Lightning-Fast Immigration: New Program Speeds Up Airport Checks. Details Here

The Indian government has launched the Fast Track Immigration Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi. This initiative, aimed at reducing immigration processing times from a minimum of 30 minutes to mere seconds, will soon be expanded to 20 other cities across India.

Introduced by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) on June 22, the FTI-TTP utilizes biometric technology to offer pre-verified travelers—primarily Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders—a seamless immigration experience during both departure and arrival.

“India is becoming an international destination, and this program is designed to make travel effortless for all,” stated a senior MHA official. The fast-track service will allow eligible passengers to use automated e-gates, bypassing standard immigration queues altogether.

Following its successful implementation in Delhi, where over 18,400 travelers have already registered, the program is set to roll out at seven major airports including Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad. The MHA plans to expand it to 21 airports nationwide.

How It Works

The FTI-TTP operates via an online portal managed by the Bureau of Immigration, which acts as the nodal agency for the program. After verification, passengers are added to a White List of 'Trusted Travellers' eligible for the automated gates. 

Upon arrival at the e-gates, registered passengers simply scan their boarding pass and passport. Their biometrics are authenticated, and once confirmed, the e-gate opens automatically, granting rapid immigration clearance.

Application Process

To join the program, eligible travelers must apply online at [www.ftittp.mha.gov.in](http://www.ftittp.mha.gov.in) and provide necessary details for verification. After approval, applicants will be notified to schedule an appointment for biometric submission at their nearest international airport or Foreigners Regional Registration Office.

FTI registration is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. To apply, individuals must ensure their passport has at least six months of validity remaining.

The initiative aims to reduce human intervention in the immigration process, enhancing security and efficiency. The first phase will cover Indian citizens and OCI cardholders, with plans to include foreign travelers in subsequent phases.

For assistance, the Union home ministry has established a helpdesk at india.ftittp-boi@mha.gov.in.