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According to the DHS, US-VISIT requires that most foreign visitors traveling to the United States on a visa have their index fingers scanned and a digital photograph taken to verify their identity at the port of entry. The system utilizes biometrics, which are physical characteristics unique to each individual, to verify identity. Biometrics will first be collected from visa applicants at U.S. consular offices overseas to determine if the applicant has a criminal background or is on a list of suspected terrorists. The DHS has also begun a pilot test of exit procedures for departing passengers holding visas. A departure confirmation program using automated kiosks is being tested at Baltimore-Washington International Airport and at selected Miami Seaport cruise line terminals. Foreign visitors exiting the United States from these locations will be required to confirm their departure at the kiosk. US-VISIT officials will evaluate the tests and consider alternatives to the automated kiosks for departure confirmation throughout 2004. Congress has mandated that an automated entry-exit program be implemented at the 50 busiest land ports of entry by December 31, 2004, and at all land ports by December 31, 2005. The new program is expected to affect 24 million people visiting the United States per year. For more information on the new US-VISIT measures, visit: |
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