Finland has been at the forefront of testing Digital Travel Credentials (DTC), making it the first country in the world to explore this innovative approach.These digital travel documents are designed to enhance convenience and efficiency for travellers. 

Key points to note about Digital Travel Document testing

The following are the key points to note about Digital Travel Document and its testing before we discuss its expansion.

• What Are Digital Travel Documents?

Digital travel documents are virtual credentials derived from traditional passports which serve as exact replicas of the electronic machine-readable travel documents (eMRTDs). Its Key components include the holder’s facial image, biographical data, and security features

• Finland’s Pioneering Efforts

Finland launched digital travel document testing in August 2023, initially limited to select flights and locations. The testing, now expanded to 19 additional locations, continues until March 31, 2024, showcasing Finland's dedication to advancing travel technology for enhanced citizen experience and global interoperability.

The table below shows a summary of Finland's Digital Travel Document Testing Program

• How DTC Works

DTC is a digital format of the regular passport that ensures reliable security while allowing travellers to undergo airport procedures faster. The average inspection time for a digital travel document is less than ten seconds. Passengers experience a smooth entry process without compromising safety.

• Recognition and Expansion

Finland’s DTC was recognized by Time as one of the groundbreaking inventions in the “Apps and Software” category. Croatia is also testing digital travel documents to improve passenger experience. The project aims to facilitate travel and streamline border crossings for a more seamless journey

Expansion of Digital Travel Document

Finland has expanded its testing of Digital Travel Credentials (DTC) to 19 additional destinations beyond the initial routes. Previously, Finnish citizens could test digital travel documents only on Finnair flights to and from London, Manchester, and Edinburgh. 

Now, passengers travelling to or from the following destinations can also test their digital travel documents at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport. The table below shows the 19 destinations; 

Destinations eligible for testing Finland's Digital Travel Document (DTC) at Helsinki-Vantaa Airport:

Advantages of DTC over the traditional paper passport

The digital travel document has a number of advantages over the traditional paper passport. 

• It is more secure. The information stored on the digital document is encrypted and cannot be easily accessed by unauthorised individuals.
• It is more convenient. Travellers will no longer need to worry about losing their passport or having it stolen.
• It is more environmentally friendly. The digital document does not require the use of paper or ink.

FAQS

What does Finland's expanded testing network allow?

It enables travellers departing from 19 more global airports to take the mandatory COVID-19 tests digitally on arrival in Finland via automated facilities.

How does digital testing work for travellers?

Passengers enter Finland through automated border gates and get instructed to take the test in special digital booths and receive the results directly to their devices in about 4 hours.

Is digital testing mandatory for eligible travellers?

No, it remains voluntary. But it skips queues and waives test certificate requirements before boarding Finland-bound flights.

Which locations now have the digitised entry testing option?

Helsinki airport initially launched it. The addition of 19 intercontinental hubs like Delhi, Tokyo, LAX and DXB widens eligibility for more travellers.

Has expanding digital testing benefited passenger volumes?

Officials report passenger feedback, testing uptake and arrival numbers confirm the smoother entry experience is achieving a key goal of reviving tourism and business travel.