The Federal Government is moving to update immigration rules to allow for the digital capture of passport information.

This technology would allow applicants to scan their electronic passports (ePassports) remotely to automatically fill out their forms.

By using this system, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) aims to reduce manual data entry errors and verify the authenticity of travel documents when an application is submitted.

While the new process adds an extra step for those applying for visas or travel authorizations, officials believe it will strengthen identity management.

Some experts in the tourism industry have expressed concern that the added requirement could discourage visitors, though similar systems are already in place or planned by the US, the UK, and the European Union.

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