NRIs Guide to Register for e-Gate at Indian Airports
Non-resident Indians (NRIs) can now expedite their immigration process at select Indian airports by utilizing the new e-Gate facility. This initiative, part of the Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP), aims to streamline the entry experience for travelers. However, it’s important to note that the Aadhaar card is not accepted as proof of address during the registration process.
Overview of the e-Gate Facility
The e-Gate system is currently operational at 13 major airports across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Kolkata, Chennai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Lucknow, Amritsar, Kochi, Kozhikode, Thiruvananthapuram, and Trichy. This facility allows pre-verified passengers to pass through immigration quickly by using self-service kiosks. Instead of waiting in long lines, travelers can scan their passports, verify their biometrics, and proceed directly through the gate. This system mirrors the experience available to Indian expatriates at airports in cities like Abu Dhabi and Dubai.
Eligibility for the e-Gate Program
The e-Gate facility is available to two categories of travelers: Indian nationals and foreign nationals holding an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card. To register for this service, applicants must provide specific documentation, as the Aadhaar card is not considered valid proof of address for NRIs. Instead, the system accepts the passport page that displays the address.
Required Documents for Registration
To successfully register for the e-Gate facility, NRIs must submit the following documents:
– Election photo identity card – Recent electricity or telephone bill (landline or post-paid mobile) dated within the last three months – Valid driving license – Copy of the spouse’s passport (if the address matches) – Copy of a parent’s passport (for applicants who are minors) – Government-issued identity document showing the current foreign address (for those residing abroad)
Steps to Register for the e-Gate Facility
1. **Visit the Official Portal**: Go to the e-Gate registration website at [https://ftittp.mha.gov.in/fti/](https://ftittp.mha.gov.in/fti/).
2. **Create an Account**: Fill in your personal details as per your passport, including your full name, date and place of birth, parents’ names, passport number, and address.
3. **Receive Application Number**: After submitting your details, a temporary application file number will be generated.
4. **Upload Required Documents**: Provide a recent passport-size photograph and scanned copies of the front and back pages of your passport showing your address. OCI card holders must also upload scanned copies of the first and last pages of their OCI card.
5. **Complete Biometrics**: After registration, you will need to provide biometrics (fingerprint and facial image) at designated international airports or at Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRRO) in major cities.
6. **Await Approval**: Once your biometrics are verified, you will receive an acknowledgment via email and SMS. The verification process can take between 10 days to one month.
Important Considerations
– Your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of application. – Membership in the e-Gate program is valid for 10 years or until your passport expires. – Ensure that your passport-size photo meets the specifications required for passport applications, including being taken within the last six months with a plain white background. – Scanned copies of your passport must be in PDF format. – Applicants holding Emigration Check Required (ECR) passports and those under seven years of age are not eligible for this facility. For those aged 7 to 18, a parent’s or guardian’s email and mobile number can be used for registration.
FAQs
What is the e-Gate facility?
The e-Gate facility allows pre-verified passengers to pass through immigration quickly using self-service kiosks, eliminating the need to stand in long queues.
Why is Aadhaar not accepted for e-Gate registration?
Aadhaar is not considered valid proof of address for NRIs during e-Gate registration. Instead, the passport page showing the address is required.
How long does the registration and approval process take?
The verification and approval process for the e-Gate registration can take anywhere from 10 days to one month.
Conclusion
The introduction of the e-Gate facility at select Indian airports offers NRIs a faster immigration experience. By following the outlined steps and ensuring the correct documentation is submitted, travelers can enjoy a more efficient entry process. For those interested, it’s advisable to begin the registration process promptly to avoid any delays.
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