Published by: CNBC-TV18.com
Finland launched the world’s first digital passports to enhance international travel.
Finnish travellers to the UK can now use a digital ID on their mobile devices instead of physical passports.
This is the first instance where a digital passport is accepted in a genuine border control setting.
The initiative was launched with Finnair, the Finnish police, and airport operator Finavia on August 28.
The Finnish Border Guard is overseeing the trial until February 2024 at Helsinki Airport’s border control.
Travellers must download the FIN DTC Pilot digital travel document app from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
A phone screen locking method must be activated before installing the app.
Travellers must register with the police at Vantaa Main Police Station’s license services.
A valid physical passport is required to create its digital counterpart during registration.
Individuals provide consent and have a facial photo taken for facial recognition purposes during registration.
Registered travellers can use DTC at Helsinki Airport when flying directly to the UK and returning on Finnair flights until February 2024.
Travellers must transmit their data via the app to the Finnish Border Guard 36 to 4 hours before departure.
Poland, South Korea, the US, and the UK are also developing digital passport projects similar to Finland’s initiative.
Singapore introduced HealthCerts, a digital health passport that securely stores and presents COVID-19 test results and vaccination records for travellers in February 2021.
On Passport Seva Divas, EAM S Jaishankar announced the commencement of PSP-Version 2.0, which will include new and enhanced e-passports.