In a significant move to streamline the immigration process, the Indian government has launched a Fast Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. The initiative aims to reduce the completion time for immigration from a minimum of 30 minutes to mere seconds for pre-verified travellers. This programme will soon be expanded to 20 additional cities across the country.
Introduced by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on June 22, the FTI-TTP leverages biometric technology to provide a seamless experience for both departing and arriving passengers. The programme is set to be rolled out at seven major airports, including Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad, bringing the total to 21 airports nationwide.
A senior MHA official stated, "As India becomes a global destination, we are committed to enhancing the travel experience. Eligible passengers will have the opportunity to use automated gates (e-gates) and bypass standard immigration queues for a smooth journey." The programme is particularly designed for pre-verified Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, allowing them to clear immigration within seconds.
The FTI-TTP has already proven successful at Delhi airport, with approximately 18,400 individuals, including Indian passport holders and OCI cardholders, registered for the service.
How the Programme Works
Implemented through an online portal, the Bureau of Immigration serves as the nodal agency for fast-track immigration under this programme. Passengers who successfully complete the verification process are added to a White List of 'Trusted Travellers,' enabling them to use e-gates at airports.
Upon reaching the e-gates, registered passengers scan their boarding passes and passports, which then authenticate their biometrics. Once verified, the e-gate opens automatically, granting them immediate immigration clearance.
Application Process
Eligible individuals can apply online at www.ftittp.mha.gov.in by providing the necessary details for verification. After approval, applicants will receive instructions to schedule an appointment to submit their biometrics at designated international airports or the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office.
FTI registration will be valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Applicants must ensure a minimum passport validity of six months and must provide their biometrics for the application.
The programme aims to minimize human intervention in the immigration process and will be implemented in two phases. Indian citizens and OCI cardholders will be included in the first phase, followed by the inclusion of foreign nationals in the subsequent phase.
For further assistance, the Union home ministry has provided a helpdesk email: india.ftittp-boi@mha.gov.in.
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