What are Biometric Passports & How to Get One?

It’s a fact that you can save a significant amount of time while you travel abroad with the help of biometric passports. With these, you no longer need to wait in queues for long periods, as it gets examined within a matter of seconds. Moreover, these are much safer options than regular passports.

It has an inbuilt RFID chip allows it to store a lot more data while maintaining the highest levels of privacy and security. These more recent generations of documents are dependable and convenient, and they offer a more simplified travel experience.

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What is a Biometric Passport?
Features of E-Passport
E-Passport Working
Apply for an e-passport
Documents Required
Know If You Have a Biometric Passport
Benefits of a Biometric Passport
Biometric Passport vs Standard Passport
Information in a Biometric Passport
Security Protocols for Biometric Passport
Challenges and Complexities
Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Biometric Passport?

A biometric passport also called an e-Passport or a digital passport contains an integrated microchip containing all of your personal data. It has the international biometric emblem at the bottom of the front cover and otherwise has the same appearance as a conventional passport.

E-Passports were introduced in 2006 to combat the growing threat of identity theft and terrorism. The data saved electronically in the passport chip is authenticated using public key infrastructure (PKI). It is expected to make it costly and impossible to fake when all security measures are properly and completely applied.

What are the Features of e-Passport?

The E-passport remains valid for 5 to 10 years and depends on the applicant's age. There are 41 security features in these passports. A few features of an e-passport are as follows:

Chip's memory will have a capacity of 64 kilobytes
Your biometric data will be kept on file in the electronic passport
The chip will have the holder's photograph and 10-finger fingerprints on it
The embossed holographic graphics on the electronic passport will change colour when moved under the light
Your demographic data will be kept on file in the electronic passport
In order to make the document more secure, your iris scans will be there
Your coloured photograph and digital signature

How Does an e-Passport Work?

A tiny silicon chip with 64 kilobytes of memory is integrated into the jacket of the e-passports. This chip contains all important security-related information, such as the applicants’ digitally signed personal information. The front and back covers of the passports are probably thicker, and reading them might take a few more seconds.

These new passports can potentially store up to 30 visits. Additionally, they will each have a distinctive digital signature that can be easily validated with a certificate.

When someone makes a passport authentication attempt with malicious intent, such as tampering with the chip, the system will be able to detect it and will fail immediately.

How to Apply for an e-Passport?

In India, microchip-based e-passports integrate cutting-edge technology into the passport booklet. The procedures listed below can be used to apply for an e-passport:

Step 1: Visit the Passport Seva website official webpage.

Step 2: If this is your first visit, select 'New User Registration'. Enter your information and validate your phone number. Current users should use their login credentials to log in.

Step 3: Finish any last-minute registration requirements, such as selecting security questions or submitting a photo.

Step 4: Choose if you want to renew your current passport or apply for a new one.

Step 5: Fill out the application form with all of the requested personal information. After uploading the necessary files, submit the form.

Step 6: Complete the online payment using a debit card, credit card, or net banking. Then, schedule a meeting at Passport Seva Kendra.

Step 7: At the Passport Seva Kendra or Passport Office, print the acknowledgement receipt or use the SMS verification.

Documents Required for an e-Passport

Category	Documents Required
Proof of Address	Aadhaar card, water bill, electricity bill, proof of gas connection, telephone bill, rent agreement, or passbook of any active bank account with a photo attached.
Proof of Birth	applicant's birth certificate from any legitimate authority, driving license, voter card, Aadhaar card, life insurance policy in the name of the applicant, transfer, matriculation, or school leaving certificate.
Having Regular Passports but are applying for Re-Issuance	Observation page Original passport ECR or non-ECR page Photocopy of the first and last page of the passport

How to Know if You Have a Biometric Passport?

Since 2010, if you've requested a new passport, it will be biometric. The front page of your passport is the ideal place to start if you're unsure. If there is a little camera-shaped mark near the bottom, your passport is biometric.

You can't even feel the ridges or lumps in a biometric passport since the technology has become so sophisticated and microscopic.

Benefits of a Biometric Passport

Besides knowing the meaning of biometric passports, one should also know its benefits. A few of the benefits of biometric passports are:

Enhanced Security Mechanisms:

Adding more security mechanisms will lessen the risk of identity fraud.

Incorporation of Biometric Data:

It incorporates biometric data like fingerprints, iris, and faces. These details aid in the identification of e-passport holders.

Detection of Fake Documents:

It aids in the discovery of fake documents by using biometrics.

Difficult to Alter or Forge:

Consequently, e-passports are exceedingly challenging to change. As a result, they limit the entry of unauthorised people into any country using false documents.

