India to Offer Fast-Track Immigration Clearance at 7 Major Airports

India's Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) is expanding to seven major airports, offering faster and more secure immigration clearance for pre-verified Indian nationals and OCI cardholders through e-gates.

India is gearing up to introduce a Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) across seven major airports to simplify the immigration process for pre-verified Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders.

The initiative, already launched in Delhi, will soon be available at airports in seven major Indian airports including;

1. Mumbai
2. Chennai
3. Kolkata
4. Bengaluru
5. Hyderabad
6. Cochin
7. Ahmedabad

Success in Delhi Prompts Nationwide Expansion
Launched at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport on June 22, 2023, the FTI-TTP has already seen over 18,400 registrations from Indian and OCI travelers.

Out of these, 1,500 passengers have successfully used e-gates for faster immigration clearance, reducing time spent in long queues.

Streamlining International Travel
The FTI-TTP is designed to make international travel more efficient and secure. By offering a streamlined immigration clearance process through e-gates, travelers can bypass traditional queues. This initiative is currently free of charge for Indian nationals and OCI cardholders during its initial phase.

How Does the FTI-TTP Work?
The program is similar to the Global Entry Program in the United States, allowing pre-approved, low-risk travelers to fast-track their immigration process. Indian nationals and OCI cardholders can apply online and provide their biometric data for registration.

Key points include:

• Eligibility: Open to Indian nationals and OCI cardholders in the first phase; foreign travelers will be included later.
• Application Process: Register online via www.ftittp.mha.gov.in by submitting biometric data like fingerprints and facial images.
• Validity: Registration is valid for five years or until the passport expires.
• Biometric Submission: Biometrics can be submitted at international airports or Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRROs).

Enhanced Immigration Security and Efficiency
This fast-track program not only speeds up immigration but also aims to enhance security at India’s airports by minimizing human involvement in the clearance process. The FTI-TTP will eventually be expanded to 21 airports across the country.

E-Gates Process for Registered Travelers
Once registered, travelers can proceed through designated e-gates at participating airports. The system scans the boarding pass and passport, followed by biometric authentication. If the verification is successful, the e-gate opens, completing the immigration process.

How to Register for the FTI-TTP
Eligible Indian nationals and OCI cardholders can follow these steps to register:

1. Submit the required information online at www.ftittp.mha.gov.in.
2. Await verification by the Bureau of Immigration.
3. Upon approval, make an appointment at the nearest FRRO or international airport to submit biometrics.
4. Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months when applying.

The FTI registration will remain valid until the passport expires or up to five years, whichever comes first.

Phase-wise Implementation
The program will be rolled out in two phases:

1. The first phase includes Indian nationals and OCI cardholders.
2. The second phase will extend the service to foreign nationals.

For further assistance or queries, travelers can reach out via email at india.ftittp-boi@mha.gov.in.

This innovative program is set to revolutionize travel for millions, offering smoother and more efficient immigration processes across India’s busiest airports.

Source: https://travelobiz.com/india-to-offer-fast-track-immigration-clearance-at-7-major-airports/