Test Tools for the New Face Image Data Interchange Format in ePassports

The ISO/IEC 39794 series of standards specifies new, extensible biometric data interchange formats based on ASN.1 (Abstract Syntax Notation One), yielding binary tag-length-value encodings. According to ICAO’s timeline, from 2026 onwards, newly issued electronic passports (ePassports) may use the new data formats, and ePassport inspection systems must be able to handle them. From 2030, all newly issued ePassports must use the extensible formats. Before roll-out, the new types of ePassports and inspection systems must be systematically tested. This paper discusses requirements for tools and data for tests regarding
the new face image data interchange format.