A modern passport
for a modern life
Follow Susan's life and discover the evolution of passports throughout the decades
1994
2008
2012
2018
2020
2024
2030
1994Susan’s first steps in the world of travel
2008Adding Susan’s biometrics in her electronic passport
2012Susan’s smooth passenger journey
2018Susan’s modern, fraud-proof passport
2020Bespoke passport services
2024The power of passports
2030Susan uses her digital travel identity
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1994Passport: the key to international travel
One billion people* traveled by plane between 1950 and 1990. Global economic growth, the development of tourism and globalization largely contributed to this significant peak in air traffic.
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A passport certifies the holder's identity and nationality, and entitles them to cross foreign borders under its protection. In the 1990s air travel was considered a luxury and passports were rare.
Since the 90s we have advanced in leaps and bounds. Today, the passport application process is easy, fast and convenient. And despite the occasional glitch, most administrations have made substantial progress in the last 25 years. In 1994, applying for a passport could take up to two months, from the moment you applied to the delivery of your travel document.
* Source: IATA![]()
2008Making passports electronic for increased security
In the early 2000s, transport and in particular air transport had set up new security regulations to help counter terrorism.
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Tracing passengers and their identity became crucial for all states. In addition, the democratization of low-cost companies entering the market led to a significant rise in the number of travelers. In 2005, the ICAO recommended that all passports should be electronic in order to have an additional layer of security and allow machine readability for more convenience. Today, ePassports have become increasingly popular. 85% of all passports issued are electronic.![]()
2012eGates at airports for passenger flow facilitation
Over the 2010s, air travel increased on average by 6% per year*. By 2037, an estimated 8.2 billion travelers** will be visiting the world. Faced with the growing number of passengers, it was necessary for airports to facilitate the passenger flow and organize faster boarding.
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Airports also had to manage the risks associated with traveler movements such as identity theft and terrorism. Thanks to the electronic chip in ePassports, travelers could go through eGates securely, smoothly and quickly. * Source: ICAO
** Source: IATA![]()
2018The fight against fraud
Passport fraud implies serious threats for a country and can lead to the development of additional criminal activities. In 2018, INTERPOL estimated that there were approximately 84 million lost and stolen travel documents. Fraudsters are more and more tech-savvy and have access to high-end equipment.
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To fight against fraud, governments need to ensure that they are always one step ahead.![]()
2020Bespoke passport services
In today’s society, consumers are used to instantaneous services tailored to their needs. They do not like to wait and prefer a customized approach. Consequently, when dealing with the new generation of citizens, governments need to adapt and modernize their infrastructure.
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Many countries offer a fast track passport service, enabling citizens to receive their passports quickly (for example twelve hours instead of the current five days).![]()
2024The power of passports
In 2020, the world was impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic that resulted in a significant decrease in international travel. Thankfully, the world is once again open and air traffic is slowly recovering. We are back on track for steady growth in international air travel.
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The role of passports has never been so important; not only is it a travel document, but it also represents freedom of movement for citizens.
All passports are different and are ranked depending on the number of countries they provide access to without a visa.![]()
2030Digital travel identity
Smartphones have become our everyday digital companion. And many people can’t wait to use the convenience of a smartphone app to travel.
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In 2030, Digital Travel Credentials (DTC) have been democratized. This digital identity is stored in the citizen’s smartphone and is derived from their ePassport (linked to biometric data). The physical document is still mandatory, as travelers need to have it with them when crossing borders. This will remain the case until we have transitioned to a full digital travel ecosystem.
what susan sees
behind the scenes
- 1pages1pages
Machine Readable Zone (MRZ)The Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) contains personal data (passport number, name, surname and issuance date) which is standardized by the ICAO. This MRZ is checked by controllers using a scanner. Today, this can even be done using smartphones, allowing faster data processing and greater accuracy.
International technical specifications for passports by ICAOPassports follow strict regulations. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is in charge of standardizing the technical features of passports (portrait and personal data of the holder). IDEMIA participates in the ICAO committees and therefore plays a significant role in defining standards.
The ISO / CEI7810 normISO sets up rules related to the format of passports. As an example, under the ISO/CEI7810 norm, all passports must be 125 mm long and 88 mm wide.
