Brits could see a major change to their passports by 2027 where an updated version of the Government app will allow you to upload and hold your important documents on it
International travel is set for major change as smartphones will be able to hold a digital version of the British passport by 2027, it has been reported.
In a couple of years, Brits will be able to save important documents, including their passport and driver’s license, onto their phone using a digital wallet app, which is due to be launched by the Government at the end of the year. Initially, the feature will only be available for domestic use, but could eventually be used for international travel, subject to agreements.
The idea of digitalising passports was first suggested in Finland, and residents have been able to use their phones to travel to the UK as part of a pilot programme.
Technology Secretary Peter Kyle launched the new Government app and announced it was the beginning of “wrapping services around individual people’s needs”. “The key function you want from the passport is being able to travel with it, without constantly being worried you forgot your passport,” he told The Times.
“But it’s not dependent on Britain, it depends on the country you’re travelling to. So we’re keeping a close eye on international standards. When those standards become clearer, then, of course, you have a Government that would aspire to be able to benefit from it as much as possible.”
The ‘wallet’ will use digital security features already built into modern phones, including facial recognition, for protection. The digital ‘wallet’ is due to be launched in June with a veteran’s card, following by a pilot of driving licenses.
Then, in 2027, it is hoped that a hub for all government credentials will be available including birth certificates, national insurance numbers, power of attorney, marriage, DBS checks and rights to work/ rent.
Once installed, the wallet will make use of the security features built into modern smartphones. In addition, ministers hope that it will also make services such as applying for childcare more easy for parents. Once uploaded, travellers digital credentials will be available for access almost immediately.
When asked whether asylum and immigration status individuals be a part of the new digital wallet, Mr Kyle said “nothing is off the table”. However, the new app has caused some questions regarding privacy and security to be raised.
For example, Derek Gordon, a digital identity expert at the cyber security company NCC Group, fears that placing all our personal information onto our phones would give cyber criminals “another access point” to steal that information. If thieves were able to get their hands on these details, they could use if for identity theft, fraud, or even resell it back on the black market.
