NFC reading is one. That's why lots of Governments publish apps - it's a reliable way to check your passport if you need a visa etc.

It might be coming to the web - https://developer.mozilla.org/en-US/docs/Web/API/Web_NFC_API

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cjrp 5 hours ago | parent [-]

Do they require it though? I've used a few, but it's always been a convenience thing to use the NFC-scanning app; the alternative is just typing in the details manually.

	▲	troyjfarrell 4 hours ago \| parent \| next [-]
		Kazakhstan has an app (QazETA) for its electronic travel authorization, which is required for many passport holders who want to enter under the visa-free regime. (Perhaps it is not strictly required as one could apply for a visa instead.) Somewhat confusingly, the iOS App Store description [0] of the app says that it is not a government app, while the rest of the internet and Kazakh government sites say that it is the official government app for the purpose of applying for the ETA. [0]: https://apps.apple.com/app/id6748705452
	▲	edent 4 hours ago \| parent \| prev [-]
		Yes. It offers cryptographic proof that you physically have the passport with you. It also gets a digital copy of the photo and other biometrics held on the NFC chip. From a user point of view it reduces the number of typos entered.