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Apple Says U.S. Passport Feature on iPhone is Coming Soon

Apple says U.S. Passport feature on iPhone is coming soon — a move that could make digital identity more convenient for millions of travelers. Jennifer Bailey, Apple’s vice president of Apple Pay and Apple Wallet, confirmed the update during her keynote at the Money20/20 USA conference in Las Vegas on Sunday.

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According to Apple’s iOS 26 page, the long-awaited digital passport feature will be “coming later this year.” This aligns with Apple’s continued push toward making the Wallet app a one-stop hub for secure identity verification.

What the New Digital U.S. Passport Feature Means for iPhone Users

Once launched, users will be able to add a digital version of their U.S. passport directly into the Wallet app. This will allow travelers to present their digital ID at TSA checkpoints in select U.S. airports for domestic travel.

However, Apple clarified that the digital passport won’t replace your physical passport — it can’t yet be used for international travel or border crossings. Instead, it’s a convenient addition for identity verification within the United States.

Security and Privacy Built Into Apple Wallet

Apple emphasized that the upcoming digital ID and passport features are secure, private, and REAL ID compliant. The information will be encrypted and stored on-device, ensuring users maintain full control over their data.

Additionally, Apple plans to allow the feature to be used for age and identity verification across apps, websites, and even in retail stores — extending beyond travel use cases.

When Will the Feature Arrive?

While Apple says the U.S. Passport feature on iPhone is coming soon, the exact release timing remains uncertain. Previously, Apple mentioned that a software update would be required to enable the feature. Now, the company’s website has removed that note — leaving open the possibility that it could roll out via a server-side update instead of requiring iOS 26.1 or iOS 26.2.

Given Apple’s track record, this could hint at a late 2025 release, possibly in time for the holiday travel season.

Apple Wallet’s Growing Ecosystem

During her talk, Bailey also shared impressive stats showcasing how rapidly Apple Wallet is expanding:

• Apple Pay is now available in 89 countries and regions.

• 90% of U.S. retailers accept Apple Pay.

• The Car Key feature supports over 300 vehicle models across 29 brands.

• The Hotel Key feature works with 65,000+ hotel rooms globally.

• Tap to Pay on iPhone is now live in 48 countries and regions.

These updates underline Apple’s growing influence in the digital wallet ecosystem, reinforcing how the iPhone is becoming central to everyday transactions — and soon, even your passport.

For now, the U.S. Passport feature on iPhone remains limited to U.S. citizens, but Apple may expand to other countries in the future as it partners with governments and regulators.

With Apple’s focus on security, privacy, and convenience, the company continues to lead the digital identity revolution — turning your iPhone into the most powerful ID in your pocket.