What is the Biométric CURP?
The Mexican Chamber of Deputies recently approved a reform that paves the way for the creation of the Unique Population Registry Code (CURP) with biométric data. This document will serve as a national identification for all individuals in Mexico and is mandatory.
The reform has been handed over to the federal executive for publication in the Diario Oficial de la Federación (DOF), marking the formal start of its implementation.
Key Elements of the Reform:
- The CURP will be the official identity document in both physical and digital formats, valid across Mexico, including a photograph and fingerprints.
- All institutions (public or private) must request the biométric CURP to provide services or validate identities in digital environments.
- A platform will be created for locating missing persons, interconnecting databases like the National Registry of Missing Persons and the National Forensic Data Bank, generating alerts upon detecting misuse.
- Institutions managing biométric data must allow access to the Fiscal General, state attorneys general, security cabinet, and the National Intelligence Center to strengthen investigations.
- Missing persons will have a physical and digital record that activates immediate alerts on the Unique Platform.
- Authorities must interconnect genetic, forensic, and investigative records, keeping them updated to improve person identification.
- Before sending remains to common graves, dactyloscopic and genetic tests will be conducted; results must be registered in the National Forensic Data Bank within 3 days.
- A National Case File Base will be created for disappearance cases, and personnel involved will receive certification.
- The Secretariat of Government will be responsible for integrating biométric data into the CURP under strict data protection regulations.
Veracruz: Pioneer in the Pilot Phase
Starting 2024, Veracruz municipalities like Xalapa, Poza Rica, Coatzacoalcos, Misantla, and Tantima will participate in the pilot project driven by the National Population Registry (Renapo).
In these localities, civil registry officials are already registering biométric data for free.
Joel Hernández Contrera, the Xalapa Civil Registry Officer, explained in July last year that this was a Renapo project leading to the upcoming issuance of the Unique Identity Card.
“It’s a free 20-minute process conducted by certified personnel,” Hernández Contrera said, based on his experience in the municipality.
What Happens After Approval?
- Publication in the DOF: The federal executive must promulgate and publish the reform. From that date, the implementation period will begin.
- Gradual Implementation Start: A transitional period of up to 90 days is estimated after publication, followed by progressive application nationwide.
- Regulation and Oversight: Authorities must respect the Personal Data Protection Law. Misuse of the Unique Identity Platform will be considered a serious offense, punishable with fines up to 20,000 UMAs (approximately 2.26 million pesos).
When Will It Be Mandatory?
Though no definitive date has been set, the biométric CURP is expected to take effect in the second half of 2025.
According to the reform, “The Secretariat of Government will carry out actions to integrate individuals’ biométric data into the CURP, strictly adhering to data protection regulations, both for subjects obligated and individuals. It will also establish a program to integrate biométric data of girls, boys, and adolescents into Renapo, in coordination with authorities from all three levels of government.”
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the CURP biométrica? The CURP biométrica is a unique population registry code with integrated biometric data, including fingerprints and photographs, serving as a national identification document for all individuals in Mexico.
- What does the approval mean? The approval marks the beginning of the formal implementation process, which will culminate in publication in the Diario Oficial de la Federación (DOF).
- What are the key elements of this reform? The reform includes making CURP biométrica mandatory, integrating it into digital services, creating a platform for locating missing persons, and ensuring strict data protection regulations.
- Which regions will participate in the pilot phase? Veracruz municipalities like Xalapa, Poza Rica, Coatzacoalcos, Misantla, and Tantima will participate in the pilot phase starting 2024.
- When will the CURP biométrica be mandatory? The CURP biométrica is expected to become mandatory in the second half of 2025.
