Idemia NA fingerprint biometrics contract for US immigration extended, upgrade coming

Idemia Identity & Security North America has had its biometrics contract with U. S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) extended through 2027.

The extension means Idemia I&S NA will provide biometric identity verification and criminal background screening as part of the immigration application process.

Idemia Livescan will be used to capture fingerprint biometrics from applicants and submit them to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) and Office of Biometric Identity Management (OBIM). USCIS then carries out the checks and makes a decision on the application.

Livescan systems are now in use at 130 USCIS Application Support Centers (ASCs) across America, and U.S. territories Saipan, Guam, the Virgin Islands, and Puerto Rico. Livescan is also used at USCIS Field Operations and Refugee, Asylum, and International Operations (RAIO) Directorates.

Idemia’s existing Livescan technology will be upgraded under the contract, which also includes an option to deploy document authentication systems and check-in kiosks at ASCs. Operations and maintenance support are also included.

The contract is also intended to support USCIS in improving the efficiency and accuracy of its biometric data to meet FBI image quality standards and prevent fraud.

“This award demonstrates our market leading position in pioneering innovative edge biometric solutions to support federal agencies in their vital missions,” comments Idemia Identity & Security North America Chief Executive Officer Donnie Scott. “Our newest generation Livescan will enhance the secure identity authentication process allowing for a more efficient and streamlined applicant experience.”

Idemia’s Teresa Wu has been propounding the importance of differentiating between biometric algorithms to optimize performance and avoid bias.

Article Topics

background checks  |  biometrics  |  fingerprint biometrics  |  government purchasing  |  Idemia Public Security  |  identity verification  |  immigration  |  USCIS