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Time of India
4 days ago
- Time of India
Passport Seva 2.0: Check out the eligibility, how to apply, documents required, benefits, and more
Passport Seva 2.0: Passport Seva 2.0 rollout marks a watershed moment in India's quest for streamlined, secure travel documents. Launched nationwide on Passport Seva Divas, the upgraded system introduces e-passports with embedded chips, fresh options like mobile passport vans, and enhanced Post Office Passport Seva Kendras . With the support of the mPassport Police App, police verification is now faster and more transparent, cutting delays from weeks to days. The result? A travel-ready document that meets global standards and delivers convenience to your doorstep. This transformation in the Passport Seva Programme signals a new era of digital-first governance and user-centric service. Keep reading to explore how this modernization might change how millions of Indians travel abroad. What is Passport Seva 2.0? With the June 25, 2025, launch of Passport Seva 2.0, India's passport services will undergo a technological revolution. Advanced features, including cloud computing for smooth service delivery, quicker police verification via the mPassport Police App, and more availability through mobile passport vans and new service centers, are all part of the updated system. There are 450 Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs), with 10 more openings as of this writing. The e-Passport deployment, which External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar announced on the 13th Passport Seva Divas, ushers in a new era of travel documents for Indian nationals. With contactless chip technology, e-passports offer improved security, expedited immigration, and a seamless journey. Here is all the information you require to apply for an Indian e-passport. Passport Seva 2.0 available in these states Nagpur, Bhubaneswar, Jammu, Panaji, Shimla, Raipur, Amritsar, Jaipur, Tamil Nadu, Chennai, Hyderabad, Surat, and Ranchi are notable locations where the e-Passports service is being offered. Soon, it should be accessible across the country. e-Passport eligibility The requirements for applying for an e-passport are comparable to obtaining a traditional Indian passport. E-passports are now being issued in stages but will soon be required for all new applications. How to apply for Passport Seva 2.0? To apply for an e-passport, individuals can use the Passport Seva Portal or make an appointment for biometric enrollment at nearby Passport Seva Kendras or Post Office locations. Step 1: Register by going to the Passport Seva Online Portal. Step 2: Select the "Apply for Fresh Passport/Re-issue of Passport" link on the Passport Seva Online Portal after logging in. Applicants should choose the Fresh Issuance category if this is their first time applying. It should be noted that the applicant should not have previously held an official, diplomatic, or ordinary passport. Step 3: Complete the necessary information and submit. Step 4: Then tap "Pay and Schedule Appointment," accessible under "View Saved/Submitted Applications," to set up an appointment. Please be aware that all PSK, POPSK, and PO locations require online payment to schedule appointments. Step 5: Print the receipt with your Application Reference Number (ARN) or Appointment Number after completing the application. Your appointment details will also be sent to you via SMS. You must present it at the passport office, so save it. Step 6: After completing the passport application, bring original documentation to the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO) to finish the physical verification procedure. e-Passport: Document required To apply for an e-passport, you will need the following documents: Evidence of address, including utility bills, bank passbooks, Aadhaar, PAN cards, etc. Evidence of birth, including a driver's license, matriculation certificate, voter ID, birth certificate, Aadhaar, etc. The original passport, observation page, copies of the first and last pages, and an ECR or non-ECR page must all be submitted by those requesting a passport reissue. Benefits of e-passport The new e-passports are chip-enabled, biometric travel credentials that reduce fraud and improve identification verification. Important characteristics include: Encrypted biometric and personal information is stored on an embedded chip. Biometric information such as a photo, iris scan, and fingerprints Contactless scanning to expedite clearance at airports adherence to the global travel rules set out by the ICAO These passports guarantee increased security and convenience of travel abroad, bringing India into line with international standards and increasing its residents' opportunities for global mobility. Police verification of e-passport Usually, a police verification procedure is necessary. This procedure now only takes 5–7 days in many places because of the mPassport Police App. Quicker delivery and verification With the mPassport Police App now available in 25 states and union territories, police checks can be completed in 5–7 days, greatly reducing verification time. People with urgent travel needs will profit from this change, which speeds up passport processing.
