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Have you ever wondered what that little gold rectangle on your passport cover means? It's the international symbol for a biometric passport, which are also referred to as e-passports or digital passports. Biometric passports allow travelers to use a self-service kiosk (it takes less than 2 minutes) to process their entry and Customs information at major US airports. Read us for more information on US biometric passports, security measures and about the future of these passports.

The US State Department has confirmed, passport applicants are not allowed to wear glasses in their passport photos from November 1, 2016. The major reasons to not have glasses in passport photos are because of tinted lenses (which make it hard to see the applicant's eyes) and biometrics. Biometric passports store basic data about the passport holder (name, birth date, passport number and photo) on a small computer chip embedded in the passport. A computer program can analyze a scan of applicant photo and take measurements. If applicant wears glasses in passport photo, it makes it more difficult for the computer program to take accurate measurements of passport holder's features.

Airports are beginning to turn to biometrics technology as a solution in US and around the world. This digital technology promises to end long lines at the airport and enhance the air travel comfort. It could speed up the security measures and will allow a passenger's fingerprint or face recognition to replace their passport and boarding pass. If successful, the new technology could render passports redundant. What do you think about the technology?

Before you pack your bags for your summer travel, you'd be wise to check the passport requirements for your destination! Entry requirements for international destinations aren't set in stone; they can and do change frequently. Nations including Italy, France, Kuwait, and even the US have recently changed their entry requirements for foreign visitors. Read the PassportInfo's latest post on updated passport requirements of Europe, Asia, and North American countries.