Do you know what an “e-passport” is? The term “e-passport” or “electronic passport” refers to the traditional passport book. Currently the US passports are considered e-passports because they contain small integrated chips embedded within the back cover of the passport booklet.
The e-passport chip stores the identical data that is displayed on the data page of the US passport. In addition to the data that appears within the passport, the chip stores a digital image of the passport photograph. This feature allows for the use of face recognition technology at ports-of-entry where the passport is presented. The e-passport chip also contains a unique chip identification number. Lastly, the e-passport chip also contains a digital signature. The purpose of the digital signature is to protect the stored data from being altered.
Many countries use e-passports now. These e-passports are sometimes known as biometric passports as well. As for 2013, Nearly 100 countries have biometric passports. Among the countries that have biometric passports are Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, UK, and the United States. Over the next few years, many more countries will be sure to feature biometric passports as well.
If you are interested in getting a passport or visa, give us a call at (212) 643-9305. Rush Passport™ Official US Passport Expeditors, serving Brooklyn, The Bronx, Queens, Staten Island, Manhattan, Westchester County, Nassau County & Suffolk County, Long Island, New Jersey, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania and Connecticut.
