The Union Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has announced an expansion of its special fast-track immigration program, originally launched at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in Delhi, to include 21 additional major airports across India. This initiative aims to streamline the immigration process for pre-verified Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders.
Background of the Program
The Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) was first implemented at IGI Airport on June 22. Following its successful launch, the MHA has been working on extending the program to other major airports, including those in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad. The full rollout is expected to be completed soon.
This expansion is part of the MHA’s agenda under the first 100 days of the Modi 3.0 government, aimed at enhancing travel experiences and improving operational efficiency at key civil aviation facilities.
Benefits of the FTI-TTP
The FTI-TTP is designed to provide faster immigration clearance, ensuring a more efficient process for travelers. According to officials, approximately 18,400 individuals, comprising Indian citizens and OCI cardholders, have registered for the program. Notably, around 1,500 passengers have already experienced expedited clearance through the e-gates at IGI Airport.
The program draws parallels with the United States’ Global Entry Program, which allows low-risk travelers to enjoy fast-tracked immigration processing upon arrival at select U.S. airports. This approach facilitates international mobility by offering a seamless transition through customs and immigration checkpoints.
How the Program Works
Eligible passengers can utilize e-gates, bypassing traditional immigration queues for a more streamlined experience. To gain access to these e-gates, travelers must scan their boarding passes and undergo biometric authentication. The process is straightforward:
Upon arrival at the e-gate, registered passengers scan their airline-issued boarding pass, which provides flight details.
Their passports are then scanned, followed by biometric verification.
Once their identity is confirmed, the e-gate opens automatically, granting them immigration clearance.
Application Process
Interested individuals can apply for the FTI-TTP through the official government website: www.ftittp.mha.gov.in. The application process requires the submission of essential details, which are subsequently verified by the Bureau of Immigration.
Upon approval, applicants must schedule an appointment to provide their biometric data, which can be done at designated international airports or the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).
Conclusion
The expansion of the Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme marks a significant step towards enhancing the efficiency of immigration processing in India. By facilitating quicker and more secure immigration clearances, the MHA aims to improve the travel experience for Indian nationals and OCI cardholders alike. As more airports implement this program, the hope is that it will not only streamline operations but also contribute to a more welcoming environment for international travelers.
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