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International travel is about to get a major upgrade for Indians and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders. Imagine walking through the airport, skipping long queues, and clearing immigration within seconds; no lines, no questions, no waiting. That is now possible thanks to the new Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) launched by the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Government of India. Passengers can now enjoy a seamless, largely digital immigration experience. The system uses biometric verification through facial recognition and fingerprints, letting travellers bypass traditional immigration counters. The first e-gates in India to facilitate expedited immigration for Indian nationals & OCI cardholders by way of the newly launched Fast Track Immigration Program have been inaugurated in #Delhi – @DelhiAirport. I signed up for it. Step by step guide in tweet ? #AvGeek#PaxEx https://t.co/aMarEn9EeR pic.twitter.com/tDDG8iPCIY — VT-VLO (@Vinamralongani) June 22, 2024 While it may sound like a VIP perk, it is actually a smart, modern way to make travel faster, safer, and more convenient for everyone. How It Works To use this facility, passengers first need to register online at ftittp.mha.gov.in. Once registered, travellers must lock their biometric details at an immigration office desk during a prior visit. After verification, the system allows them to pass through immigration using e-gates at participating airports without human intervention. The whole registration and verification process can take 15 to 30 days, so planning ahead is essential. Once approved, travellers just scan their boarding pass and passport at the e-gate. Biometric authentication happens automatically, and the gate opens, granting immigration clearance in seconds. Airports Covered FTI-TTP is currently operational at seven airports: Bengaluru (Kempegowda International Airport Terminal 2), Hyderabad, Cochin, Chennai, Mumbai, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad. It was first introduced at Indira Gandhi International Airport Terminal 3, New Delhi, last year. Over time, the initiative will expand to cover 21 major airports across India under the Viksit Bharat @2047 vision. Timing and Check-In Passengers can still check in according to their airline’s rules, but it is recommended to complete the online registration well in advance. By registering ahead, travellers save valuable time at immigration, effectively making long waits a thing of the past. The biometric verification at the airport is quick, letting travellers reach the boarding gate faster and with less stress. Benefits of FTI-TTP According to a PIB release, the main goal of FTI-TTP is to provide world-class immigration facilities. Initially, the program is free for Indian citizens and OCI cardholders. Using the e-gates improves efficiency, reduces crowding, and ensures a secure process with biometric authentication. For frequent flyers, it is a game-changer, especially during peak travel seasons. By adopting this digital-first system, India is aligning itself with global best practices in airport management. Travellers no longer need to worry about delays at immigration, giving them more time to relax before flights or catch connecting services. With this initiative, international air travel for Indians is entering a new era: fast, smooth, and hassle-free.
