The e-passport contains new security features designed to make the passport tamper-proof. These features include:
- an electronic chip (e-chip) embedded in the back cover, which will store the same personal information that appears on Page 2 of the passport (except for the signature), the photo and a digital security feature that proves that the passport was issued by the government of Canada; and
- new images in the inside pages that provide additional security.
More than 100 countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and France, already issue e-passports to their citizens.
According to CIC, when information is first stored on the e-chip in the passport, the e-chip is electronically locked so that information cannot be modified. CIC also states that the information on the e-chip cannot be read unless the e-passport is held within 10 centimetres of an e-passport reader and open to page 2, and the machine-readable zone has first been read. Canadians who would like to see the information stored on their e-chip ensure its accuracy may do so by visiting one of Passport Canada's 34 regional offices.
At border crossings equipped with e-passport readers, the e-passport is placed into a scanner that reads the machine-readable zone, which allows the e-chip to be read also. The machine also checks other security features, such as the country-specific signature. Canada Border Services Agency authorities that do not yet have e-passport readers in place will continue to examine travellers' passports by examining existing security features, such as the holographic images.
For an adult (age 16 or older), a five-year e-passport will cost C$120 and a 10-year e-passport will cost C$160. For a child (up to age 15), the cost will be C$57.
---
Autor(en)/Author(s): Henry J Chang
Quelle/Source: International Law Office, 30.08.2013
Bitte besuchen Sie/Please visit:
