E-Passport
An E-Passport, also known as a biometric passport, is an electronic passport that has a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip and an antenna embedded inside the passport. It contains the passport holder's personal details and biometric information and securely stores the applicant's biometric data.
E-Passports can be identified by a small additional gold coloured symbol printed on the bottom page of the outer cover of the passport.
Benefits and uses of E-passport
- The main advantage of passport is that it stores the details or information of the passport holder securely.
- The personal information in the e-passport will be digitally printed and signed in the electronic chip. This will ensure the authenticity of the passport as well as protect the passport from forgery and avoid potential fraudulent activities like fake passports.
- E-Passports can be easily and securely authenticated by immigration officials globally.
- E-passport will make it difficult to make fake passports as the authenticity of the passport will be verified through the digital chip.
- The underlying technology supporting the security of e-Passports is the Public Key Infrastructure (PKI) solution which is the foundation for protecting sensitive information and verifying the integrity and origin of personal and biometric data stored on the chip within the e-Passport.
- E-passport can be authenticated securely and easily within a short time while travelling within the country or abroad.
Is there a separate fee for E-passport?
No, there is no extra passport fee in E-passport right now.
Is it mandatory for existing valid passport holders to replace their passport with e-passport?
No. Existing valid passports will remain valid till the expiry date of the passport. Thereafter, the passport will be converted into an e-passport at the time of renewal.
How to identify E-passport?
E-Passports can be identified by a small additional gold coloured logo printed on the bottom page of the outer cover of the passport.
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