Foreign Minister Unveils Passport Seva 2.0: Here’s What It Offers

New Delhi (The Uttam Hindu): Until a few years ago, holding a passport was considered a privilege, mostly reserved for those undertaking international air travel. However, in today’s rapidly evolving landscape, passports have become a common and essential document—serving not just as a travel credential but also as a key identity and residence proof. With this rising demand, the government has taken a major step forward by launching Passport Seva 2.0, introducing e-passports embedded with security chips.
On the occasion of the 13th Passport Seva Divas celebrated on 24 June 2025, External Affairs Minister Dr. S. Jaishankar officially launched the next phase of passport modernization with Passport Seva 2.0, a major digital upgrade under the Passport Seva Programme.
Greetings to all Passport Authorities in India and abroad on the occasion of the 13th Passport Seva Divas.
— Dr. S. Jaishankar (@DrSJaishankar) June 24, 2025
Your commendable efforts, guided by ‘Seva, Sushasan and Garib Kalyan’, are instrumental to ensuring ease of travel, deepening access to global workplace and empowering the… pic.twitter.com/pDn53sjyyJ
What is Passport Seva 2.0?
The initiative aims to streamline the passport issuance process, improve data security, and enhance user convenience. A key highlight of the initiative is the rollout of e-passports, which are equipped with an embedded electronic chip and are tamper-proof. These passports comply with ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) standards, ensuring global validity and recognition.
Key Benefits of e-Passport:
Faster immigration clearance at international airports.
Enhanced security, with biometric and personal data securely stored in the chip.
Global acceptance, meeting ICAO standards.
Protection against forgery and tampering, thanks to chip-based encryption.
Police Verification Made Easy
One of the major bottlenecks in the passport issuance process has been police verification, especially for applicants in rural or remote areas. Addressing this issue, the Ministry of External Affairs has launched the mPassport Police App, which enables digital and time-bound verification. With this app, police verification can now be completed within 5 to 7 days, significantly reducing the wait time.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for an e-Passport:
1. Visit the official website: passportindia.gov.in
2. Register with your name, date of birth, and phone number (if you're a new user), then log in.
3. Click on the e-Passport option and fill in the required personal and travel details.
4. Choose your nearest Passport Seva Kendra (PSK) or Post Office PSK (POPSK) for appointment.
5.Pay the passport fee using UPI, credit/debit card, or net banking.
Select your preferred appointment date and time.
1. Visit the selected PSK/POPSK with all necessary documents. Biometrics and document verification will be done on-site.
2. Once the process is complete, the passport will be delivered to your registered address via post within a few days.
With Passport Seva 2.0, India has taken a significant step towards a smarter, faster, and more secure passport ecosystem—making global travel easier for millions of its citizens.