Traveling internationally and exploring different cultures can be exciting. However, entering and verifying traveler’s information at checkpoints can also be time-consuming. Fortunately, the introduction of mobile passport scanning has simplified the process, eliminating the need for physical documents. Below are key ways the technology is transforming international travel and the overall hospitality industry.
Accelerating Identity Verification
Traditional passport control procedures often involve manually scanning travel documents, resulting in prolonged wait times. In high-traffic areas like airports and hotels, travelers wait hours for staff to type personal information into systems. This leads to frustration and higher chances of travel cancellation. Mobile passport scanning addresses the issues, allowing travelers to submit their information and customs declaration electronically via smart devices.
An advanced mobile passport scanner enables travelers to submit their passport details through a secure platform even before arriving at the entry points. This pre-submission facilitates faster processing upon arrival, significantly reducing inspection and wait times. Travelers can also use identity scanning applications to submit details about their plans and the purpose of their stay. Doing this means users can skip the traditional paperwork procedures involved in hotel reservations.
Enhanced Data Security and Accuracy
Mobile passport scanning enhances data security and accuracy by minimizing the physical handling of documents and human errors. Mobile document scanners process information solely on the device, preventing it from reaching third-party servers.
Sensitive details can also be encrypted at rest and in transit. This extra security layer ensures the information submitted is tamper-proof. Moreover, many mobile scanning devices can work offline, making them a secure alternative to dedicated hardware scanners that rely on an internet connection.
Regarding accuracy, mobile passport scanners are considered more accurate than manual data entry. People often make mistakes when typing traveler’s names, ID numbers, and other critical information. In most cases, they may not notice the mistakes, especially in environments requiring rapidly entering bulk data.
Conversely, mobile scanners can automatically extract passport information within seconds and with high accuracy. This saves travel agencies enormous losses that result from inaccurate data and staff training.
Increased Flexibility and Convenience
Until recently, passport scanners required specialized equipment, which were often costly. Travel agencies also needed to train their staff to use these tools, leading to more expenses. Physical scanning equipment also occupied valuable workspace and required employees to be around all the time. However, mobile passport scanners have taken airport operations to a new level, allowing travelers to complete verification at their own pace.
Travel agencies can open new checkpoints for customers, provided they have an integrated passport scanner app. This enhances traveler convenience, especially for groups or families that need faster and more confidential processing at checkpoints. Many international airports are also combining mobile passport scanning with eGates, which provides a faster and safer way to go through passport control systems.
Endnote
Mobile passport scanners are shaping international travel by streamlining identity verification, improving data security, and improving overall traveler convenience. The technology also benefits the accommodation industry by speeding up guest check-in and enhancing compliance with customer data protection. However, travel agencies must ensure that the scanning system is easy to use with existing security systems and offers multilingual support to accommodate international travelers.
