The European Commission has introduced a proposal to launch a digital passport and ID system, known as EU Digital Travel, aimed at streamlining border processes for travel to and from the Schengen Area.
This initiative is part of the EU’s broader push to modernize travel and reduce wait times at border crossings, particularly significant given the nearly 600 million border crossings recorded in 2023 alone.
With EU Digital Travel, both EU citizens and travelers from third countries will have the option to use digital travel credentials, which store essential data like passport information and facial images. These credentials, stored securely on mobile devices, allow for advance border checks, helping to expedite crossing times and minimize congestion at physical borders. Participation in the digital passport program will be voluntary and free for travelers.
The digital travel credentials system aims to simplify border crossings, reduce paperwork, and enhance security. By allowing travelers to submit their documents and travel plans in advance, authorities can conduct pre-clearance, making border controls more efficient and enabling border officials to focus resources on detecting cross-border crime and preventing illegal migration. This digital framework will also help prevent document fraud, as digital credentials enhance the verification of document authenticity.
The EU Digital Travel app, to be developed with assistance from the EU’s IT agency eu-LISA, will be accessible to EU citizens and third-country nationals with biometric passports. Through this app, travelers can create digital travel credentials, submit their travel details in advance, and retain control over their personal data, as the app requires user consent for processing any personal information.
Additionally, border authorities across EU member states will undergo extensive training in data security protocols before being granted access to the system.
Set to be fully operational by 2030, the EU Digital Travel app will integrate with the European Digital Identity Wallet, a secure platform where EU citizens can store digital versions of essential documents, including passports, driver’s licenses, and medical prescriptions.
The proposal is now under consideration by the European Parliament and Council, with further steps to establish technical guidelines and implement the app following legislative approval. This digital travel framework aligns with the EU’s broader Digital Europe strategy, which seeks to advance digital public services and enhance citizens’ digital identification options.
“Today’s proposal to digitize passports and ID documents will enable smoother and more secure travel. It will also allow travelers to move more fluidly and quickly across the EU. We know this is something many Europeans see as a benefit of our Union.” said Věra Jourová, Vice-President for Values and Transparency
“The proposed digitalization of travel documents represents a major step forward in border management efficiency, driving a digital Schengen space. By allowing travelers to submit their documents digitally in advance, border guards will be able to verify identities before arrival. This will streamline the process for all travelers, especially EU citizens, while focusing more attention on suspicious cases and enhancing systematic checks at our external borders.” commented Margaritis Schinas, Vice-President for Promoting Our European Way of Life
“The fact that EU citizens can travel within and to the EU using only their passport or ID document forms the basis of the right to free movement. Now we are adapting this right to today’s digital world.” said Didier Reynders, Commissioner for Justice
“Digital passports are an important step forward in strengthening security within the Schengen Area and facilitating travel. They will allow border guards to swiftly process legitimate travelers and focus more on stopping suspects of crime and terrorism.” said Ylva Johansson, European Commissioner for Home Affairs
