Commission proposes an EU Digital Travel application for easier and safer travel

The European Commission has introduced two proposals to digitalize passports and identity cards, known as the ‘EU Digital Travel application‘ aimed at facilitating travel to and from the Schengen area. Currently, border checks are conducted physically, but with nearly 600 million crossings recorded in 2023, there is a need to expedite these processes while maintaining security. The Commission proposes a common framework allowing travelers to create and store digital travel credentials, which will simplify and secure travel within the Schengen area.

These digital travel credentials are electronic versions of the data contained on passports and identity cards, including facial images but not fingerprints. Travelers will have the option to store these credentials on their mobile phones, completely voluntarily and free of charge. The digital documents will enable faster border crossings, as both EU and non-EU travelers will be able to submit their credentials for advance checks.

For EU citizens, digital identity cards can be used for registration and identification purposes, such as taking up residence in another Member State or accessing electronic identification schemes. This system will enhance border control efficiency, allowing authorities to focus on detecting criminals and preventing smuggling. It will also strengthen the security of the Schengen area by making it more difficult for fraudsters to use fake documents.

The EU Digital Travel application, developed with support from eu-LISA, will be available by 2030 for all EU and non-EU citizens with biometric passports or identity cards. The app will allow travelers to create digital credentials, submit travel documents in advance, and ensure their data is protected, with consent required before processing any personal information. Member States will also provide training on data security before allowing access to the system. Additionally, the application will support storing these credentials in the European Digital Identity Wallet.

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