A digital version of your passport and identity card on your smartphone? The European Commission wants to make that option available starting in 2030.
The European Commission plans to digitize passports and identity cards starting in 2030, announced European Commissioner Ylva Johansson. The digital documents will not completely replace existing travel documents, as their use is not mandatory. The documents contain information contained in the chip of passports and identity cards, as well as a photograph of the cardholder, but not a fingerprint.
Easier travel inside and outside Europe
“This makes it easier and faster for customs personnel. You can send your digital passport in advance and customs staff can already perform checks,” Johansson said. At the border, the traveler’s face is compared to the photo on the digital document.
600 million people come to the European Union every year, which brings a large workload in border controls. Digitization would tighten security measures within the Schengen zone. It would make it easier for border guards to intercept crime and terrorism suspects.
The proposal has not yet been approved by member states and the European Parliament, ANP knows. If they agree, development of the technology can begin. There is already a digital wallet in Belgium, in which you can eventually put important documents and certificates, such as your eID or driver’s license. Perhaps that app will also come in handy while traveling.
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