KNOW EVERYTHING ABOUT UNIVERSAL TRAVEL PASS

“It’s not about what you need; it’s about what your family needs if you’re not there.”

The COVID-19 pandemic brought about unprecedented changes, with lockdown restrictions disrupting lives and industries worldwide. In India, sectors such as food, hospitality, and entertainment faced severe setbacks, and the travel industry was among the hardest hit. Both businesses and individuals struggled due to restricted mobility, whether for work or personal reasons.

 

 

However, with vaccination drives gaining momentum, the government introduced a game-changing solution: the Universal Travel Pass. This pass provided a safe and hassle-free way to travel locally and intercity, enabling a gradual revival of the travel industry. Let’s explore what the Universal Travel Pass is, its features, and how it works.

What is a Universal Travel Pass?

The Universal Travel Pass is a QR code-enabled electronic pass designed for fully vaccinated individuals. It allows seamless travel across public transport systems and access to public spaces like offices, malls, and railway stations. Initially launched by the Maharashtra State Disaster Management Authority for local trains and metros, the initiative was later adopted by the Central Government for citizens nationwide.

The pass enables unrestricted travel for fully vaccinated individuals, helping authorities manage COVID-19 restrictions more effectively while ensuring safety.

Key Features of the Universal Travel Pass

The Universal Travel Pass includes essential details about the pass-holder, such as:

• Name, age, and gender of the pass-holder
• Photo and QR code setup
• Travel category level (1 to 5, based on restrictions)
• Beneficiary ID
• Dates of the first and second vaccination doses

This pass provides unrestricted access to public transport and public places based on the holder’s travel category and vaccination status.

How to Apply for a Universal Travel Pass?

Applying for the Universal Travel Pass is simple and open to all citizens who are:

• Fully vaccinated (14 days after the second dose)
• Aged 18 or above

Steps to Apply:

1. Visit the official Universal Travel Pass application portal.
2. Enter your registered mobile number and verify with the OTP.
3. Your vaccination details will appear on the screen.
4. Upload a recent photograph and select "Generate Pass."
5. The pass will be available for download within 48 hours.

The pass can be saved as a soft copy or printed for convenience.

Documents Required for Universal Travel Pass

For individual applicants:

• Aadhaar card
• Voter ID
• Registered mobile number

For business establishments in medical, utilities, or educational sectors:

• Company registration certificate
• Industrial papers

Application Levels of the Universal Travel Pass

The pass has five levels of travel categories, designed to align with restrictions in cities or regions:

1. Level 1: Essential services (medical, utilities)
2. Level 2: Moderate restrictions
3. Level 3: Restricted travel
4. Level 4: Stricter restrictions
5. Level 5: Unrestricted travel

Travelers can access public transport based on the restriction level of their city. For example, a person with a Level 3 pass can only travel when restrictions are at Level 3 or lower.

Benefits of the Universal Travel Pass

• Hassle-free Travel: QR code simplifies verification.
• Safety: Ensures travel for fully vaccinated individuals only.
• Convenience: Easily accessible online application and downloads.
• Time-saving: No need for physical verification of vaccination status.

Limitations of the Universal Travel Pass

• The pass is only valid for travel within India.
• For international travel, a separate COVID-19 vaccination certificate and travel insurance are required.

In Summary

The Universal Travel Pass is a government initiative aimed at facilitating safe and unrestricted travel during the pandemic. It ensures seamless movement for vaccinated individuals across the country, helping people navigate the challenges posed by COVID-19.

While it is a game-changer for local and intercity travel, remember that this pass does not apply to international journeys. For global travel, a vaccination certificate and appropriate travel insurance are mandatory.

Universale Travel Pass- FAQs

Q1. Does the QR code on the Universal Travel Pass certify travel eligibility?
Yes, the QR code is verified by public transport authorities for safe and hassle-free travel during the pandemic.

 

Q2. Is travel with the Universal Travel Pass restricted by levels?
Yes, travel is permitted based on the restriction levels in your city. For example, a Level 3 pass-holder can only travel in areas under Level 3 or lower restrictions.

 

Q3. Is there customer support for issues during the online application?
Yes, you can contact the support team through the Universal Travel Pass portal for assistance.