Cochin International Airport rolls out fast-track Immigration; complete process in 20 seconds

CIAL Launches Fast-Track Immigration with Biometric Technology for Seamless Travel.

Expert Analysis:

• Fast-Track Immigration Program Launch: Cochin International Airport (CIAL) launched the Fast-Track Immigration (FTI) program in collaboration with the Ministry of Home Affairs.

• Biometric Technology for Quick Processing: The program uses biometric technology to complete immigration in 20 seconds for Indian citizens and Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholders .

• Free Service for Indian Citizens and OCI Holders: Travellers can avail the service for free initially after one-time registration via the Ministry's portal.

• Biometric Enrolment Setup: Biometrics (facial and fingerprint) enrolment is set up at CIAL’s FRRO office and immigration counters.

• Biometric E-Gates for Efficient Processing: Eight biometric e-gates (four each in arrival and departure areas) have been installed for fast processing.

• Implementation Across Major Airports: The system is also operational at six other major airports, including Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad.

• Digi-Yatra for Seamless Boarding: Digi-Yatra, a system for seamless boarding of domestic passengers, is already in operation at CIAL.