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Document Chip Scanning using NFC

IDnow DocIDV supports NFC scanning as an optional add-on feature for compatible identity documents and devices.

Many identity documents and passports contain an embedded chip that stores a cryptographically signed version of the document data. When NFC is available, IDnow DocIDV can read the chip content and validate the data using the relevant public key infrastructure.

The NFC step adds a stronger source of document data and authenticity evidence to the identity verification journey. It can help improve data extraction quality, strengthen document authenticity checks, and provide an additional layer of fraud protection.

All ICAO 9303 eMRTD-compliant documents are supported.

What the NFC step does​

NFC reading step

The NFC step allows the verification flow to:

  • read data directly from the document chip
  • retrieve a cryptographically protected version of document information
  • validate chip data using public keys
  • strengthen authenticity assessment
  • improve the quality and reliability of the document data used downstream

Because the information is read directly from the chip rather than only from document images, NFC can reduce reliance on visual-only analysis and provide stronger confidence in the captured identity data.

Benefits of NFC in DocIDV​

Using NFC can provide several advantages:

  • Improved data quality
    Data read from the chip is generally more reliable than data extracted only from document images.

  • Enhanced authenticity assurance
    The chip content can be validated cryptographically, helping confirm that the document is genuine.

  • Higher fraud protection
    NFC adds an additional control layer that can help detect certain document fraud scenarios.

  • Better user experience
    For supported documents and devices, NFC scanning can streamline the journey and improve completion quality.

How it fits into the verification flow​

When supported by both the scanned document and the user’s device hardware, the NFC step can be included as part of the DocIDV journey.

In supported flows, the NFC step replaces the hologram detection step in the ID verification journey. This means the verification process relies on chip-based validation instead of that visual document security check.

Requirements​

The NFC step depends on the following conditions:

  • the identity document must contain a supported NFC chip
  • the document must be compatible with ICAO 9303 eMRTD standards
  • the user device must support NFC hardware
  • the DocIDV integration must use the required NFC capability with our mobile SDK or native application.

If one of these conditions is not met, the journey must continue without NFC.