Passport setup on Google Wallet soon, app hits record banks support

Google Wallet is rolling out some new features, one of which is the ability to store digital US passports. Announced in September 2024, this new feature is currently in beta testing. It aims to make travel smoother for users at certain TSA checkpoints.

Users can easily add passports to the Google Wallet by following a few easy steps. Just go to the “Add to Wallet” menu and check the option for “U.S. Passport (beta)” alongside other IDs like driver’s licenses.

Now, users take a photo of their passport’s information page and scan a security chip located on the back cover. To do this, they need to lay the passport flat, open the back cover, and move their phone around the chip area. Additionally, users must record a short video of their face for Google to verify their identity.

This passport feature is available mainly for domestic flights in the U.S. and devices that run Android 9 or higher. It uses NFC technology to securely share information.

In addition to the passport feature, Google Wallet is also expanding its support for banks. This expansion lets more people use Google Wallet for their financial needs. This month, it has added 17 new banks and a prepaid gift card option. These 17 banks are:

1. American Bank & Trust (SD)
2. Bank Of the Plains (KS)
3. Farmers Bank of Northern Missouri (MO)
4. First National Bank of Proctor (MN)
5. First State Bank of Burnet (TX)
6. Mastercard eGIFT
7. MyGeorgia Credit Union (GA)
8. Nova Bank (AL)
9. On Me
10. Palmetto State Bank (SC)
11. Petefish, Skiles & Co. Bank (IL)
12. Police Federal Credit Union (MD)
13. Riley State Bank of Riley, KS
14. Slope – IKEA
15. TIB, National Association (TX)
16. Travis Credit Union (CA)
17. United Minnesota Bank (MN)

Users can check the full list of supported banks on the updated support page if they want to see if their bank is supported by the Google Wallet app.