Islamabad, June 22, 2025: Apple is taking a bold step toward a digital-first future with its upcoming iOS 26 update, enabling U.S. iPhone users to store a digital passport ID directly in their Apple Wallet. This feature, expected to roll out later this year, adds to Apple’s vision of turning your smartphone into a secure hub for identity, payments, and travel.
Apple Wallet to Store Passport-Based Digital ID
The new iPhone digital ID feature will allow users to create a secure version of their U.S. passport, accessible via the Wallet app. While it won’t replace the physical passport for international travel, the digital ID will be accepted at select TSA checkpoints across the United States, streamlining domestic airport experiences.
As of now, only 14 airports in the U.S. and Puerto Rico support digital ID scanning via Apple Wallet, but this number is expected to rise steadily.
How Will the iOS 26 Digital Passport Work?
Users will likely go through a guided verification process involving:
- Scanning the physical passport,
- Capturing live selfies,
- Using Face ID for biometric validation.
This data will be submitted to the U.S. Department of State for approval. Once verified, the digital passport will be ready for use within the iPhone Wallet.
Expanding on Apple’s Digital Driver’s License Initiative
This update builds upon Apple’s earlier success with digital driver’s licences, available in:
- California
- Arizona
- Georgia
- Maryland
- Ohio
- Colorado
- Iowa
- Hawaii
- New Mexico
- Puerto Rico
With iOS 26, users from these and other states can expect broader support for digital identity services.
Digital ID Beyond Travel: Age and Identity Verification in Apps
More than just for airports, Apple’s digital ID will support age verification and digital identity checks across apps like financial platforms, online loan portals, and age-gated services. This ensures privacy and security in a digital environment.
International Use? Not Yet
For now, the iPhone passport feature will only support U.S. citizens and will not be valid for international travel. There’s no official word on Apple partnering with other governments, but global expansion will require strict legal alignments and international cooperation.
One Step Closer to a Paperless Identity
Apple continues to redefine mobile technology. With the iOS 26 digital ID, the company moves closer to making the iPhone a true digital passport — blending convenience, security, and innovation. For global travel, your physical passport still matters, but for domestic life, your iPhone might soon be all you need.
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