Which Indian Districts Are Offering e-passports? Is it Mandatory to Get, Check

To boost identification accuracy and enhance document security, the Indian government has officially launched the e-passport, blending advanced electronic chip technology with the traditional passport format. This initiative is being rolled out under the Passport Seva Programme (PSP) Version 2.0, which went live on April 1, 2024, as confirmed by the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA).

Where Are e-Passports Being Issued in India?

As part of the pilot phase, e-passports are currently being issued in the following 13 cities:

Nagpur

Bhubaneswar

Jammu

Goa

Shimla

Raipur

Amritsar

Jaipur

Chennai

Hyderabad

Surat

Ranchi

Delhi

These regions have been selected for early implementation, with a nationwide expansion expected by mid-2025 across all Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) and Post Office PSKs. 

Tamil Nadu’s Early Adoption

In Tamil Nadu, the process began on March 3, 2025, with the launch of e-passport issuance at the Regional Passport Office in Chennai. According to official records, by March 22, 20,729 e-passports had already been issued in the state, reflecting a strong early response from applicants.

Is Getting an e-Passport Mandatory?

No, it is not mandatory yet. Citizens can still apply for regular passports. The e-passport is currently being offered as an enhanced alternative, with the same application process through the Passport Seva website or mobile app. Over time, as infrastructure scales up, e-passports are expected to gradually replace traditional passports.

What Is an e-Passport?

An e-passport contains a secure embedded microchip that stores the holder’s biometric data, photograph, and personal details. This data is cryptographically signed to prevent tampering or forgery, aligning India’s passport standards with those of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

What’s Next?

The government aims to make e-passports the new standard for Indian travellers by 2026, with upgrades to backend verification, border control systems, and chip-scanning infrastructure across Indian embassies and immigration desks worldwide.