What types of passport are authorized to enter the USA?

To travel to the USA, certain specific requirements apply to the type of passport. The following criteria apply to foreign travelers wishing to enter the USA:

• The traveler’s passport must be biometric or electronic.
• Passports must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of departure from the United States.

Please note: The validity of the passport also influences the validity of the associated travel authorization. If your passport expires, the visitor visa obtained on the passport automatically becomes invalid. You will need to renew your visa with an American embassy when your new passport is issued.

What is a biometric passport?

The biometric passport represents a significant advance in travel document security for the United States. This type of passport is equipped with an electronic chip that stores biometric data essential to the holder. This information includes:

• Personal data such as name, date of birth and address.
• Biometric data such as facial photos and fingerprints.

The main aim of the biometric passport is to improve security and limit the risk of fraud or forgery. The type of passport will be checked during the visa application process.

What’s the difference between a biometric passport and an electronic passport?

An e-passport is a travel document containing an electronic chip to store identification information. All biometric passports are e-passports, but some countries differentiate between the two terms. A biometric passport contains specific data, such as fingerprints or facial scans, which is not systematically the case for all e-passports.

How do you recognize a biometric or electronic passport?

To identify whether your passport is biometric or electronic, look for the gold symbol below the word “PASSPORT” on the cover. This pictogram, representing a circle between two thick lines, is a clear indication that the passport has an integrated microchip.