Getting a passport used to be a tough and tiring task for many Indians. Long queues, delays, and confusing paperwork were common. But things have changed in the last few years — and now, the passport process in India is faster, smoother, and more user-friendly.
On June 24, 2025, during the 13th Passport Seva Divas, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar introduced Passport Seva 2.0. He thanked passport officers for improving services and said the system now focuses on three key goals:
Seva (Service), Sushasan (Good Governance), and Garib Kalyan (Welfare of the Poor).
What is Passport Seva 2.0?
This is a new version of the Passport Seva Programme, which aims to make passport services easier for everyone — not just people in big cities, but also in smaller towns and villages.
Now, people can go to nearby Post Office Passport Seva Kendras (POPSKs) to apply for or renew passports. This helps students, migrant workers, and first-time applicants in smaller towns save time and travel.
The process has become more comfortable, with easy appointment booking, timely updates, and well-managed service centers.
e-Passports Now in India
A big change under Passport Seva 2.0 is the launch of e-Passports across the country. These are not regular passports — they come with a small microchip embedded in the front cover that stores your personal and biometric details like photo and fingerprints.
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Features of e-Passports:
- Chip-based: Stores your data securely.
- Contactless: Scanned easily without opening the passport.
- International standard: Accepted globally (as per ICAO rules).
- Tamper-proof: Hard to fake or copy.
These high-tech passports make airport checks faster, safer, and more secure for travelers.
Benefits of e-Passports
- Quick scanning at immigration.
- Better security with advanced encryption.
- Digital storage of all your details.
- Global recognition.
They are being launched in phases and will soon be the standard for all new passports.
Faster Police Verification with mPassport Police App
One major cause of passport delays was police verification. To fix this, the government introduced a mobile app called mPassport Police App.
Used in 25 states and Union Territories, the app helps speed up the process:
- Verification is done in just 5 to 7 days in most places.
- Police can send updates in real time.
- No paperwork or delays.
This has helped students, professionals, and first-time users greatly.
How to Apply for an e-Passport Online in India
If you want an e-passport, follow these simple steps:
- Go to passportindia.gov.in – the official website.
- Register if you’re a first-time user. If you already have an account, just log in.
- Select the e-passport option and fill in your details.
- Choose your nearby Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or POPSK.
- Make payment using UPI, card, or net banking.
- Book your appointment date and time (mornings are less crowded).
- Visit the center with required documents. Your photo and fingerprints will be taken there.
After that, you can track your passport online. It will be delivered by post.
India’s passport system is getting smarter and better. With e-passports, faster verification, and tech-driven service centers, applying for a passport is now easier, quicker, and more secure than ever before.
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