Seamfix, a prominent provider of digital identity and biometric solutions that supports institutions across Africa and globally, has successfully developed ePass, a self-service digital passport renewal application specifically designed for citizens of the Republic of Benin. This innovative application streamlines the passport renewal process, making it accessible and efficient for Beninese citizens, particularly those residing abroad.

The ePass application is powered by GovSmart, Seamfix's robust government digital identity and service delivery platform. Its development was a collaborative effort, delivered in partnership with the Government of the Republic of Benin, highlighting a concerted drive towards modernizing public services through digital transformation. This initiative signifies a significant step in enhancing citizen access to essential government functions.

A core feature of the ePass application is its ability to enable Beninese citizens living outside their home country to apply for and renew their international passports entirely online. This eliminates the traditional requirement of visiting embassies or consular offices, which can often be a time-consuming and geographically challenging endeavor for expatriates. Through a secure mobile application, eligible citizens can complete their entire passport renewal process from the comfort of their homes.

The comprehensive digital process facilitated by ePass includes several key steps: citizens can securely submit their biometric data, upload all necessary supporting documents, make required payments digitally, and track the real-time status of their application. Once the renewal process is complete, the renewed passports can be conveniently received either via courier delivery directly to their location or through pickup at an designated embassy, offering flexibility and convenience.

Chimezie Emewulu, the Group Chief Executive Officer of Seamfix, articulated the company's vision, stating, "At Seamfix, our goal is simple: enabling people to securely prove who they are so they can access the opportunities they deserve. With ePass, distance is no longer a barrier to trusted identification or access to essential government service." He further emphasized that Seamfix's UK-based operations provide direct access to global banking and payment infrastructure, enabling seamless support for governments and citizens across Africa and worldwide. By removing the need for long-distance travel, time away from work or school, and extended embassy visits for biometric capture, ePass significantly expands equal access to public services and reinforces every individual's fundamental right to their identity.

Frank Atube, the Chief Operating Officer of Seamfix, highlighted the foundational role of GovSmart. According to Atube, "GovSmart provides governments with a scalable foundation for secure digital service delivery. The ePass deployment demonstrates how digital identity systems can be designed to meet national requirements while remaining secure, inclusive, and scalable." He concluded by affirming that this project illustrates how governments can effectively modernize critical citizen services without compromising control, compliance, or future expansion capabilities, setting a precedent for other nations aiming for digital transformation.