What is the Biométric CURP?
The Mexican Chamber of Deputies has approved a reform that paves the way for the creation of the Unique Population Registry Code (CURP) with biométric data. This document will be mandatory and serve as a national identification for all individuals in Mexico.
The reform includes elements such as:
- 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 to locate missing persons, interconnecting databases like the National Registry of Missing Persons and the Forensic Data Bank. This will generate alerts upon detecting misuse.
- Institutions handling 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 applied; results must be registered in the Forensic Data Bank within 3 days.
- A National Case File Base will be created for missing person 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 Leads the Piloting Phase
Starting in 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,” he said, based on his experience in the municipality.
What Happens After Approval?
- Publication in the DOF: The federal executive must publish and promulgate the reform. From that date, the implementation period will begin.
- Gradual Implementation Start: A transitional period of up to 90 days after publication is estimated before the progressive application begins nationwide.
- Regulation and Oversight: Authorities must respect the Personal Data Protection Law. Misuse of the Unique Identity Platform will be considered a serious offense, subject to fines of up to 20,000 UMAs (approximately 2.26 million pesos).
When Will It Be Mandatory?
Although there’s no definitive date, 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 for integrating biométric data of girls, boys, and adolescents into Renapo, in coordination with authorities from all levels of government.”
Key Questions and Answers
- What is the CURP biométrico? The CURP biométrico is a mandatory national identification document in Mexico that includes biometric data such as fingerprints and facial recognition.
- What does the approved reform entail? The reform includes creating a digital CURP, requiring institutions to use it for identity verification, establishing a platform for locating missing persons, and ensuring data protection regulations are followed.
- Which states will pilot the CURP biométrico? Veracruz municipalities like Xalapa, Poza Rica, Coatzacoalcos, Misantla, and Tantima will participate in the pilot program starting in 2024.
- When will the CURP biométrico be mandatory? The CURP biométrico is expected to become mandatory in the second half of 2025.
