India Expands Fast Track Immigration Program to 7 More Airports By Amit Shah! 

Last updated on Feb 3rd, 2025 by Neha Sharma

The Indian government has introduced a Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Program (FTI-TTP) to provide a seamless and quicker immigration clearance process for eligible travelers. Initially launched in June 2024 at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, the program is now being expanded to seven more major airports nationwide starting January 16, 2025.

Which Airports Are Included?

The program is now operational at the following airports:

• Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi (Existing)
• Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Mumbai
• Chennai International Airport
• Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport, Kolkata
• Kempegowda International Airport, Bengaluru
• Rajiv Gandhi International Airport, Hyderabad
• Cochin International Airport
• Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport, Ahmedabad

This expansion aims to provide faster immigration clearance for eligible passengers at India’s busiest airports. 

Who Can Use This Program?

Currently, the program is available for:

• Indian citizens
• Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders

In the future, the government plans to extend the service to foreign travelers, allowing a larger number of people to benefit from the quicker immigration process.

How Does It Work?

The Fast Track Immigration system is based on automated e-gates (electronic gates) that verify a traveler’s identity using biometric authentication. Here’s how the process works: 

Online Registration

• Travelers need to sign up on the official website: https://ftittp.mha.gov.in/
• They must fill in personal details and upload relevant documents like a passport and visa information.

Biometric Enrollment

After online registration, travelers must visit a designated Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or select international airports for biometric data submission (fingerprints and facial recognition).

Automated Immigration Clearance

• Upon reaching the airport, travelers can head to the designated e-gates instead of regular immigration counters.
• At the e-Gate, they will scan their passport and boarding pass.
• The system will then verify their biometric data against the records.
• Once verified, the gate opens, allowing the traveler to proceed without manual immigration clearance.

Key Benefits of the Program

The Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Program aims to reduce wait times and improve the overall travel experience. Some key benefits include:

• Quicker Immigration Processing: The use of e-gates significantly reduces waiting time at immigration counters.
• More Convenience for Frequent Travelers: Registered users can bypass long queues and proceed with minimal delays.
• Secure and Efficient: The biometric-based system ensures accuracy and security in identity verification.
• Completely Free: Enrollment and usage of the FTI-TTP are free of charge for eligible travelers.

Important Points to Keep in Mind

• Eligibility: Only Indian passport holders and OCI cardholders can currently apply.
• Passport Validity: The passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of registration.
• Membership Duration: Once registered, the membership remains valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
• More Airports May Be Added: The government plans to expand the program further based on the success of this phase.

A Step Towards Smoother Travel

With the implementation of FTI-TTP, India joins the ranks of countries offering advanced automated immigration clearance systems, similar to those in the United States, UK, Canada, and Australia. This initiative aligns with India’s efforts to modernize airport facilities and make international travel more efficient and hassle-free.

As more airports join the program, frequent travelers, business executives, and NRIs will find it easier to navigate immigration formalities, making their journeys smoother and more time-efficient.

Reference – The Hindu

Enhance your travel experience with our exclusive discounts on flights from Australia to India. Our expert team is available 24/7 to provide you with a smooth and budget-friendly booking process. Book now with MyTicketsToIndia and enjoy the best fares on your next journey!