5 Key Differences Between Regular and Electronic Passport

TEMPO.CO, Jakarta - A passport is a crucial document issued by a country to enable its citizens to travel abroad for a specific period. There are two types of passports, regular passports and electronic passports (e-passports).

Although both passports serve the same primary function, they differ in features, costs, and benefits. One of the main differences is the presence of a biometric chip in the electronic passport, making it safer and easier to use in certain countries.

As reported by Antara, electronic passports offer several advantages over regular passports, including easier visa acquisition and enhanced data security. However, cost and procedural differences should be carefully considered before choosing between a regular and an electronic passport.

According to the Imigrasi website, here are five differences between regular passports and electronic passports based on information from the immigration website.

1. Form and Content

Regular passports only contain the owner's data in written form and a photo. Meanwhile, electronic passports have a biometric chip that stores the passport holder's data, including fingerprints and facial photos, making it more secure against forgery.

2. Travel Facilities Abroad

Regular passports do not have visa-free facilities. On the other hand, electronic passports receive the privilege of visa-free or visa waiver to Japan for tourism, business, family visits, friend visits, or other short visits for 15 days with a validity period of 3 years or until the passport expiration date after registration at the Japanese Embassy.

3. Production Costs

Based on the regulations outlined in Government Regulation Number 45 of 2024 regarding Types and Tariffs for Non-Tax State Revenues Applicable at the Ministry of Law and Human Rights, the cost of making a passport varies based on the passport's validity period.

• Non-Electronic Regular Passport

Longest Validity Period 5 Years Rp350,000

Longest Validity Period 10 Years Rp650,000

• Electronic Passport

Longest Validity Period 5 Years Rp650,000

Longest Validity Period 10 Years Rp950,000

• Same-Day Passport Expedited Service Rp 1,000,000

The cost of an e-passport is higher due to additional security chip technology.

4. Immigration Convenience

Regular passports cannot be used in automatic immigration lanes and will undergo manual inspections. Meanwhile, electronic passport holders can pass through immigration checks more quickly using e-gates in countries with automated immigration systems.

5. Security

Regular passports are considered secure but vulnerable to identity fraud. On the other hand, electronic passports are considered more secure and difficult to forge due to the biometric data stored digitally in a chip.

These differences highlight that electronic passports offer greater advantages over regular passports, particularly in security and travel convenience to certain countries.

However, the higher production cost may be a consideration. For those who frequently travel abroad, especially to countries that offer special benefits for e-passport holders, opting for an electronic passport can be a more advantageous choice.