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Q

Why is biometric facial recognition technology being used?

A

Facial recognition is considered the least intrusive biometric measure and has a high degree of accuracy when used for one-to-one matching. The ePassport photo provides a portable biometric identifier, meaning the traveller does not have to enroll or register.

more FAQs

What is SmartGate?
Who can use SmartGate?
Will trans-Tasman travellers still need a passport to enter Australia or New Zealand?
When will SmartGate be implemented?
Does SmartGate mean it’s easier for risky people to get into New Zealand?
How does SmartGate work?
What is an ePassport?
Will all travellers with ePassports have to go through the SmartGate kiosks?
What is facial recognition technology?
How does SmartGate help travellers?
Will SmartGate be quicker to use?
Can travellers wear glasses, hats, burqas or other headwear?
What happens if travellers change their hairstyle or weight, will they have trouble using SmartGate next time?
What happens after travellers pass through SmartGate?
Do travellers still need their Passenger Arrival Card?
What is the SmartGate ticket?
Can airline crews or people travelling on military orders use SmartGate?
How many New Zealanders have ePassports?
What personal information is on the ePassport microchip?
Does this new system mean biometrics are being introduced now?
What if I don’t want to give my biometric details?
How secure is the information on the ePassport chip?
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