ICAO Public Key Directory (PKD)
The ICAO Public Key Directory (PKD) is a central repository for exchanging the information required to authenticate ePassports.
The security and facilitation advantages of an ePassport are grounded in the presence of an integrated closed circuit chip. However, those benefits can only be realized when border control authenticates the chip. If the chip is not authenticated at border control, the ePassport has little advantage over a traditional, non-electronic passport.
This authentication — usually referred to as ePassport validation—is the process of validating the authenticity and integrity of an ePassport by verifying the digital signature on the chip.
For the border control of a receiving State to authenticate the ePassport of a foreign traveler, the receiving State must have access to certain information from the issuing State. Should states only have the option to exchange the necessary information bilaterally, the volume of information being exchanged would result in a highly complex and ineffective system that would be susceptible to errors. The ICAO PKD provides an efficient means for States to upload their own information and download that of other States.
By playing the role of central broker for this information, the ICAO PKD ensures that information adheres to the technical standards required to achieve and maintain interoperability. In addition, the ICAO PKD ensures that information can be exchanged reliably, in a timely manner and on an open-ended, indefinite basis. Read the ePassport Basics section to learn more about the kinds of information needed to conduct ePassport validation.
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Benefits of participating in the ICAO Public Key Directory (PKD)
Benefits of participating in the ICAO Public Key Directory (PKD)
In this video, representatives of States that participate in the ICAO Public Key Directory (PKD) reflect on the benefits that they obtain from the PKD and explain why they consider the PKD to be an important component of their stat...
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Reflections from the incoming Chairperson of the ICAO Public Key Directory (PKD)
Reflections from the incoming Chairperson of the ICAO Public Key Directory (PKD)
Mr. Cor de Jonge took up the role of Chairperson of the ICAO PKD board in 2024. In this video, he conveys his hopes and intentions for development of the PKD program moving forward.
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Reflections from the outgoing Chairperson of the ICAO Public Key Directory (PKD)
Reflections from the outgoing Chairperson of the ICAO Public Key Directory (PKD)
Mr. Mario Wiesen was Chairperson of the ICAO PKD Board from 2017 to 2024. In this video, he reflects on some developments in the PKD during his time as Chairperson and conveys his pride in passing on stewardship of ...
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ICAO PKD - Benefits for ICAO Member States
The ICAO Public Key Directory (PKD) is a central repository for exchanging the information required to authenticate ePassports.
The security and facilitation advantages of an ePassport are grounded in the presence of an integrated closed circuit chip. However, those benefits can only be realize... -
ICAO PKD by Luxembourg
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Public Key Directory (PKD)
The ICAO Public Key Directory (PKD) was established to support States in gaining access to the public key information required to validate and authenticate ePassports and it is part of the ICAO Traveller Identification Programme (TRIP) Strategy . This presentation will highlight the benefits of j...
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Facilitation Programmes: General Overview
The main Facilitation objective is the efficient management of border control processes to expedite clearance of aircraft, passengers/crew, baggage and cargo. ICAO’s work in the field of Facilitation will be detailed for the three separate, but inter-related, programmes, Annex 9 — Facilitation,...
