The Department of State is phasing-in the issuance of the new Electronic Passport (e-passport) to better facilitate international travel for U.S. citizens and enhance border security.
On December 30, 2005, the Department began limited production of the first-ever U.S. e-passports.
As part of a pilot program, we are now issuing diplomatic passports and soon official passports in electronic format. The e-passport integrates the latest concepts in electronic document protection and readability. The new passport combines face recognition and contactless chip technology.
The chip, embedded in the cover of the passport, holds the same information that is printed in the passport: name, date of birth, gender, place of birth, dates of passport issuance and expiration, passport number, and photo image of the bearer. Previously issued passports without electronic chips will remain valid until their expiration dates.
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