The EU member states have agreed that sometime in 2009 at the latest, passports will include the holder’s fingerprints. Since 26 August 2006, Dutch passports have included an electronic chip containing the personal details of the holder and a digitised passport photograph. In 2009, the chip will also contain a digitised image of the holder’s fingerprints. The aim is to make EU passports less susceptible to falsification and fraud. The chip makes it possible to compare this information electronically with the holder’s features and the printed information in the passport. This will make it more difficult to falsify passports or use someone else’s passport.

Dutch residents abroad

If you reside abroad and your passport expires, you can apply for a new passport at a Dutch embassy or consulate. In 2009, the Dutch government will include fingerprints in all new passports. To include biometric information in passports, Dutch embassies, consulates-general, and honorary consulates will need new equipment. But not all honorary consulates can be equipped. As a result, not all honorary consulates will be able to process passport applications.

Are you a Dutch resident abroad but staying temporarily in the Netherlands, on holiday for example? If your passport is due to expire in the near future, you can apply for a new one in the Netherlands. You can do so at the Travel Documents Departments of the municipality of The Hague (city centre office; www.denhaag.nl).

Recent requirements for passport photographs

Since 28 August 2006, under EU regulation 2252/2004, all EU member states have been obliged to include a digital image of the holder’s passport photograph. New passports will come with an electronic chip, containing personal details and a digital image of your passport photograph. As a result, requirements will change. Outside the Netherlands, it may be more difficult to obtain passport photographs that meet these requirements. An invalid passport photograph can slow down the issue of a new passport. If you intend to apply for a new passport, it is advisable to obtain passport photographs in the Netherlands in advance, thereby ensuring that they meet the appropriate requirements.