Biometric Passports

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About the passport

The new biometric passport

Over the last two years, the Identity and Passport Service (IPS) has successfully introduced a range of procedures and systems to prevent identity and passport fraud. In March 2006, we launched one of our most important counter-fraud initiatives, the biometric passport.

The biometric passport has a new design and improved security features which were not present on previous passports. The new pages have intricate designs, complex watermarks and a chip antenna.

Why has the UK introduced biometrics in its passport?
What information is stored on the chip?
Is the biometric passport secure?
Can the British passport be cloned?
At what distance can the chip be read?
Do I need to exchange my current passport?
What are the additional design features on the biometric passport?

24-hour Passport Adviceline: 0300 222 0000 (see terms and conditions). Calls made to 0300 numbers from landlines and mobile phones are charged to customers at their network provider's national rate. Live operators are available to assist with your enquiry 24 hours a day.