A method includes verifying the identity of an individual. A virtual passport for the individual is created upon verifying the identity of the individual. The virtual passport uniquely identifies the individual. A public/private key pair associated with the individual is generated. The virtual passport is signed with the private key. The signed virtual passport is entered in a public block chain. The signed virtual passport may be retrieved from the public block chain. The authenticity of the signed virtual passport may be determined via the public key.