Inp.polri.go.id - Jakarta. Indonesia has begun a phased rollout of 100% electronic passport (e-passport) issuance on Sunday (1/12/2024), marking a significant step toward modernizing its immigration system. 

“All passport applications at these 13 offices will now automatically be processed as e-passports. We aim to expand this initiative to all immigration offices across Indonesia,” Acting Director General of Immigration, Saffar M. Godam. said in a statement as quoted by antaranews.com..

Pilot locations include Soekarno-Hatta, South Jakarta, West Jakarta, Medan, Batam, Makassar, Tangerang, Surabaya, Ngurah Rai, East Jakarta, Central Jakarta, North Jakarta, and Tanjung Priok.

E-passports are embedded with an electronic chip containing biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial recognition. These features enhance security, reduce fraud, and streamline immigration processes in countries using automated systems.

“This initiative ensures Indonesia’s passports meet international standards, offering higher security and faster clearance for travelers,” Godam added. 

(mg/inp/pr/nm)