India has started offering e-passports, new type of travel document that citizen can now apply for across the country. These next-generation passports was first introduced on April 1, 2024, as part of pilot program launched by Ministry of External Affairs. Currently, only limited number of passport offices is equipped to issue them, but government plans to expand service gradually to more centers in coming months.

E-passport in India is upgraded version of traditional passport, integrating both physical and digital features. It comes with embedded Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) chip and antenna, which securely holds personal informations along with biometric details like fingerprints and digital photograph. On outside, it can recognized by small gold symbol printed on front cover, just beneath passport title.

To apply for e-passport, applicant must visit official Passport Seva portal, register or sign in, fill application form, select nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office Passport Seva Kendra (POPSK), pay applicable fee online, and schedule appointment. On appointment date, they must go to PSK or POPSK for biometric enrollment and document verification.

The introduction of e-passports aims to enhance security, streamline application process, and facilitate more smooth international travel for Indian citizens.