Already decided which type of passport you’ll use for your international trip? Yes, it turns out there are two types of passports you can choose from: a regular passport and an electronic passport (e-passport). At first glance, they may look similar, but these two passport types differ in terms of features, functions, and advantages. Let’s break down the differences below!
Differences Between a Regular Passport and an Electronic Passport
The main difference between a regular passport and an electronic passport (e-passport) lies in the presence of an electronic chip. Although both look similar from the outside, their features, security levels, and ease of use are quite different.
A regular passport is the standard passport commonly used by Indonesians for international travel—whether for leisure, study, or official duties. It contains personal information like full name, place and date of birth, gender, and a photo of the holder. It also includes visa pages to record entry permissions to other countries. However, a regular passport does not contain an electronic chip that stores biometric data.
On the other hand, an electronic passport, commonly known as an e-passport, includes an additional feature: a small chip embedded in the passport cover. This chip stores biometric data such as a high-resolution facial image, fingerprints, and other key identity details. The chip boosts the passport’s security, making it harder to forge or misuse.
1. Electronic Chip
With a regular passport, immigration checks are fully manual—officers scan the passport’s data page using traditional methods. In contrast, an e-passport allows biometric data to be read instantly by scanning machines, making identity verification much faster and more accurate. In other words, an e-passport offers significantly stronger protection for your personal data.
2. Passport Issuance Fees
There’s a notable difference in cost. Regular passports are more affordable, while e-passports are priced higher due to the added chip and advanced security systems. However, the higher cost is a worthwhile investment considering the benefits you get, especially for frequent international travel.
3. Immigration Process at the Airport
Another major difference is felt during the immigration process at the airport. Regular passport holders must go through manual checks by officers, which can take longer—especially when lines are long. Meanwhile, e-passport holders can use e-gates, which are automated immigration lanes found at many major airports, like Soekarno-Hatta. At e-gates, biometric verification takes just seconds, making immigration quicker and more efficient.
4. Visa-Free Access to Certain Countries
One of the biggest advantages of an e-passport is access to more visa-free or visa waiver destinations. For instance, Japan offers a 15-day visa waiver for Indonesian e-passport holders who have registered their passport with the Japanese embassy. In contrast, regular passport holders still need to apply for a visa, which takes extra time and money.
Countries That Offer Visa-Free Entry with an E-Passport
A major perk of e-passports is easier access to several countries without the hassle of applying for a visa in advance. Some of the countries that offer visa-free or visa waiver access for Indonesian e-passport holders include:
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Japan: 15-day visa waiver with prior registration.
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Singapore: Visa-free for short visits.
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Malaysia: Visa-free for tourism and business trips.
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Hong Kong: Visa-free for up to 30 days.
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Macau: Visa-free for up to 30 days.
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South Korea: Certain visa-free programs for special events using e-passports.
The difference between regular and e-passports is particularly noticeable when traveling to Asian countries that offer easier entry with e-passports.
Requirements for Making an Electronic Passport
If you want to apply for an electronic passport (e-passport), here are the documents you’ll need:
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A valid electronic National ID (KTP).
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An up-to-date Family Card (KK).
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A birth certificate or other documents that state your place and date of birth, and your parents’ names (such as a diploma or marriage certificate).
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Your old passport (if you're renewing).
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A completed application form, which can be filled out via the M-Paspor app.
Important note: E-passports can currently only be issued at select immigration offices that have e-passport printing facilities. Be sure to check the location before applying.
Use Magic Scan to Prepare Your Documents
Whether you’re applying for a regular or electronic passport, make sure your documents are clear and easy to read. Even small issues with blurry scans can delay your application process.
To avoid that, you can use Magic Scan from VIDA Sign.
Advantages of Magic Scan:
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Easily accessible via smartphone
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High-quality scan results
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PDF file format ready to upload
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Can scan up to 15 documents at once
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Automatic document detection
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Auto crop and auto adjust for neat results
With Magic Scan, your scanned KTP, KK, or birth certificate will be neat, immigration-standard, and ready to upload through the M-Paspor app. No need to worry about blurry scans or making multiple trips to the immigration office due to unclear documents!
Choosing between a regular passport and an e-passport depends on your travel needs. If you travel frequently and want easier access to multiple countries, an e-passport is definitely the better option. Regardless of which type you choose, make sure your documents are well-prepared. Use Magic Scan by VIDA Sign to make your scanning process faster, safer, and hassle-free!
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