Changes to passport processing planned

[thewinchester]

DFAT's Passports group looking to upgrade systems and processes, CBP also set to follow with tender underway to replace passport readers at immigration arrivals and departure desks.

Changes to passport processing planned
CHALPAT SONTI, Fairfax via watoday.com.au
January 11, 2010

Radical changes to the way passports are processed are on the cards, with authorities looking to do away with paper forms and photos and move most of the application process online.

As part of plans to replace the decade-old Delta passport processing system - in order to cope with a surge in passport applications in the next few years - the Australian Passport Office is examining ways to speed up the process, with centralisation part of its plans.

Proposals in an APO document obtained by WAtoday.com.au show that instead of taking photos and signed forms and themselves to a passport office, applicants would have their photo and signature taken "live" electronically during the interview process, with the details uploaded online immediately.
...
The APO is not the only Government agency looking to update its passport technology.

Customs and Border Protection also recently started looking for new ePassport document readers at Australian international airports.

The agency says the readers need to be replaced to better detect fraudulent travel documents.

 

[Hvr]

Wonder why they think there will be a huge increase in the number of pasports being issued?

 

[Mal]

Wonder why they think there will be a huge increase in the number of pasports being issued?

My best guess is that they realise that a very large number of passports are expiring in the next X years ... keeping in mind that overseas travel 'for the masses' only really started in the late 90's / early 00's, and has been increasing hugely in the last few years.

 

[ethernet]

What is the cost/benefit to the punter who has to fork out $208?
I want to know why I get less service, but have to pay more?
The cost of Aussie passport is already above global benchmark prices.
What goldplated backend systems are we paying for?

If we get a card like USA, and take it for 'low risk' trips/people, that would speed things a lot. Things like GMR magstripes, or Japanese ink splutter are superior to biometrics. Get pre-cleared holiday trippers from NZ and Bali out the way - problem solved - if Indon and NZ agree on card.

Lateral thinking is if they install a system, on say a 380, passengers could self scan after takeoff and send face recognition correction factors ahead, so the scanner takes 2 seconds, not 30.

Noting USA passport and card is Cheaper - and without hefty fees.