Machine Readable Zone (MRZ)The Machine Readable Zone (MRZ) contains personal data (passport number, name, surname and issuance date) which is standardized by the ICAO. This MRZ is checked by controllers using a scanner. Today, this can even be done using smartphones, allowing faster data processing and greater accuracy.
International technical specifications for passports by ICAOPassports follow strict regulations. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) is in charge of standardizing the technical features of passports (portrait and personal data of the holder). IDEMIA participates in the ICAO committees and therefore plays a significant role in defining standards.
The ISO / CEI7810 normISO sets up rules related to the format of passports. As an example, under the ISO/CEI7810 norm, all passports must be 125 mm long and 88 mm wide.
Enrollment process - capturing Susan’s personal data
11Biographical data:
First name, surname, nationality, place and date of birth![]()
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33Seven days later,
Susan picked up her ePassport![]()
1daysEnrollment process - capturing Susan’s personal data
11Biographical data:
First name, surname, nationality, place and date of birth![]()
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33Seven days later,
Susan picked up her ePassport![]()
1days
11The chip embeds
Susan’s data.- Biographical data
- Picture
- Fingerprints
- Passport number
22The chip also embeds the digital signature of the issuing country. It guarantees data authenticity.
The chip-inside symbol was designed at IDEMIA’s Haarlem site.
33Design for privacyCitizen data and privacy protection are ensured from the conception to the delivery of the solution.
44Electronic Machine Readable Travel Documentsor eMRTDs follow the specifications as per ICAO document 9303, on deployment of biometric identification and electronic storage of data.
At bordercontrol15The MRZ is the key to opening and reading the chip at borders. Without the MRZ, it is not possible to access the data in the chip. It is effective protection against attacks such as eavesdropping or skimming.![]()
26Information contained in the chip is read and displayed on the border guard’s monitor.37The border guard compares Susan’s biographical information printed on the data page with the data stored in the chip, with the person in front of him.![]()
11The chip embeds
Susan’s data.- Biographical data
- Picture
- Fingerprints
- Passport number22The chip also embeds the digital signature of the issuing country. It guarantees data authenticity. The chip-inside symbol was designed at IDEMIA’s Haarlem site.33Design for privacyCitizen data and privacy protection are ensured from the conception to the delivery of the solution.
44Electronic Machine Readable Travel Documentsor eMRTDs follow the specifications as per ICAO document 9303, on deployment of biometric identification and electronic storage of data.
At bordercontrol15The MRZ is the key to opening and reading the chip at borders. Without the MRZ, it is not possible to access the data in the chip. It is effective protection against attacks such as eavesdropping or skimming.![]()
26Information contained in the chip is read and displayed on the border guard’s monitor.37The border guard compares Susan’s biographical information printed on the data page with the data stored in the chip, with the person in front of him.![]()
11She places her ePassport on the reader and enters the eGate.
22She looks straight at the camera in front of her.
33She exits the eGate.11She places her ePassport on the reader and enters the eGate.22She looks straight at the camera in front of her.33She exits the eGate.
11Optical Character Recognition (OCR):
MRZ reading.22Contactless chip reading can now be done in less than two seconds.
33Checking
country’s signatureIDEMIA’s TraveLane includes travel document reading and authentication, traveler identity verification, ID fraud detection, passenger eligibility check and Entry/Exit authorization.
More information on TraveLane44Susan’s face is compared with the portrait in the chip. Her data is checked against INTERPOL’s database and the destination country’s watchlist to see if she is allowed to cross the border.55Facial recognition matched. Susan can now enjoy airport facilities.11Optical Character Recognition (OCR):
MRZ reading.22Contactless chip reading can now be done in less than two seconds.33Checking
country’s signatureIDEMIA’s TraveLane includes travel document reading and authentication, traveler identity verification, ID fraud detection, passenger eligibility check and Entry/Exit authorization.
More information on TraveLane44Susan’s face is compared with the portrait in the chip. Her data is checked against INTERPOL’s database and the destination country’s watchlist to see if she is allowed to cross the border.55Facial recognition matched. Susan can now enjoy airport facilities.- Polycarbonate
The data page is made from a plastic material that allows implementing innovative security featuresOptical Variable Ink (OVI)
The pattern changes from green to gold depending on the angle of viewPolycarbonate
The data page is made from a plastic material that allows implementing innovative security featuresOptical Variable Ink (OVI)
The pattern changes from green to gold depending on the angle of view11Counterfeiting11CounterfeitingA complete reproduction of a genuine document (made with false elements or using parts of genuine documents).
