Indians living in UAE will now be able to apply for chip-enabled e-passports. This move is being considered a major change towards a secure, fast and technology-based travel identification system.
Add informalnewz.com as a Preferred Source
E-Passport: Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has launched a modern passport system for Indians living in the United Arab Emirates (UAE). A new, advanced passport will now be implemented for NRIs in Dubai, featuring a chip. This chip will store all the passport holder’s information. This is considered a significant step towards strengthening passport security. Let’s explore how this system will work and how to apply for this new passport.
The Indian Embassy in Abu Dhabi has launched a modern passport system, effective October 28th. Following this, all Indian citizens in the UAE will be issued e-passports with embedded chips. These e-passports will be technologically advanced and applications can be made through an online portal. The Government of India has formally implemented the chip-based e-passport process in the UAE. The e-passports issued under GPSP 2.0 will have a high-security micro-chip, which will securely store the digital data of the holder.
What will happen to old passports?
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) has also clarified that old regular passports will remain fully valid for the time being. Holders will continue to use their old passports for the duration of their existing validity period. Users do not need to replace them immediately. New passports will be made available to users in a phased manner.
What is the new e-passport and its benefits?
An e-passport is a document similar to a traditional passport, albeit in paper form. However, it contains a radio frequency identification (RFID) chip and an antenna. This chip stores the passport holder’s personal details and biometric data. A small gold symbol is printed at the bottom of the e-passport cover, indicating its electronic form. Furthermore, the passport numbering system has also changed. The new passports will have a sequence of two letters followed by six digits, compared to the old passports’ sequence of one letter and seven digits.
The chip in the new passports allows for quick and secure verification of passport identity globally. This means verification will be faster than before and holder information will be more secure. Applicants will now be able to upload their photo, signature, and required documents online through the Passport Seva Program (PSP) portal. This will reduce congestion and wait times at BLS International centers.
How to Apply for an e-Passport
- First, visit portal.passportindia.gov.in. You will see the Register Now button on the home page. Click on it.
- Fill in your registration details and complete the registration. Now, go to Login and log in with your registered ID and password.
- Next, go to the Applicant Home Page and create a new application.
- A form will open. Fill in all the required information. Then, click Submit. Now, print the submitted form.
- Book an appointment through the link shared here and visit the relevant BLS International center with the required documents.
Read More: E-Passport launched in India, know complete information including eligibility and application
