The Indian government has introduced a new fast-track immigration plan at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) in New Delhi, significantly reducing the immigration process time from 15-30 minutes to just a few seconds. This initiative, known as the Fast Track Immigration Trusted Travellers Programme (FTI-TTP), is set to expand to 21 additional cities across India shortly.
Overview of the FTI-TTP
Announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), the FTI-TTP employs a biometric system aimed at streamlining the immigration journey for pre-verified travelers during both arrivals and departures. Preparations are underway to extend this program to seven major airports, including Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Cochin, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad, with plans for further airports to adopt the initiative soon.
Goals of the Program
According to a senior MHA official, the program is designed to facilitate smoother international travel for Indian citizens as the country increasingly establishes itself as a global aviation hub. Eligible passengers will be able to utilize automatic gates (e-gates) instead of going through standard immigration lines. The official indicated that the initiative is expected to launch in the coming days at Mumbai, Chennai, and Kolkata airports, aimed at easing the immigration process for pre-verified Indian nationals and OCI cardholders.
Success at Delhi Airport
The FTI-TTP has already seen success at Delhi airport, with 18,400 individuals, including Indian passport holders and OCI cardholders, enrolling in the program. The FTI-TTP is implemented online, with the Bureau of Immigration acting as the nodal agency to facilitate fast-track immigration for various traveler categories. Once verified, passengers are added to a White List of ‘Trusted Travellers’ eligible for e-gate access. Information from these travelers is collected at the Foreigners Regional Registration Office or at the airport.
E-Gate Process
At the e-gates, registered passengers scan their boarding passes to retrieve flight details. Their passports are also scanned, and biometrics are authenticated. Upon confirmation of their identity, the e-gate automatically opens, granting immigration clearance.
How to Apply for FTI-TTP
Eligible individuals can apply online at www.ftittp.mha.gov.in by providing the necessary details for verification by the Bureau of Immigration. After approval, applicants will receive a notification to schedule an appointment for biometric collection at international airports or the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office.
Validity and Requirements
FTI registration is valid for a maximum of five years or until the passport expires, whichever occurs first. Applicants must provide their biometrics and ensure their passports have at least six months of validity at the time of applying for the FTI-TTP.
Conclusion
With the launch of the FTI-TTP, India is taking significant strides toward enhancing the efficiency of its immigration process, ultimately supporting its aspirations as an international aviation hub. This program promises to streamline travel for eligible passengers and improve their overall experience at airports across the nation.