Defense of Privacy Rights:

It defends citizens' right to privacy and ensures their privacy rights are maintained by securely handling biometric data.

Chip Integrity Warning System:

If the chip is bent, the system will receive a warning and cannot authenticate the passport.

Accurate Identification:

Uses biometric data (fingerprints, iris scans, facial recognition) to identify passport holders accurately.

Prevents Unauthorised Entry:

Difficult to alter or manipulate, thereby limiting unauthorised access using false documents.

Streamlined Border Crossings:

Facilitates quicker and more efficient processing at immigration checkpoints.

Global Acceptance:

It adheres to international standards, making it widely accepted for travel across different countries.

Automation Benefits:

Enables automated border control systems to verify identities swiftly and accurately.

Future-Proof Technology:

Designed to remain effective and secure amidst technological advancements and evolving threats.

Difference Between a Biometric Passport and a Standard Passport

A biometric passport, or e-passport, integrates advanced biometric technology compared to standard passports. The table below further explains the basic differences between the two:

Basis	Biometric Passport	Standard Passport
Biometric Data	Contains biometric information such as fingerprints, iris scans, or facial recognition data embedded in a microchip. This data enhances security and aids in verifying the passport holder's identity.	Typically includes only personal information (name, date of birth, nationality, etc.) printed on the passport pages. It lacks embedded biometric data.
Security Features	Utilises advanced security mechanisms like encryption and digital signatures to protect the biometric data stored in the chip.	Relies on physical security features such as watermarks, security threads, and holograms to prevent counterfeiting but lacks the additional security provided by biometric technology.
Authentication Process	It allows for automated authentication at border control using biometric scanners, which facilitates quicker and more accurate verification of the passport holder's identity.	Requires manual inspection by immigration officers to verify the passport's authenticity and match the holder's identity against the information printed on the passport.
Global Acceptance and Standards	Adheres to international (ICAO) standards for biometric passports, ensuring interoperability and acceptance across different countries.	It may vary in format and security features across different countries, potentially leading to more scrutiny and verification requirements during international travel.
Cost and Maintenance	Generally, it is more expensive to produce due to integrating biometric technology and security measures. It also requires periodic updates and maintenance of the biometric data management systems.	It is typically less expensive to produce and maintain than biometric passports.

What Information Does a Biometric Passport Contain?

These passports enhance security and facilitate international travel by storing biometric data and other key details in a secure electronic format. The following are the details on an e-passport that you can find:

The chip will have the holder's photograph and fingerprints on it
The embossed holographic graphics on the electronic passport will change colour when moved under the light
Your biometric data
Issuance and expiry dates

Different Security Protocols for Biometric Passport

Although a biometric passport cannot be completely authenticated, it is difficult to steal, change, or fabricate because of the various security protocols and safeguards in place. Among them are the following:

Sl.No.	Security Concern	Description
1	Active Authentication (AA)	Passports with biometrics that include active authentication (AA) help to avoid passport clones.
2	Passive Authentication PA	Chip alterations are detected by passive authentication or PA.
3	Basic Access Control (BAC)	This guards the communication line that connects the e-passport reader to the passport chip.
4	Extended Access Control (EAC)	An additional security measure for fingerprint and iris scan data is called Extended Access Control (EAC).
5	Metallic Mesh	Since the passport must be opened in order to be scanned, this RF-blocking substance is integrated into the booklet to prevent "skimming" or illegal reading of the document.
6	Random UID (RUID)	The Random UID (RUID) feature prevents tracking by generating a unique UID each time the chip is accessed and permission to read the data is given.

Challenges and Complexities of Biometric Passports

These challenges underscore the complex landscape surrounding the implementation and use of biometric e-passports in modern travel systems. Follow the table below to know in details:

