Proposed changes to collection of Biometric information by USCIS before issuing a visa

The Department of Homeland Security just announced that it will be expanding its biometric collection process. In the past, in order to satisfy background security checks when applying for a green card, employment card or many other immigration benefits, an applicant only had his, or her, fingerprints and electronic photo taken. Now, USCIS will also be able to collect voice, iris (eye scan) and facial recognition. In some cases, DNA will also be collected.

The new processes will not be rolled out for several months, and may only be used selectively; but it demonstrates the government’s efforts to try to keep up with the latest technology. This data, once collected, is used to run the person’s name against databases found in the FBI, CIA, DEA and Interpol.