By Michael Brandau, Chair of the Secure Identity Alliance's Border Working Group.

With technology, Covid-19, and a number of other factors driving major change at the border, the Secure Identity Alliance has updated Strong Identity Strong Borders, a guide designed to help anyone who wants to understand the subject more, but who is not an expert.

Strong Identity, Strong Borders introduces the key concepts and explores the evolution of border control, and how those responsible for safeguarding their territory can embrace new approaches around identity in order to create secure, seamless, and streamlined passenger experiences.

While domestic and international restrictions imposed to combat the spread of the COVID-19 virus have a tremendous impact on cross-border passenger volumes, and the longer-term picture remains unclear, it is no less important to continue to leverage the latest technologies to both strengthen borders and improve traveller experiences.

Over recent years, the technology has radically evolved in fields such as identity, security, biometrics and mobile applications to do exactly this. Technology has already transformed the world of border security and efficient processing of passengers, for example through secure ePassports (also known as electronic Machine Readable Travel Documents or eMRTD), automated eGates, biometrics used to assure visa regimes, and mobile boarding passes.

However, the story is far from complete. A newer generation of secure and efficient solutions are just beginning with the development of the Digital Travel Credential (DTC).