In a significant move to enhance international travel for Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, the Government of India is set to roll out the Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) across major airports in the country.
The programme, which promises faster, smoother, and more secure immigration clearance, was first launched at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport on June 22, and its success has paved the way for expansion to seven additional airports, including Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad.
This ambitious initiative by the Union Home Ministry underscores India’s commitment to facilitating seamless global mobility for its citizens and expatriates.
The Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme draws inspiration from the U.S. Global Entry Program, offering pre-verified, low-risk travellers the opportunity to bypass traditional immigration queues through automated e-gates. According to officials, the programme will eventually be extended to 21 major airports across India, ensuring widespread access to expedited immigration processes for a large number of travellers.
Fast Track Immigration: A Revolutionary Programme for Indian Travellers
Since its inception, the Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) has registered over 18,400 Indian nationals and OCI cardholders, with 1,500 passengers already experiencing its advantages by swiftly clearing immigration through e-gates at Delhi’s IGI Airport. The fast-track system allows travellers to apply online, submit biometric data such as fingerprints and facial images, and upon approval, enjoy the privilege of passing through immigration swiftly without the usual delays associated with manual checks.
The FTI-TTP is currently offered at no cost to Indian nationals and OCI holders, making it an attractive option for frequent international travellers. By integrating state-of-the-art biometric authentication with modern e-gates, the programme minimises human intervention, significantly speeding up the immigration process. Eligible travellers will simply scan their boarding pass and passport at the designated e-gates, undergo biometric verification, and proceed through immigration with unprecedented ease.
Expansion to Seven Major Airports
As part of the government’s broader vision, work is already underway to introduce the Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme at seven more major airports, namely Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad. This expansion is aimed at ensuring that Indian nationals and OCI cardholders across the country can access faster immigration processing, enhancing their travel experience and reducing wait times at these bustling airports.
The programme’s success at Delhi’s IGI Airport has highlighted its immense potential to transform the immigration process. With e-gates becoming the cornerstone of the system, travellers can expect an experience akin to a walk-through border clearance, significantly cutting down on the time typically spent in immigration lines.
How to Apply for Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme
Eligible passengers, including Indian nationals and OCI cardholders, can apply for the Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme through the official government portal. The application process is straightforward, requiring applicants to provide personal details, passport information, and biometric data such as fingerprints and facial images. Biometrics can be submitted either at designated international airports in India or at the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).
Applicants must ensure that their passport has a minimum validity of six months at the time of application, as the FTI-TTP registration will remain valid for a maximum of five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Once the application is approved, individuals will receive a notification to schedule an appointment for submitting their biometric data. The entire process, from application to approval, is designed to be seamless and user-friendly, reflecting the programme’s emphasis on efficiency and security.
Future Expansion and Vision
Looking ahead, the government envisions further expanding the Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme to cover foreign travellers in its second phase. By then, the system is expected to be available at 21 major airports across India, making the country a leader in efficient immigration processes for international travellers. The use of e-gates will not only expedite clearance but also enhance security by leveraging advanced biometric verification systems.
Officials have expressed their confidence in the FTI-TTP’s ability to revolutionize the way immigration is handled in India. “Our objective is to provide a world-class immigration experience for international travellers,” said an official from the Bureau of Immigration. “By implementing automated gates and biometric screening, we aim to ensure that the process is faster, smoother, and more secure for eligible travellers.”
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