A new Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) is set to be implemented at seven major airports across India. This initiative aims to streamline the immigration process for pre-verified Indian nationals and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders. Airports in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad will soon be part of this programme, officials announced on Wednesday.
The FTI-TTP was first launched at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport on June 22, 2023, where it has already seen 18,400 registrations from Indian and OCI travellers. Notably, 1,500 passengers have successfully benefited from the expedited clearance through e-gates since the programme’s inception. By providing a faster and more secure immigration process, the FTI-TTP is designed to enhance the overall travel experience. Similar to the Global Entry Program in the United States, which allows pre-approved low-risk travellers to bypass standard immigration queues, the FTI-TTP aims to create a seamless journey for passengers. Initially offered free of charge for Indian nationals and OCI cardholders, the programme is expected to make international travel smoother and more efficient.
Open to Indian nationals and OCI cardholders in the first phase, with plans to extend to foreign travellers in the second phase. Eligible individuals must apply online through the designated government portal, submitting biometric data such as fingerprints and facial images. Registrations are valid for up to five years or until passport expiry, whichever comes first. Applicants must provide their biometrics at specified international airports or Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRROs) by appointment. The programme’s objective is to bolster international travel security and convenience by establishing world-class immigration facilities. Eventually, the FTI-TTP is anticipated to expand to 21 major airports across India. Upon reaching the e-gates, travellers will have their boarding passes and passports scanned, followed by biometric authentication. Once successfully verified, the e-gate will open, completing the immigration process.
This initiative reflects a commitment to improving the travel experience for millions while also contributing to the sustainability of airport operations. By reducing the time spent in immigration lines, the FTI-TTP is expected to lower energy consumption and decrease the carbon footprint associated with long queues and waiting times.