![Counterfeiting]()
22Forgery22ForgeryFalsification of personal data and/or security features in an ID document.
![Forgery]()
33Stolen blank documents33Stolen blank documentsReady-to-be personalized documents that have been stolen in order to personalize with false information.
![Stolen blank documents]()
44Imposters44ImpostersImposters using genuine documents that do not belong to them (the original photo shows a physical similarity to the imposter).
![Imposter]()
55Fraudulently Obtained
but Genuine documents55Fraudulently Obtained
but Genuine documentsAn authentic document provided by the authorities with false data and/or morphed portrait.
![Fraudulently Obtained documents]()
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A complete reproduction of a genuine document (made with false elements or using parts of genuine documents).
More information on fighting identity fraud11Counterfeiting11CounterfeitingA complete reproduction of a genuine document (made with false elements or using parts of genuine documents).
![Counterfeiting]()
22Forgery22ForgeryFalsification of personal data and/or security features in an ID document.
![Forgery]()
33Stolen blank documents33Stolen blank documentsReady-to-be personalized documents that have been stolen in order to personalize with false information.
![Stolen blank documents]()
44Imposters44ImpostersImposters using genuine documents that do not belong to them (the original photo shows a physical similarity to the imposter).
![Imposter]()
55Fraudulently Obtained
but Genuine documents55Fraudulently Obtained
but Genuine documentsAn authentic document provided by the authorities with false data and/or morphed portrait.
![Fraudulently Obtained documents]()
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A complete reproduction of a genuine document (made with false elements or using parts of genuine documents).
More information on fighting identity fraud - 11Remote
online enrollment22An officer from the passport office comes to the hospital to capture Susan’s cousin’s biometric data and finalize the renewal process![]()
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Facecapture![]()
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Fingerprintcapture![]()
Iriscapture33Fast-track
passport delivery11Remote
online enrollment22An officer from the passport office comes to the hospital to capture Susan’s cousin’s biometric data and finalize the renewal process![]()
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Facecapture![]()
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Fingerprintcapture![]()
Iriscapture33Fast-track
passport delivery
11Enrollment and delivery centersWhen citizens apply for a passport, they go to an enrollment center where their biographical and biometric data is captured. They also provide documents such as a birth certificate proving their identity. Applicants usually take delivery of their passport at the same center. Enrollment and delivery centers are located across the country.
22Identity management systemThe biometric data is compared to the identities stored in the government’s database to ensure that her data has not already been registered. Once verified, approval is sent to the personalization center. The use of biometrics guarantees that her identity is unique.
33Personalization centerThe data received from the identity system is added to the blank passport. The personalization process consists of two steps:
- Graphical: secure laser engraving of personal data and MRZ
- Electrical: The biographical and biometric data is embedded in the chip and protected by an eMRTD ICAO signature.
44Secure deliveryThe personalization system has flagged Susan’s cousin passport as a priority using fast-track delivery.
At the hospital, the courier verifies the identity of Susan’s cousin before delivering her passport.IDEMIA provides such solution in Albania.
Click here to discover the story11Enrollment and delivery centersWhen citizens apply for a passport, they go to an enrollment center where their biographical and biometric data is captured. They also provide documents such as a birth certificate proving their identity. Applicants usually take delivery of their passport at the same center. Enrollment and delivery centers are located across the country.
22Identity management systemThe biometric data is compared to the identities stored in the government’s database to ensure that her data has not already been registered. Once verified, approval is sent to the personalization center. The use of biometrics guarantees that her identity is unique.
33Personalization centerThe data received from the identity system is added to the blank passport. The personalization process consists of two steps:
- Graphical: secure laser engraving of personal data and MRZ
- Electrical: The biographical and biometric data is embedded in the chip and protected by an eMRTD ICAO signature.44Secure deliveryThe personalization system has flagged Susan’s cousin passport as a priority using fast-track delivery.
At the hospital, the courier verifies the identity of Susan’s cousin before delivering her passport.IDEMIA provides such solution in Albania.
Click here to discover the story - Searching for the perfect destination for our honeymoon.
