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Biometric travel documents

This page explains what a biometric travel document is and how you can apply for one.

Since 17 March 2008 the Home Office has been issuing biometric travel documents. However, 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) and enclosing the correct fee and supporting documents. The Applying page contains more information about this.

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

All United Kingdom immigration ports and European Union (EU) member states have the capability to read the data on the biometric chip.

You can still use your current travel document until it expires. But if you apply for and are issued with a new document, you will receive a biometric travel document.

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

Application forms

Home Office travel document

See also