Key Considerations for E-Passport - India

An e-passport (electronic passport) in India may include an embedded microchip with biometric data, enhancing security and facilitating faster immigration processes (implementation subject to confirmation for 2025). This guide outlines key considerations for obtaining and maintaining an e-passport in 2025, including maintenance, biometric accuracy, procedures for lost passports, and special considerations for minors.

E-Passport Maintenance

Proper care of your e-passport is crucial to ensure its functionality for international travel:

Keep in Good Condition: The e-passport may contain a microchip embedded in the cover. Damage to the chip (e.g., bending, water exposure, or tampering) could render the passport invalid for international travel.
Storage Tips: Store the passport in a dry, secure place, preferably in a protective cover, to prevent physical damage or exposure to extreme temperatures.
Inspection Before Travel: Check the passport for visible damage before international travel. If the chip is suspected to be damaged, contact the Regional Passport Office (RPO) for inspection.

Biometric Accuracy

Accurate biometric data is essential for e-passport functionality:

Data Captured: During your visit to the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK), ensure fingerprints and facial photographs are accurately captured.
Preparation: Maintain clear visibility of your face (no glasses, hats, or facial coverings) and clean hands for fingerprint scanning to avoid errors.
Verification: Double-check the biometric data entry at the PSK to ensure accuracy, as errors can lead to issues at immigration checkpoints.

FIR for Lost E-Passports

If your e-passport is lost or stolen, take immediate action:

File a Police Report: Report the loss to the nearest police station and obtain a First Information Report (FIR).
Include FIR with Application: Submit a self-attested copy of the FIR when applying for a replacement e-passport at the RPO or PSK.
Additional Steps: Inform the nearest Indian embassy or consulate if the loss occurs abroad, and apply for a replacement through the Passport Seva portal.

Document Consistency

Ensure all details in your e-passport application are consistent with previous records:

Matching Details: Your name, date of birth, and address must match exactly with documents like Aadhaar card, voter ID, or previous passport records.
Discrepancy Resolution: If there are discrepancies (e.g., spelling errors or date mismatches), provide supporting documents (e.g., affidavit, updated Aadhaar) to rectify them before applying.
Rejection Risk: Inconsistent details can lead to application rejection, delaying the issuance of your e-passport.

Tatkaal Limitations

The Tatkaal (expedited) service for e-passports has specific restrictions:

Limited Availability: Tatkaal processing for lost or severely damaged e-passports is subject to the discretion of the Regional Passport Office (RPO).
Additional Scrutiny: Applications for replacement e-passports under Tatkaal may require extra verification, and approval is not guaranteed.
Standard Processing: If Tatkaal is not approved, the application will be processed under the normal timeline (15-30 days).

Minors (Under 18)

Special considerations apply for e-passport applications for minors:

Requirement	Description
Parental Consent	Both parents or the legal guardian must provide consent via Annexure D (for minors under 18) or Annexure H (for specific cases, e.g., single parent or guardian). Consent forms must be signed and submitted with the application.
Biometrics for Minors	Minors aged 5 and above may need to visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) for biometric capture (fingerprints and photograph). Children under 5 are typically exempt from biometrics.
Documents	In addition to standard documents (Aadhaar, birth certificate, etc.), include parent/guardian’s identity proof and address proof. Ensure consistency in the minor’s details across all documents.

Note: On mobile devices, scroll horizontally to view the full table.

Note: Parents should accompany minors to the PSK appointment and bring original documents for verification.

Prepare for Your E-Passport Application

Follow these key considerations to ensure a smooth e-passport application process and maintain your passport’s functionality for international travel.

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