Emergency and Travel Passes Introduced with Enhanced Security Measures Starting in April
In urgent travel situations, individuals in Austria now have a new option for obtaining a travel document. The 'Notpass' is a cream-coloured, chipless passport designed to help those who have lost their personal passport or ID card, or whose documents can no longer be used.
Starting from April 1st, the new Notpass will be issued by the responsible authority, even outside of regular office hours via an on-call service. There is no special application form required - you simply apply directly at the authority. The Notpass is valid for a limited, specific period, usually just for the duration of your travel. In exceptional justified cases, it can be valid for up to one year.
However, it's essential to note that not all countries accept the Notpass. For example, entry into the USA under the Visa Waiver Program is not possible with a Notpass. To enter the USA, you need a visa obtained through the US representation, involving an interview, a fee of about 170 euros, and a processing time of at least two working days.
The new Notpass design includes a compact overview of the document, its security features, and how to check them. One such security feature is the Laser Image Perforation, which is also present in the new Austrian passport to be introduced in 2023. This feature involves 'burning' the portrait image into the data page of the passport using a laser. When the data page is viewed against the light, a detailed image of the portrait appears.
The Laser Image Perforation contributes to the protection against forgeries in Austrian passports by perforating the data page and security laminate. It is a means of enhancing the security of the current generation of Austrian passports. The new design of the Notpass also includes the word 'Austria' in Braille on its cover, making it more accessible to visually impaired individuals.
For those interested in checking the security features of the new Notpass, the Ministry of the Interior provides the CHECK-AT Service website (www.check-at.gv.at). This platform allows users to verify the authenticity of the Notpass, ensuring peace of mind during travel.
When planning an urgent journey, the Notpass can be a valuable solution. However, it's crucial to check the entry requirements of your destination carefully to avoid any issues. For less urgent situations, you might consider an Expresspass or a One-Day Expresspass instead.
The new Notpass, issued by the Austrian authority, is designed for travel situations when an individual has lost their personal passport or ID card, or their documents are no longer usable. However, the Notpass is only valid for a limited period, usually during one's travel, and may not be accepted by all countries, such as the USA, where a visa obtained through the US representation is required for entry.
