Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP)

GS 2 – GOVERNANCE

Context: The Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) was launched to enhance immigration clearance for Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders, ensuring a streamlined and secure international travel experience.

Objective and Vision

  • Primary Goal: To simplify and expedite immigration processes while maintaining security.
  • ‘Viksit Bharat @2047’: Aligns with India’s vision to upgrade travel infrastructure and achieve developed nation status by 2047.
  • Global Standards: Elevates Indian airports to international benchmarks for fast-track immigration.

Key Features and Process

  1. Nodal Agency: Bureau of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs.
  2. Registration: Travellers must register via an online portal and upload required documents.
  3. Biometric Verification: Conducted at foreign registration offices or airports to verify identity.
  4. Automated Clearance: Verified passengers can use e-gates for automated immigration processing.
  5. Free Service: Initially available without any charges for eligible participants.

Phases of Implementation

  • Phase 1:
    • Covers Indian nationals and OCI cardholders.
    • Implemented at seven major airports: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad.
  • Phase 2:
    • Expands to include foreign nationals.
    • Rollout planned at 21 major airports across India.

Global Fast-Track Immigration Programs

  1. United States:
    • Global Entry Programme (2008): Expedites immigration for low-risk travellers from selected countries, including India.
  2. United Kingdom:
    • Registered Traveller Service (2015): Allows frequent travellers from certain nations, including India, to use e-gates at airports.
  3. European Union:
    • Smart Borders Initiative (2016): Introduced biometric-based Entry/Exit System (EES) for improved border checks.
  4. Australia:
    • SmartGate System (2007): Uses automated kiosks to verify identity through passport scans and facial recognition.
  5. Saudi Arabia:
    • Smart Travel System (2019): Biometric-based expedited clearance, especially beneficial during high-traffic events like Hajj.

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