A new programme aimed at expediting immigration for pre-verified Indian nationals and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders is set to roll out at major Indian airports, officials said. The Fast Track Immigration-Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP), first launched at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport on June 22, will soon be implemented in Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Cochin, and Ahmedabad.

The programme, which facilitates quicker immigration clearance through automated e-gates, has already seen 18,400 registrations at Delhi’s IGI Airport. So far, 1,500 passengers have used the e-gates for faster processing, bypassing traditional immigration queues. The FTI-TTP mirrors the United States’ Global Entry Program, offering expedited entry for pre-approved, low-risk travellers at select airports.

The expansion of the FTI-TTP to these seven airports is part of the Union Home Ministry’s initiatives in the first 100 days of the Modi 3.0 government. Over time, the programme will be extended to a total of 21 major airports across India.

How the Programme Works The FTI-TTP is designed to offer smoother, faster, and more secure immigration clearance for international travellers. Initially, it is available to Indian nationals and OCI cardholders at no charge. Eligible passengers can apply online through the government portal, www.ftittp.mha.gov.in, and submit their biometrics, including fingerprint and facial images, as part of the application process.

The programme runs on e-gates, or automated border gates, which minimize human intervention in immigration procedures. Once approved, passengers will use these e-gates to scan their boarding passes and passports. The system will then authenticate their biometrics, and if verified, the e-gates will open automatically, completing the immigration process.

FTI-TTP registration will remain valid for up to five years or until the expiry of the applicant’s passport, whichever comes first. To complete the application process, travellers must provide biometrics at designated international airports or the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO), based on a scheduled appointment.

Phased Implementation The FTI-TTP will be implemented in two phases. The first phase covers Indian citizens and OCI cardholders, while the second phase will extend the programme to foreign travellers. The overarching goal is to enhance international travel security and convenience by introducing world-class immigration facilities and reducing wait times for pre-verified passengers.

Growing Popularity Since its launch at Delhi’s IGI Airport, the FTI-TTP has garnered significant interest, with thousands of passengers opting for the service. This fast-track immigration process promises to streamline international mobility for frequent travellers and is expected to become a key feature of India’s airport infrastructure in the coming years.

The FTI-TTP’s success in Delhi has led to its expansion to seven additional airports, with officials anticipating wider implementation across India’s major aviation hubs. The programme also aims to improve passenger experience and reduce congestion at immigration counters, contributing to the overall modernization of India’s airport systems.