The Indian government is set to revolutionize the immigration process at airports with the introduction of the Fast-Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP). Designed to reduce the time spent on immigration from a minimum of 30 minutes to mere seconds, this initiative is currently operational at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi and will soon expand to 20 additional cities across the country.
What is the Fast-Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Programme?
Launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on June 22, the FTI-TTP utilizes biometric technology to create a seamless travel experience for pre-verified passengers during both departure and arrival. The goal is straightforward: to facilitate international mobility and ensure a smooth, efficient immigration process.
A senior MHA official stated, “India is becoming an international destination, and this program aims to make the travel experience seamless and effortless for all.” Eligible passengers, including Indian passport holders and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, will have access to automated e-gates, allowing them to bypass traditional immigration queues.
The FTI-TTP is not limited to Delhi. The program is set to expand to seven major airports: Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad, with plans to implement it at 21 airports across India soon. This expansion underscores the government’s commitment to enhancing the travel experience for both domestic and international passengers.
How Does the FTI-TTP Work?
The implementation of the FTI-TTP is facilitated through an online portal managed by the Bureau of Immigration, the nodal agency responsible for fast-tracking various categories of travelers. Here’s how the process unfolds:
- Application Process: Eligible individuals can apply online at: https://ftittp.mha.gov.in/fti/. After verification, applicants are added to a White List of ‘Trusted Travellers.’
- Biometric Verification: Passengers must provide their biometrics at designated locations, such as international airports or the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office.
- Seamless Travel at E-Gates: Upon arrival at the e-gates, passengers scan their boarding passes and passports. Their biometrics are authenticated, and if everything checks out, the e-gate opens automatically, granting immigration clearance.
The registration for the FTI-TTP is valid for up to five years or until the expiration of the passport, whichever comes first. Notably, the program aims to minimize human intervention in the immigration process, enhancing both speed and security.
The Impact of the Program
So far, the FTI-TTP has seen positive outcomes at the Delhi airport, with over 18,400 individuals registering for the program. Officials anticipate that the initiative will not only streamline immigration processes but also bolster India’s position as a global travel hub.
What’s next?
The FTI-TTP will roll out in two phases. The first phase will cover Indian citizens and OCI cardholders, while foreigners will be incorporated in the subsequent phase. This structured approach allows for careful monitoring and adjustment of the program based on initial outcomes.
As India positions itself as an international travel destination, the introduction of the FTI-TTP marks a significant step forward in modernizing immigration processes. By leveraging technology and minimizing traditional bureaucratic hurdles, the government aims to provide a more efficient and user-friendly experience for all travelers.
With plans for expansion already underway, the FTI-TTP promises to make air travel in India more seamless, reinforcing the country’s commitment to enhancing international mobility.
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