ROP adds new security features to Omani passports, launch today

(MENAFN- Muscat Daily) New Omani passports with added security features will be launched by the ROP on Thursday at its headquarters in Seeb.

The ROP had initiated the project in April 2014 in association with a German firm. Passports for nationals issued henceforth will use the smart card technology and come with a microchip containing the holder's information including his biometric identity a digital image and electronic signature.

Brig Abdullah bin Mohammed al Jabri director general of human resources and chairman of the e-passports committee said 'The digital image of the passport holder will conform with the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) standards.'

Brig Jabri added that the main objectives of this project are to meet ICAO guidelines and prevent misuse of vital travel documents. Col Hilal bin Ahmed al Busaidi director general of passports and residence said that the new passports will be issued at the department of civil status and passports.

'The new passports have personal details photograph biometric data and other security features stored in the chip. The chip will help unearth forgeries if any' he said.