The U.S. Electronic Passport

The proposed U.S. Electronic Passport is the same as a regular passport with the addition of a small contactless integrated circuit (computer chip) embedded in the back cover. The chip will securely store the same data visually displayed on the photo page of the passport, and will additionally include a digital photograph. The inclusion of the digital photograph will enable biometric comparison, through the use of facial recognition technology at international borders. The U.S. “e-passport” will also have a new look, incorporating additional anti-fraud and security features.

Passports without chips will still be valid for the full extent of their validity period.

The Department of State Starts Issuing Tourist E-Passports 

Electronic Passport Frequently Asked Questions

Security and Privacy of the e-Passport

Public Comments in the Federal Register on the Proposed Rule for the e-Passport

New Design for the U.S. e-Passport

For more information please go to http://travel.state.gov .