New biometric passport for the Congo: Security at the highest level!

New biometric passport for the Congo: Security at the highest level!

The Democratic Republic of Congo took an important step in the modernization of its identity documents on June 5, 2025. The new biometric passport was officially introduced to meet the security standards of international guidelines and to better protect the identity of the citizens. Official information from [ots.at] (https://www.ots.at/presseaus-sung/ots_20250605_ots0188/biometrischer-pass-fuer-die-dr-Kongo-converter-malog-als-system partner) underline that the project was implemented in close cooperation with Dermalog as the technical partner of the Foreign Ministry.

The new pass combines paper -based elements with the most modern electronic components and meets the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO). The innovative security features include a contactless RFID chip, polycarbonate dates, holograms, UV prints and watermarks. These technologies should not only increase counterfeiting security, but also support smooth international travel.

complete solution for travelers

As part of the comprehensive solution from Dermalog, 100 biometric detection stations were installed. 50 of them are inpatient and mobile in Germany, while the other 50 operate in diplomatic representations worldwide. These stations are equipped with modern technology, including fingerprint and iris scanners as well as document scanners and signature pads. According to the reports of Foreign Minister Thérèse Kayikwamba Wagner, this measure represents a predictive reaction to international standards.

The process of passing is supported by a central production that ensures the daily edition of up to 2,400 passes. In this context, Günther Mull, Managing Director of Dermalog, emphasized the importance of digital sovereignty and the security of the new solution.

The development of biometric passports

biometric passports, also called EPASS, are the answer to the increasing security requirements worldwide and have increasingly come into focus, especially after the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001. The introduction of such passports was challenged internationally, which is why ICAO has been working towards the development of electronically evaluated biometric characteristics since 1998. According to Wikipedia, the new Congolese passport fulfills important criteria such as interoperability and technical reliability.

In many countries, including Germany, biometric travel passes have already been introduced. In its part, Germany introduced the first biometric passports on November 1, 2005, which are now equipped with fingerprints. Here, too, there are strict security mechanisms such as Basic Access Control (BAC) to ensure data protection. Nevertheless, there are indications of concerns about the central storage of biometric data and the possibility of unauthorized access, which plays a central role in discussions about data protection.

implications for the citizens

The new passport in the Democratic Republic of Congo aims to strengthen the rights of citizens with regard to their identity and at the same time promote modern digital agency services. As illustrates [AUBAUTERIGES-AMBEN.de] (https://www.auswaertiges-amt.de/de/reisepaesse- Personal cards/1908354), a valid passport for entry abroad is of central importance. A lack of passport can create considerable difficulties when entering or returning to Germany. Nevertheless, the Congolese government encourages its citizens to use the new security mechanisms and improved access to services.