new initiative is aimed at creating a digital platform that would be 'transparent, more accessible and reliable' and that it would be backed by a trained workforce. Under this initiative, the new and renewed passports will be fitted with a microchip that will hold all biometric information regarding the applicants.
How to apply for an e-passport?
An individual can apply for an e-passport through the official Passport Seva website and follow the steps mentioned below:
1. Go to the official Passport Seva website.
2. New users are required to create an account, while existing users may log in with their credentials.
3. Fill in the e-passport application by providing the required details.
4. Choose a Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK) according to your convenience.
5. Pay the e-passport fee.
6. Take an appointment by selecting a date and time slot for the chosen service centre.
7. Visit the PSK or POPSK at the scheduled time for biometric capture and document verification.