News18
7 days ago
- Politics
- News18
How To Apply For India's New E-Passport And What Changes With Passport Seva 2.0
Last Updated: EAM Jaishankar's Passport Seva 2.0 overhaul promises faster police checks, expanded passport access, and a more transparent, tech-enabled system. Marking the 13th Passport Seva Divas, External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday unveiled sweeping reforms aimed at modernising and streamlining India's passport services. From chip-enabled e-passports and faster police verifications to passport vans for remote areas and a global tech upgrade in embassies, the shift signals what Jaishankar called a 'remarkable transformation" in service delivery over the past decade. The overhaul comes under the expanded Passport Seva Programme (PSP) Version 2.0, which has now been rolled out nationwide, and aligns with the government's larger push for citizen-centric governance and a more connected global India. What's New In India's Passport Services? In a detailed post on X, Jaishankar praised passport authorities both in India and overseas for enabling this 'dramatic shift" in delivery standards. He also laid out a vision tied to Prime Minister Narendra Modi's development goals: 'Seva, Sushasan and Garib Kalyan are three key pillars of governance that would lead us to a Viksit Bharat. They are all reflected with prominence in our Passport Seva Programme," he wrote. The EAM confirmed that Passport Seva Programme Version 2.0 has now been rolled out across India, integrating advanced and emerging technologies to improve transparency, speed, and user experience. PSP Version 2.0 launched nationwide, leveraging emerging tech to boost transparency, security and convenience. Global PSP V2.0 has entered the pilot phase in Indian embassies and consulates, with phased rollouts planned worldwide. e-Passports introduced countrywide, using embedded chips and contactless technology to improve immigration and travel security. mPassport Police App has reduced police verification time to 5–7 days in 25 States and Union Territories. Ten new Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) opened in the past year, including the 450th POPSK in Kushinagar, Uttar Pradesh, in April 2025. Mobile passport vans deployed to provide services in remote and underserved areas. Jaishankar underscored the tangible results of these efforts. Passport issuance in India has jumped from 91 lakh in 2014 to 1.46 crore in 2024, pointing to greater reach and operational efficiency. What Are E-Passports And Why Do They Matter? With the nationwide launch of e-passports, India joins a growing list of countries adopting biometric and chip-based passports to enhance both convenience and security. Features of India's New e-Passports: Secure Embedded Chip: Integrated in the front cover to store encrypted personal and biometric data. Biometric Storage: Includes fingerprints, iris scan, and facial photograph. Contactless Technology: The chip can be read without physical contact, speeding up airport checks. ICAO-Compliant: Fully aligned with international standards laid out by the International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO). Enhanced Security: Greatly reduces the chances of data forgery or duplication. The new tech also simplifies immigration procedures and boosts India's credibility on the global mobility map. Jaishankar called the rollout a 'significant achievement" that will empower workers and professionals to access global opportunities more easily. How To Apply For An E-Passport Online In India Applying for an e-passport is similar to the current process through the Passport Seva system. Here's a step-by-step guide: Visit the Passport Seva Portal: Go to the official website managed by the Government of India. Register or log in: New users must create an account. Existing users can log in using their credentials. Fill out the application form: Select the e-passport option and enter your personal and travel information. Choose Service Centre: Pick your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK). Pay the application fee: Make the payment online through the available modes. Book an appointment: Schedule a convenient slot for biometric and document verification. Visit the centre: Attend your appointment on time with all required documents. Broader Impact: Toward A Viksit Bharat top videos View all From digitising verifications to decentralising access through POPSKs and mobile vans, the passport reforms reflect the government's larger goal of creating an inclusive and digitally empowered India. 'We have empowered workers and professionals to access global opportunities, strengthening India's global workforce footprint," Jaishankar said. He concluded his post with a note of appreciation for all personnel involved: 'I take this opportunity to congratulate everyone at Passport Offices, PSKs, POPSKs and all partners… for their dedication." News18 Tech delivers the latest technology updates, including phone launches, gadget reviews, AI advancements, and more. Stay informed with breaking tech news, expert insights, and trends from India and around the world. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! tags : e-passport eam jaishankar Indian passports Location : New Delhi, India, India First Published: June 26, 2025, 08:35 IST News tech How To Apply For India's New E-Passport And What Changes With Passport Seva 2.0
Time of India
25-06-2025
- Time of India
Digital push for all 42 post office passport units in Bengal
Kolkata: All 42 Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) under the jurisdiction of the Kolkata Regional Passport Office (RPO) have been digitised. This digital shift will prevent delays in application processing, especially at remote locations. Previously, it used to take two weeks or more for processing of applications at remote centres. But the new system aims at ensuring near real-time processing. "All documents can now be submitted and transmitted electronically,"said Ashish Middha, regional passport officer, Kolkata. Kolkata RPO manages 40 POPSKs in Bengal, one each in Tripura and in Andaman and Nicobar Islands. While POPSKs handle 'Counter A' operations — such as initial document check — any objections regarding incomplete applications can now be flagged and resolved online. The subsequent stages are completed at the Regional Passport Office, Kolkata. Police Clearance Certificate services are now operational at Beadon Street HPO, Howrah HPO, Barrackpore HPO, Krishnanagar HPO, and Serampore HPO. You Can Also Check: Kolkata AQI | Weather in Kolkata | Bank Holidays in Kolkata | Public Holidays in Kolkata
Time of India
