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Biometric travel documents

This page explains what a biometric travel document is and how you can apply for one. From 17 March 2008 the Home Office will be issuing biometric travel documents. The process of applying for a Home Office travel document has not changed. All applications must be made by post by completing a travel document application form (TD112 version 04/2008) and enclosing the correct fee and supporting documents. Further details on applying for a travel document can be found on the applying page.

The biometric travel document has a new design and security features including a biometric chip. The chip contains the holder?s details as shown on page 31 of the document. Only personal information shown on this page (name, nationality, sex, place and date of birth and signature) is included on the chip .The applicant's scanned photograph is the biometric element of the document. No other information is included on the chip.

The biometric travel document contains the holders details on a tamper proof biometric chip. All United Kingdom immigration ports and European Union (EU) member states have the capability to read the data on the bio-chip.

You can still use your current travel document until it expires. If you apply for and are issued with a new document after 17 March 2008 you will receive a biometric travel document.

Home Office travel document fees will not change with the introduction of the new biometric documents.

Application forms

Home Office travel document

See also