China embarked on a transformative journey in passport technology with the launch of its Diplomatic ePassport on November 15, 2021.
Subsequently, on July 1, 2023, China implemented the issuance of new Service ePassport and the Passport for Public Affairs.
The launch of the new version of the ePassports marks a significant breakthrough compared to previous versions. These milestones signify a remarkable leap forward in both security and technology within China's passport issuance system.
The Evolution of the Chinese ePassport: From Paper-based to Polycarbonate (PC)-based Data-page, From Black & White Photo to Color Photo.
The Diplomatic ePassport introduces a groundbreaking upgrade with the adoption of PC-based data-page containing the chip, replacing the traditional paper-based version. More and more countries globally are embracing this material for their new ePassport issuance, highlighting China's progressive stance in passport innovation and setting a trend.
Besides the breakthrough in materials, there has been a significant advancement in the personalization as well. On PC-based data-page, the passport photo has been upgraded from a laser-engraved black and white one to a color one, greatly improving security, durability, innovation, and authenticity.
The Cutting-Edge Multi-Layer Personalization (MLP) Technology
At the heart of these advancements in the new ePassports lies EMPTECH's Multi-Layer Personalization (MLP) technology.
This cutting-edge innovation delivers highly secure ICAO-compliant ePassports with vibrant true-color photos on PC-based data-page. The key feature—where each layer is personalized and unique—makes the ePassport nearly impossible to counterfeit. Additionally, the reliable printing technology significantly enhances the durability of the passport.
The Innovative Observation Page
On the observation page, there is a 3rd photo of the passport holder in vivid color, printed using DoD UV inkjet technology and the same personalization system. Another innovation on this page is the digital identity "EMPCode", the EMPCode securely stores the holder's information, enabling identity verification in specific scenarios. One of its key features is the capability for offline verification.
Intelligent Centralized and Decentralized Personalization System
The cutting-edge ePassports were achieved through EMPTECH's advanced personalization system, which have greatly enhanced printing quality and efficiency. The two types of systems, MLP DeskBook and MLP ProBook, offer more suitable and practical solutions for issuance centers with varying volume demands.
Learn more about MLP DeskBook, MLP ProBook
EMPTECH has been initially awarded the Ordinary ePassport project, followed by the Hong Kong ePassport project, and then the Chinese Diplomatic ePassport project, as well as the Service ePassport and Public Affairs ePassport projects. The trust and recognition our High-Performance MLP Technology and Intelligent Centralized and Decentralized Personalization System have garnered from both our esteemed partners and end-users fill us with an immense sense of pride and gratitude.
References
With trusted technologies and services, EMPTECH has successfully applied our advanced anti-counterfeiting security features and personalization technologies to government-issued credentials in more than ten countries and regions, including:
■ Chinese Citizen ePassport, Diplomatic ePassport and Service ePassport
■ Hong Kong SAR ePassport
■ Kazakhstani eID and ePassport
■ Kyrgyzstani eID and ePassport
■ Nepalese ePassport
■ Nigerian Voter Cards
■ Mainland Travel Permit Cards for Hong Kong and Macao Residents, and more.
