The biometric passport (ePassport, digital passport) is similar to a traditional passport. It contains basic personal information and an embedded electronic microprocessor chip, which stores the biometric data of its owner.
- Additional biometric information
- Identification number
- Fingerprints
- Full name
- Photo was taken using biometrics
- Gender
- The Iris pattern is used in certain countries
- Date of birth
- Place of birth
- Nationality
- Validity
- Country issuing
The new facial and fingerprint recognition systems are designed to authenticate a person’s identity and improve security at national borders.
Since the late 1990s, biometric passports have been around. These digital passports are being issued by more than 120 countries worldwide as of June 2017.
Benefits of a biometric passport
- Both the holder and the country they are traveling to will benefit from the new biometric passport.
- Authentication without any doubt
- Automated passport control at ePassport gate without the need for a border officer
- Increased privacy and security, e.g., Complex watermarks and pages with intricate designs
- Reduced chance of fraud
How can I tell if I have an ePassport
You can identify a biometric passport by simply looking at its front cover. It is an ePassport if you see the following symbol.
The signet can be printed on the front or embossed.
How can I use my passport to cross the border?
An ePassport holder can bypass the need to go to the counters and talk to border control officers. Instead, he can walk straight to the automated border control gates to perform the passport check. These are the steps:
- The scanner will scan your biometric passport. The scanner will read the information from both the embedded chip attention. It compares the data to the data stored on the server.
- Once the data has been authenticated, you will need to look at the camera to take a picture of your face. The integrated chip will compare your face to the image.
- If the photo is authenticated, you can open the border control door and exit.
How can I obtain an ePassport
ePassports are being issued in most countries around the globe. You will need to apply for a passport at your local office. In Germany, it is the resident’s registration office.
The process can vary significantly between countries, so please get in touch with the office responsible and ask about topics such as:
- An ePassport costs more
- Processing time for an ePassport
- Validity of an ePassport
What is the best way to get an ePassport if you are not in the USA?
You can apply for a passport if you are a citizen of the USA and have studied or worked in the USA. You will need to apply for a passport at the consulate in your country.
Note: Some consulates may require that you show proof that your passport is not currently valid in your country. You must check what documents are required to apply for a new document.
With an ePassport, you can travel to the USA.
To travel to the USA, you will need a valid visa. What about your passport? Find out more about the travel documents required for entry to the USA.
To get ESTA, do I need an ePassport?
An ePassport is required if you wish to travel to the USA without a visa. However, you can use ESTA. Before you travel to the USA, make sure you have an ePassport and a valid ESTA.
Are my children also required to have an ePassport to obtain ESTA?
You and your minor children must have an ESTA to travel to the USA. This applies regardless of whether you are accompanied or unaccompanied. Your children will also need an ePassport. ESTA is not available for children with a passport issued in countries such as Germany.
Only a child who has a valid visa can enter the USA. A children’s passport is not required.
How long is the passport required to travel to the USA?
It is a general rule that passports must be valid for six months after you plan to leave the USA. If you plan to stay for one month in the USA, your access should not expire before February 1, 2020.
There are, however, certain countries that belong to the Six-Month Club. These countries are exempted from the rule. They do not need their passports valid beyond the intended travel period. If you want to travel for a month and enter the USA on July 1, 2019, your passport must be valid until August 1, 2019.
Valid US visa for an expired passport
Each non-immigrant US visa comes with an expiry date. This means that the visa will be valid up to that date. This is also true if your passport expires before the visa expiry date. Your visa will remain valid if your passport has expired before the expiry date.
- You must, however, meet the following conditions:
- At the border, you will need to present your passport (new and expired).
- After your passport is cancelled by the local authorities, your US visa must remain unaffected.
- To remain valid, the US visa must be kept in your passport.
- Both passports must reflect the same nationality. Your US visa will be invalid if you acquire a new citizenship.
- Your reason for visiting the USA must remain the same. If you are a student, you must continue studying in the USA.
In case your name changes, e.g. A new visa is not usually required after a divorce or marriage. However, you should bring documentation such as a marriage certificate. When you enter the USA, make sure to get your marriage certificate.
What should I do if my passport is lost?
These steps will help you if your passport is lost or stolen.
Report to the Police
Inform your local police about the incident and contact them. When applying for a passport, you will need to present a copy of the report from the police. Make sure you have one.
Report to the US consulate
You must also report any loss of a visa in your passport if you are not a US citizen. This can be done in many countries via e-mail. These are the details you should include in your message:
- Full name
- Date and birthplace
If you have a passport or visa, a copy of it is required.
Apply for a passport renewal
Contact the US consulate responsible for applying for a passport or visa.
Additional Tip: We recommend you take a copy of your passport and, if possible, your visa to ensure you are correctly identified. This will help you identify yourself and get a new ID if you lose your passport.
What should I do if my passport is lost in the USA?
You must follow the steps if you lose your passport as a foreigner while in the USA.
Most cases don’t require you to leave the USA immediately after losing your passport. You must fill out an I-94 form as proof of lawful entry.
It will also show how long you can legally stay in the USA. Having it with you wherever you go until you depart from the USA is essential.
If you wish to return to the USA after leaving, you will need a new ESTA (or visa) to do so again.
How can I apply for a passport renewal in the USA?
You can stay longer in the USA for more than one year. You may be eligible to apply for a passport in the USA if you work or study there. For more information, please contact your consulate in your country.
If you wish to return to the USA after you have left, you will need a new ESTA (or visa) to do so again.
After reporting it was missing, I found my passport. Is it possible to use the passport again?
You cannot withdraw your report once you have reported that your passport has been lost. Your old passport can no longer be used to enter the USA.
All visas that have been reported as lost in your passport must be reapplied for. This means that you must schedule a new interview for your visa after you have received your passport. You will need all the necessary documents.
The same applies to a stolen or lost passport that includes an ESTA. If you report the loss to a consulate or police department, your ESTA will be invalid. Even if your passport is found again, you must apply for a new ESTA.