Canada launches new ePassport

10/09/2013

Canada’s new ePassport was launched on July 1, 2013. With the introduction of this enhanced passport, adult Canadian citizens now have the option of applying for a 5-year or a 10-year passport.

The ePassport looks similar to a traditional passport, but it contains an embedded electronic chip that stores the client’s name, date of birth, nationality, expiry date, passport number and photo. The data on the e-chip is read by placing the passport near (within 10 centimetres) an ePassport reader. As part of the authentication process, the expiration date, passport number and the client’s date of birth need to first be entered into the reader before the information on the chip is accessed. It is therefore extremely unlikely that personal data stored on the ePassport chip could be read without your knowledge.

The ePassport is electronically locked so that your information cannot be tampered with. No additional information about you or your travels will be stored on the e-chip.

Canada’s new ePassport reduces the risk of tampering and identity fraud, by adding another layer of security to this internationally respected travel document. ePassports are now the norm in travel documents; over 100 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and France, have been using ePassports for several years.

More information about Canada’s new ePassport is available online. Visit the Passport Canada website to apply for a Canadian passport.

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