Challenges	Description
Cost and Infrastructure Requirements	Biometric e-passports need state-of-the-art infrastructure, cutting-edge technology, and regular maintenance to function properly.
Device Malfunctions	Biometric e-passports depend on specific equipment, such as biometric scanners and kiosks, to authenticate identities and grant travel permission. If these devices malfunction or break, biometric passports might not perform as intended.
Interoperability Problems	The ability of biometric e-passports to connect to various entry points and central ID databases is essential. Regretfully, the biometric passport's functionality may be severely compromised if there are issues with it and these access points.
Data Security	Because biometric e-passports contain extremely private biometric information, hackers and other cybercriminals may target them. Biometric usage is likely to rise in the years to come.
Privacy Concerns	Biometric e-passports store sensitive personal data, including fingerprints and facial recognition data. Privacy advocates worry about the potential misuse or unauthorised access to this information.
Technological Obsolescence	Rapid technological advancements mean that biometric systems could quickly become outdated. Keeping up with technological advancements and ensuring compatibility with future systems can take time and effort.
Cross-Border Acceptance	Biometric standards and regulations vary across countries, which can lead to cross-border acceptance and compatibility issues. Harmonising these standards globally presents a significant challenge.
User Acceptance and Familiarity	Some travellers may feel uneasy or unfamiliar with biometric technology, which could impact their willingness to adopt biometric passports. Education and awareness efforts are crucial to fostering acceptance among the public.
Maintenance and Lifecycle Management	Biometric systems require regular maintenance and updates to ensure accuracy and reliability. Managing the lifecycle of biometric passports, including renewal and replacement processes, adds complexity and logistical challenges.
Legal and Ethical Considerations	Ongoing debates exist about the ethical implications of biometric data collection and storage. Legal frameworks must address issues such as consent, data ownership, and the rights of individuals regarding their biometric information.

What are the Risks of Using a Biometric Passport?

Using a biometric passport generally entails a low risk, but there are a few considerations to keep in mind:

Privacy Concerns:

Biometric passports store personal biometric data such as fingerprints or facial scans. This data could be accessed or misused if adequate security measures are not in place.

Security Risks:

Like any electronic system, biometric passports could be vulnerable to hacking or unauthorised access. However, modern passports employ encryption and security protocols to minimise this risk.

Data Protection:

Concerns exist regarding the protection and storage of biometric data. Governments and organisations handling this data must adhere to strict regulations to safeguard against breaches.

Authentication Issues:

Although biometric authentication is generally reliable, there have been instances of false positives or negatives. This could cause inconvenience or delays for travellers.

Reliability:

The technology used in biometric passports is generally robust, but occasional technical issues or failures may affect the passport's usability.

Now that you know what a biometric passport is, you understand the significance of an e-passport for both the government and the general public. This electronic chip-embedded passport will improve security and speed up the passport verification process when travelling. Biometric passports are the future; soon, everyone will use them to their benefit, bridging the gap between technology and progress.

FAQs about Biometric Passports

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Where can one use an e-passport?

At present, one can use an e-passport in 120 different countries worldwide. They can use it as document proof and for the purpose of traveling outside the country.

Which website can one use to apply for an e-passport in India?

To apply for an e-passport, individuals need to visit the Passport Seva website. Then they need to log in with their existing ID or register themselves.

Why are passports with biometrics growing in popularity?

The use of biometric passports is rising because they facilitate quicker and more efficient check-in procedures, improve border security, and provide higher data privacy, all while increasing security and convenience for travellers.

Which nations issue passports with biometrics?

Numerous nations, including the US, the UK, Germany, Ecuador, Japan, Ghana, Australia, and others, have implemented biometric passports, streamlining immigration procedures by incorporating biometric technology.

What is a biometric passport?

A biometric passport, also known as an e-passport, contains electronic biometric information about the holder, including fingerprints, facial features, or iris patterns, alongside traditional passport data.

What are the benefits of a biometric passport?

Biometric passports enhance security by providing a more reliable way to verify the holder's identity than traditional passports. They also streamline border control processes.

What biometric data is stored in a biometric passport?

Typically, biometric passports store facial images, although some may also include fingerprints and iris scans, depending on the country's regulations and standards.

How is biometric data protected in a passport?

Biometric data in passports is encrypted and protected with security features to prevent unauthorised access.

Can biometric passports be hacked?

While no system is completely immune to hacking, biometric passports use advanced encryption and security protocols to minimise the risk. Regular updates and testing help mitigate vulnerabilities.

Do I need to provide biometric data every time I use a biometric passport?

No, biometric data is used primarily during initial enrollment and may be required during border crossings or identity verification.

Can someone steal my biometric data from my passport?

No encryption or security measures protect biometric data stored in passports. However, the physical security of the passport is essential to prevent unauthorised access or tampering.

Are biometric passports mandatory?

No, many countries have phased in biometric passports as the standard, but requirements vary globally. Check with your country's passport authority for specific regulations.

Can biometric passports malfunction?

While rare, biometric passports, like any electronic device, can experience technical issues. Most issues are resolved with re-scanning or manual verification procedures.

Can biometric passports be used for international travel?

Yes, biometric passports are designed to meet international standards and are widely accepted for travel between countries that recognise electronic passports.

How long does a biometric passport last?

The validity of a biometric passport varies by country but is typically between 5 to 10 years from the date of issuance.