DHS to Require Digital Photos in Passports for Visa Waiver Travelers

Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Secretary Michael Chertoff announced today that Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries will be required to produce passports with digital photographs by October 26, 2005. On that date, all VWP countries must also present an acceptable plan to begin issuing integrated circuit chips, or e-passports, within one year.

This announcement relates to the Enhanced Border Security and Visa Entry Reform Act of 2002 requirement that any passport issued after October 26, 2005, and used for Visa Waiver Program (VWP) travel to the United States, must include a biometric identifier based on applicable standards established by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).

“The electronic passport is the path to secure and streamlined travel among Visa Waiver Program countries,” said Secretary Chertoff. “These passport requirements will maintain and strengthen the integrity of the Visa Waiver Program in a manner consistent with congressional intent and international standards. We are pleased by the progress of many Visa Waiver countries in complying with these requirements and we look forward to working with all participating countries toward their speedy and complete adoption.” ...

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U.S. Department of Homeland Security

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