25-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Passport Seva Programme V2.0 rolled out across India: External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar on Tuesday praised the work of passport authorities across India and overseas on the occasion of the 13th Passport Seva Divas. He also announced significant developments in the Passport Seva Programme (PSP), including the nationwide launch of e-Passports. Sharing the same on social media, the minister highlighted the transformation in passport services under the pillars of "Seva, Sushasan and Garib Kalyan", calling them the key pillars of governance that would lead us to a Viksit Bharat. 'They are all reflected with prominence in our Passport Seva Programme," he said. He highlighted the remarkable progress in passport services over the past decade, noting that passport issuance had increased from 91 lakh in 2014 to 1.46 crore in 2024. The Minister also stated that the Passport Seva Programme Version 2.0 has been implemented nationwide, incorporating advanced and emerging technologies to enhance efficiency and transparency in service delivery. Greetings to all Passport Authorities in India and abroad on the occasion of the 13th Passport Seva Divas. Your commendable efforts, guided by 'Seva, Sushasan and Garib Kalyan', are instrumental to ensuring ease of travel, deepening access to global workplace and empowering the… — Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 24, 2025 "In line with the Government of India's commitment to deliver the next level of citizen-centric service, I am delighted to inform you that we have rolled out PSP V2.0 across the country," he said. He further informed that pilot testing of the Global PSP V2.0 is also underway and that it will be launched in phases in all Indian embassies and consulates. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like 봄 출근길에는 유어턴 팔찌 이렇게만 차 봐 굿네이버스 더 알아보기 Undo Read more: Train travel to get slightly costlier From July 1; all details on fare hike Jaishankar described the e-Passport initiative as a significant milestone, noting that its contactless, chip-based data reading will simplify travel and speed up immigration procedures. He also highlighted the introduction of the mPassport Police App, which has helped reduce police verification time to 5–7 days across 25 States and Union Territories. He said that in the last year, 10 new Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) were opened, including the 450th POPSK in Kushinagar in April 2025. "We have reached the remotest areas of our country through our mobile van facilities, which have enhanced the ease of passport services for citizens living in far-flung areas," he added. Jaishankar noted that these initiatives have empowered Indian workers and professionals to tap into global opportunities, thereby enhancing the country's presence in the international workforce. Read more: The world's 10 least liveable cities in 2025 In his post on X, Jaishankar extended his congratulations to everyone involved in the passport delivery ecosystem for their contributions and continued commitment. "I take this opportunity to congratulate everyone at Passport Offices (PO), Passport Seva Kendras (PSK), Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSK) and all partners of Passport Seva Programme, including the Department of Posts, India Security Press at Nashik, State Police authorities, our service providers and others for their dedication in rendering passports and related services collectively to our citizens," he said. One step to a healthier you—join Times Health+ Yoga and feel the change
Time of India
25-06-2025
- Business
- Time of India
Passport Seva 2.0, e-Passports: S Jaishankar makes big announcements; here's what you should know
File photo: EAM S Jaishankar (Picture credit: ANI) External affairs minister S Jaishankar on Tuesday announced the nationwide rollout of e-Passports and the Passport Seva Programme (PSP) Version 2.0, calling it a major step in enhancing citizen services and boosting India's global mobility framework. The announcement was made on the occasion of the 13th Passport Seva Divas. 'In line with the Government of India's commitment to deliver the next level of citizen-centric service, I am delighted to inform that we have rolled out PSP V2.0 across the country,' Jaishankar posted on X. He said the upgraded system leverages advanced technologies to ensure greater efficiency, transparency, and ease of access. The Minister highlighted that passport issuance has risen significantly from 91 lakh in 2014 to 1.46 crore in 2024, indicating a strong expansion in service delivery. He also announced that the pilot of Global PSP V2.0 is underway and will soon be introduced across Indian missions abroad. The launch of e-Passports was a key highlight, with Jaishankar stating that these contactless chip-based documents will allow faster and more secure immigration processing. 'The e-Passport initiative marks a significant shift in travel documentation,' he said. The minister also spoke about the introduction of the mPassport Police App, which has helped reduce the police verification process to just 5–7 days in 25 States and Union Territories. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like The 15 Most Useless Cars To Ever Be Produced, Ranked In Order Daily Sport X Undo To further improve outreach, 10 new Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) were added in the past year, including the 450th POPSK in Kushinagar in April 2025. Jaishankar said mobile passport vans have expanded access to passport services in remote regions. These reforms, he noted, are aligned with the broader goals of Seva (service), Sushasan (good governance), and Garib Kalyan (welfare of the poor) — all crucial to building a Viksit Bharat (developed India). 'I take this opportunity to congratulate everyone at Passport Offices, Passport Seva Kendras, Post Office Passport Seva Kendras, and all partners of the Passport Seva Programme, including the Department of Posts, India Security Press, State Police, and service providers,' Jaishankar added. Minister of state for external affairs Pabitra Margherita also attended the Passport Seva Divas celebrations and praised the programme's inclusivity and innovations like rainwater harvesting and TRIFED outlets at passport offices. According to ANI, he reaffirmed MEA's commitment to timely and citizen-friendly passport services under the leadership of Prime Minister Narendra Modi and EAM Jaishankar. The three-day Regional Passport Officers' Conference held alongside saw discussions on service innovation, grievance redressal, and capacity building to strengthen the passport delivery ecosystem. Stay informed with the latest business news, updates on bank holidays and public holidays . AI Masterclass for Students. Upskill Young Ones Today!– Join Now
