US Embassies to upgrade biometric technology visas

The US Embassy in Colombo on December 10 will begin collecting 10 fingerprints from all immigrant and non-immigrant visa applicants, implementing a procedure being put into place at all US visa-issuing facilities worldwide.

This builds on the collection of two fingerprints that began in 2004, and represents the latest evolution in using biometric technology to enhance the security of travel to the United States. Fingerprints will be collected electronically on the day of interview. The process only takes about 30 seconds.

There is no change in the requirements for who must provide fingerprints at the interview. As before, applicants for diplomatic or official visa classes, applicants under 14 or over 79 years and medical emergency cases are exempt from the requirement.

Following the transition to 10 prints, the Departments of State and Homeland Security will be able to more effectively process and clear visa applicant fingerprints.