News in Brief

Japan’s Trust in OVD Security Grows

On 3 July 2024, the Bank of Japan (BoJ) began a new journey with holograms on banknotes, as it issued a new series of banknotes carrying holographic portraits. In the first design change in 20 years, the 10,000, 5,000, and 1,000 yen bills contain different stereographic portraits.

Moving forward, Japan is now proceeding with OVD protection for its nextgeneration e-passport.

Starting 24 March 2025, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs will begin issuing newly designed passports featuring a polycarbonate data page embedded with an integrated circuit chip. This chip stores biometric data, including facial recognition details and fingerprints, ensuring faster and more secure verification at border controls while reducing the risks of identity theft.

The data page also features a decorative sakura (cherry blossom) pattern that becomes visible when the passport is tilted. This optically variable feature reflects Japan’s cultural heritage and is a sophisticated anticounterfeiting measure.