A new initiative aimed at expediting the immigration process for pre-verified Indian nationals and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders is set to be implemented in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, and four additional major airports across the nation, as announced by officials on Wednesday. This Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) was initially introduced at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi on June 22. To date, approximately 18,400 individuals, comprising both Indian citizens and OCI cardholders, have enrolled in this service.Efforts are currently underway to extend the FTI-TTP to seven more significant airports, including Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad. This information was shared by officials who highlighted the various initiatives undertaken by the Union home ministry during the first 100 days of the Modi 3.0 administration. The expansion of this programme reflects the government’s commitment to enhancing the efficiency of immigration processes.
FTI-TTP is designed to facilitate quicker immigration clearance, and thus far, around 1,500 passengers have successfully utilized the e-gate system for expedited processing at the Delhi airport. This advancement not only streamlines the travel experience for eligible individuals but also underscores the government’s focus on improving infrastructure and services for international travelers.The program is designed to speed up immigration processing, and so far, 1,500 travelers have successfully used the e-gates in Delhi. Officials mentioned that the FTI-TTP aims to enhance international travel by providing quicker, easier, and more secure immigration checks. Initially, this service is available for Indian citizens and OCI cardholders at no cost.The FTI-TTP is comparable to the Global Entry Program in the United States, which offers fast clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers arriving at certain airports. This similarity highlights the program’s goal of making travel more efficient for eligible individuals. Eventually, the FTI-TTP will be implemented at 21 major airports across the country. It is intended to provide a faster, smoother, and safer immigration experience for international travelers. Those who qualify will be able to use e-gates, allowing them to skip the regular immigration lines for a more seamless travel experience.Individuals who qualify must apply online and provide their biometrics, including fingerprints and a facial image, along with other necessary information as outlined in the application form.
The FTI registration is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever happens first. Travelers can access this service by applying through the government website www.ftittp.mha.gov.in and submitting the required information, which will be verified by the Bureau of Immigration. Applicants can give their biometrics at specific international airports in India or at the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) based on a scheduled appointment. The program will utilize e-gates or automated border gates to reduce human involvement in the immigration process.The aim of this initiative is to simplify and secure international travel by creating top-notch immigration facilities that offer a faster immigration route for travelers using automated gates. When a registered passenger arrives at the e-gates, they will scan their boarding pass to retrieve flight details. Their passport will also be scanned, and their biometrics will be verified at the e-gates. Once their identity is confirmed and biometric checks are complete, the e-gate will automatically open, allowing for smooth immigration clearance.
