e-Passport: How do you get a passport with a high-tech chip? Learn the complete process for applying..

To further improve passport security standards, the process of issuing e-Passports has begun across the country. If you have issued or renewed your passport on or after May 28, 2025, the passport you will receive will be an e-Passport.

It will look similar to the old passport, but will contain a chip beneath the Ashoka Pillar on its cover. This chip will contain all the passport holder's biometric information. This raises the question: how can you apply for an e-Passport? Let's understand the entire process in detail.

What is an e-Passport?

An e-Passport is an advanced version of a normal passport, embedded with an electronic chip. This chip stores the passport holder's biometric data, photo, fingerprint, and personal information.

This passport comes with several other advanced security features, making it nearly impossible to create a fake or counterfeit passport. An e-passport also speeds up the immigration process. Let's learn how you can apply for an e-passport.

How to Apply for an e-passport
You can apply for an e-passport online by visiting the Passport Seva Portal. To do this, you:

Step 1: First, go to the Passport Seva Online Portal and register yourself.

Step 2: After registration, log in to the portal and click on "Apply for a Fresh Passport / Re-issue of Passport." Note: If you are applying for a passport for the first time, select the "Refresh Issue" option.

Step 3: Now, fill in the required information correctly and submit it. Always cross-check all the information before submitting it. Incorrect information may cause problems in obtaining a passport.

Step 4: After submitting the form, go to the "View Saved/Submitted Applications" section and click "Pay and Schedule Appointment." Please note that online payment is required here, as only then will your appointment be booked at the PSK, POPSK, or post office.

Step 5: After submitting the application and completing the payment, you will receive a receipt containing your ARN or appointment number. You will also receive appointment details via SMS to your registered number. Keep these safe, as you will need to show them at the passport office.

How many days will it take to get your e-Passport?
Step 6: Visit the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Regional Passport Office (RPO) on your appointment date with your original documents and complete the physical verification process. If you have selected the verification option at your address, a passport van will come to your address to verify your documents. Please note that the passport van service is currently available in only a few areas. Step 7: Your police verification will then take place, and your e-passport will be delivered to your address within 15 to 20 days.

What to keep in mind when making an e-Passport
When applying for an e-Passport, you need to keep a few things in mind.

- When applying for a passport, cross-check all details two to three times before filling them in.

- You may need documents like your Aadhaar card, PAN card, bank passbook, electricity/water/gas bill, etc. for this. So, keep these documents with you when applying.

- To prove your date of birth, you may need documents like your birth certificate, Aadhaar card, voter ID, driving license, matriculation certificate, etc.

- Arrive at the PSK for your appointment with all your original documents.

Disclaimer: This content has been sourced and edited from Navbharat Times. While we have made modifications for clarity and presentation, the original content belongs to its respective authors and website. We do not claim ownership of the content.