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Abroadian citizens can access160 countrieswithout a visaUtopian citizens can access130 countrieswithout a visaAfter searching for hours, we found the perfect destination for our honeymoon! A sunny and sandy paradisiac island in the middle of nowhere!![]()
Searching for the perfect destination for our honeymoon.![]()
Abroadian citizens can access160 countrieswithout a visaUtopian citizens can access130 countrieswithout a visaAfter searching for hours, we found the perfect destination for our honeymoon! A sunny and sandy paradisiac island in the middle of nowhere!![]()
The power of a passport is determined by the number of countries a citizen can visit without requesting a visa.
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50countriesCriteriaEconomic growthPolitical stabilitySolid and secure identity infrastructureCapacity to apply counter-terrorism lawsEconomic growthPolitical stabilitySolid and secure identity infrastructureCapacity to apply counter-terrorism lawsVisa waiver: a root of trust between countriesObtaining a visa waiver (a visa-free agreement between two countries for their travellers), is based on multiple criteria, including a solid and secure identity infrastructure. For countries that are willing to maximize their chances to obtain visa waivers, a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) can enable to implement a robust and modern identity infrastructure in a few months.
The power of a passport is determined by the number of countries a citizen can visit without requesting a visa.
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50countriesCriteriaEconomic growthPolitical stabilitySolid and secure identity infrastructureCapacity to apply counter-terrorism lawsEconomic growthPolitical stabilitySolid and secure identity infrastructureCapacity to apply counter-terrorism lawsVisa waiver: a root of trust between countriesObtaining a visa waiver (a visa-free agreement between two countries for their travellers), is based on multiple criteria, including a solid and secure identity infrastructure. For countries that are willing to maximize their chances to obtain visa waivers, a Public-Private Partnership (PPP) can enable to implement a robust and modern identity infrastructure in a few months.
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11Digital onboardingSusan downloads the smartphone app issued by the government to create her digital travel identity. This identity derives from her passport and is stored directly in her mobile.
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22Susan plans her journey- She books a flight with the airline
- She consents to sharing certain attributes of her digital identity with the air travel ecosystem. This facilitates her entire travel experience.![]()
Names:
SUSAN
Nationality:
ABROADIAN
Date of birth:
11/03/1994BiometricdataAlphanumericdata33Susan shows her digital travel identity on her smartphone to the border guard. She carries her passport with her, as not all countries accept digital identity documents.![]()
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44Biometric authentication
Susan uses her biometrics to go through the various touchpoints, as her biometric data can be easily checked against her digital travel identity.![]()
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11Digital onboardingSusan downloads the smartphone app issued by the government to create her digital travel identity. This identity derives from her passport and is stored directly in her mobile.
![]()
22Susan plans her journey- She books a flight with the airline
- She consents to sharing certain attributes of her digital identity with the air travel ecosystem. This facilitates her entire travel experience.![]()
Names:
SUSAN
Nationality:
ABROADIAN
Date of birth:
11/03/1994BiometricdataAlphanumericdata33Susan shows her digital travel identity on her smartphone to the border guard. She carries her passport with her, as not all countries accept digital identity documents.![]()
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44Biometric authentication
Susan uses her biometrics to go through the various touchpoints, as her biometric data can be easily checked against her digital travel identity.![]()
Design for privacy - Susan’s digital travel identity is based on her biometrics and is stored locally in her smartphone.
11Susan consents to sharing the following data:- Facial and fingerprint biometrics
- Personal data
- Flight informationwith the relevant stakeholders:- Airline
- Airport
- Departure and arrival countries22The destination country verifies Susan’s dataagainst the revelant local and international watchlists to carry out a risk assessment.
Susan is declared a bona fide traveler and is allowed into the country.As the destination country was expecting the Reyes family, they can either use their ePassports, biometrics or smartphones to breeze through the automated border control checkpoint.
Design for privacy - Susan’s digital travel identity is based on her biometrics and is stored locally in her smartphone.
11Susan consents to sharing the following data:- Facial and fingerprint biometrics
- Personal data
- Flight informationwith the relevant stakeholders:- Airline
- Airport
- Departure and arrival countries22The destination country verifies Susan’s dataagainst the revelant local and international watchlists to carry out a risk assessment.
Susan is declared a bona fide traveler and is allowed into the country.As the destination country was expecting the Reyes family, they can either use their ePassports, biometrics or smartphones to breeze through the automated border control checkpoint.
1994
2008
2012
2018
2020
2024
2030
1994