Fast Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Programme launched – no more queues for international air travelers
New Delhi: On Saturday, India launched a facility to fast-track the immigration process at airports for pre-verified Indian nationals and people of Indian origin holding Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cards. The Fast Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) was inaugurated by Home Minister Amit Shah at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. This service will be available free of cost for all eligible passengers.
Key Features of the Fast Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Programme
- Online Application: Eligible individuals need to apply online and submit their biometrics (fingerprint and facial image) along with other required information specified in the application form.
- Biometric Submission: Upon approval, applicants will be prompted to schedule an appointment for biometric submission at designated international airports in India or the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).
- Verification and E-Gates: After verification, a whitelist of trusted travellers will be generated for implementation through e-gates, or automated border gates, minimizing human intervention in the immigration clearance process.
- Validity: The registration will be valid until the passport’s expiry or for five years, whichever comes first, and can be renewed thereafter.
Expansion and Implementation
The programme, initially covering Delhi, will be rolled out to seven major airports, including Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kochi, and Ahmedabad. It will later expand to 21 airports across the country. The Delhi airport, owned by the GMR Group, has already equipped its Terminal 3 with eight electronic gates—four for arrivals and four for departures—to facilitate fast-track immigration under this process.
Benefits of the Programme
The Fast Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Programme aims to offer faster, smoother, and safer immigration clearance for international travellers. By using e-gates, Indian passport holders and OCI cardholders can bypass regular emigration/immigration queues and enjoy a more efficient travel experience.
Important Details for Applicants
- Eligibility: The programme is available for pre-verified Indian nationals and OCI cardholders.
- Application Process: Ensure the passport is valid for at least six months when applying. Accurate residential address information is crucial to avoid application rejection.
- Verification: Successful registration requires mobile OTP and email verification to authenticate identity.
- Support: The Union Home Ministry has provided a support help desk email for any inquiries at india.ftittp-boi@mha.gov.in.
Future Prospects
In its second phase, the programme will also cover foreign travellers, enhancing travel convenience and security on a global scale.
Delhi Airport’s CEO, Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, stated, “The Trusted Traveller programme allows Indian passport holders and OCI cardholders to utilize these e-gates, bypass regular emigration/immigration queues, and enjoy a smoother journey.” The airport may increase the number of counters based on demand to further streamline the process.
Conclusion
The Fast Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Programme is a significant step towards improving the travel experience for Indian nationals and OCI cardholders. With its implementation, passengers can expect reduced wait times and a more efficient immigration process at major airports across India.
