As technology continues to advance in society, everyday necessities are becoming more accessible by the day. Electronic passports are quickly becoming the answer to modernize travel security. With these new advances, global mobility and travel are more accessible and efficient than ever before.
“100% virtual” ePassports refer to fully digital travel credentials that can be stored and verified using secure mobile platforms. These virtual documents eliminate the need for a physical passport booklet while maintaining the same levels of identity verification, biometric integration, and international interoperability.
Electronic passports (ePassports) are quickly evolving, driven by the dual imperatives of enhanced security and the desire to reflect national identity. In fact, the global ePassport market is projected to reach $69.6 billion in 2025 and surge to $479 billion by 20351, reflecting robust investment in secure travel documentation and border modernization. Furthermore, North American governments are evaluating new technologies and design approaches to address rising fraud threats while improving traveler experience.
The Global Evolution of ePassports
More than 140 countries and non-state entities now issue ePassports, with over 1 billion documents in circulation worldwide. Recent upgrades in regions like Europe, Asia, and Africa showcase how integrating advanced technology and design deters counterfeiting and streamlines border crossings.
Additionally, in 2021, an Indian biometric passport pilot project was released, aiming to give out over 10 million biometric passports by 20251. North American passport programs face pressure to keep pace with these developments as international air travel is expected to reach 12.4 billion passengers by 20502.
The development of ePassports in other locations around the world serves as an example of technology playing a significant role in efficient and seamless traveling. These global initiatives highlight how this is just one step of many into the ever-expanding realm of technology.
How Advanced Security Features Are Raising the Bar
The high value of ePassports is not solely based on the 100% virtual aspect, but also its security. Modern ePassports incorporate high-resolution, full-color portraits, optically variable images, and animated effects to strengthen biometric verification and deter forgery.
In addition, embedded chips, encrypted data, and multi-layered authentication—such as the ICAO-standard Password Authenticated Connection Establishment (PACE) protocol—are becoming the norm, with PACE adoption expected to grow at a CAGR of 26.8% through 20351. As the years go on and passport demands rise, both technology and travel security are being increased with the rise of ePassports.
Incorporating these advanced features not only strengthens border security but also supports the development of future-ready identity systems capable of resisting even the most sophisticated cyber threats.
Cultural Identity and Inclusivity in Passport Design
Countries are increasingly using passport design to celebrate national heritage and diversity, fostering a sense of belonging and international recognition. It is crucial that while these are official documents made for travel, cultural expression is still a huge aspect — design choices on ePassports can serve as soft power tools and contribute to a positive traveler experience.
North American passports have begun to reflect these trends, but further opportunities exist to enhance inclusivity and representation. When inclusivity and representation combine with government trust and security, a new window opens for travelers. They will feel not only safe but also special and seen.
Inclusive passport design also reinforces the broader societal goal of ensuring every citizen feels acknowledged in their nation’s identity systems—particularly important in multicultural democracies
Implications for North American Border Security
Fraud schemes in the travel sector have become an increasingly serious threat to civilian safety and security. Adopting next generation ePassport features could help U.S. and Canadian authorities combat sophisticated fraud schemes and facilitate legitimate travel.
Enhanced document security supports faster, more reliable border processing and reduces the risk of identity theft, a growing concern as governments invest in modern RFID and biometric systems. Therefore, ePassports have security features that will have no civilians question their safety while traveling.
The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Passport System Reform and Backlog Prevention Act in March 2024 to modernize passport systems, underscoring the critical need for secure identity verification as travel volumes rise4. (As of June 2025, the legislation remains under consideration in the U.S. Senate and is not yet enacted into law.)
These legislative and policy efforts underscore how border modernization is becoming a core component of national security infrastructure.
The Future of Secure Travel Documents
Emerging technologies—such as digital IDs, mobile passports, and privacy-preserving authentication—are poised to reshape the identity landscape for travelers. For instance, balancing security, privacy, and user experience will be critical as North America considers the next phase of passport modernization.
Ongoing investment in research, public engagement, and international cooperation will determine long-term success. Next-generation ePassports represent a convergence of security innovation and cultural expression.
For North America, embracing these advancements is essential to maintaining secure, efficient, and inclusive borders in an interconnected world. It will increasingly make it easier for people to travel, while ensuring their identity and safety simultaneously.
Looking ahead, collaboration with international partners and adherence to global interoperability standards will be key in realizing the full potential of 100% virtual travel credentials.
1: https://www.futuremarketinsights.com/reports/epassport-market
2: https://www.icao.int/about-icao/Council/Pages/strategic-plan-2026-2050.aspx
3:https://costa.house.gov/media/press-releases/house-passes-costa-issa-bill-modernize-passport-system
4: https://www.gao.gov/blog/whats-being-done-prevent-future-passport-processing-backlogs
About the Author
Jim Marsh is the President and Managing Director of Veridos America, a joint venture between Giesecke+Devrient and Bundesdruckerei. The company supplies governments and authorities with tailor-made complete solutions for secure identification. For more information, please visit www.veridos.com.
