Fingerprint scanners in districts: Centre’s revised procedure for foreigners ID portal

By | June 9, 2025
Fingerprint scanners for foreigners used in district police stations under revised biometric procedure
Fingerprint scanners for foreigners used in district police stations under revised biometric procedure

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) of India has recently announced a significant revision in the The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has recently updated the procedure for capturing biometric data of foreign nationals in India. This change affects the Foreigners Identification Portal (FIP), a system that helps monitor and manage foreign nationals, especially those staying illegally. The new process requires the use of fingerprint scanners already available at district police stations. This aims to improve accuracy, speed, and efficiency.

Background: Issues with Previous Fingerprint Collection Methods

Since its launch in 2018, the FIP has been vital for managing foreign nationals. One important feature is the collection of fingerprint data. This helps authorities verify identities and track individuals.

Initially, fingerprints were collected manually or through the National Automated Fingerprint Identification System (NAFIS). However, this method caused several problems. Manual collection led to errors and poor-quality prints. Later, scanning paper-based prints for digital storage introduced discrepancies. These mistakes slowed down identity verification. They also caused delays in legal processes like deportations.

The situation was particularly sensitive in cases involving illegal migrants, including groups like the Rohingyas. Accurate biometric data was crucial for fair and lawful treatment.

New Procedure: Using District-Level Fingerprint Scanners

To fix these problems, the MHA has introduced a new method. Now, fingerprint scanners at district police stations will be used for data collection. These scanners are part of the District Police Module (DPM) under the Immigration Visa Foreigners Registration Tracking (IVFRT) system.

This change has several benefits:

  • Standardized Digital Capture: District police already use biometric scanners for many tasks. Using these scanners for foreigners’ fingerprint capture ensures a consistent digital process.
  • Better Accuracy: Digital capture directly from scanners reduces errors from paper scans. It ensures clearer, more reliable fingerprint images.
  • Easy Integration: The IVFRT system is connected with the DPM. Using the same scanners means data flows smoothly between systems. This helps update the Foreigners Identification Portal faster.
  • Decentralized Collection: Fingerprint collection becomes local. Districts can manage data without delays. This is important in areas with many foreign nationals.

Expected Benefits of the New Approach

The new procedure will improve the FIP’s performance. Some key benefits include:

  • Faster Processing: Accurate data speeds up identity checks. This helps with visa approvals, renewals, and deportations.
  • Stronger Security: Reliable biometrics help identify illegal migrants quickly. This boosts border and internal security.
  • Cost Efficiency: Using existing scanners avoids buying new devices. Also, less training is needed for staff.
  • Better Support for Sensitive Cases: Clearer data helps manage refugees and undocumented migrants fairly and quickly.
  • Improved Coordination: Standardized data collection promotes teamwork between police, immigration, and central agencies.

Broader Context: Enhancing Immigration Control

This revision is part of a bigger plan to improve India’s immigration controls. The government faces challenges with undocumented migrants and border security. The FIP is a key tool for managing foreigners legally and securely.

Using district-level fingerprint scanners fits with the government’s Digital India initiative. It aims to bring transparency, efficiency, and accountability to immigration processes.

Challenges and the Road Ahead

Despite improvements, some challenges remain:

  • Infrastructure Gaps: Not all districts have working fingerprint scanners or trained personnel. Investments will be needed to fill these gaps.
  • Data Privacy: Biometric data is sensitive. The government must protect it from misuse and cyber threats.
  • System Integration: Ideally, FIP data should link with other databases, such as Aadhaar and law enforcement records. Achieving this is complex.
  • Special Cases: Refugees and stateless persons need careful handling to balance security and humanitarian needs.

Still, this update is a positive step forward in managing foreign nationals.

Conclusion

The Centre’s move to use district-level fingerprint scanners for the Foreigners Identification Portal shows a practical solution to previous problems. It standardizes biometric data capture, making the process more accurate and efficient. This supports stronger immigration controls and digital governance.

If implemented well, the new system will enhance India’s ability to register and monitor foreign nationals properly. It promises faster processing, better security, and more reliable data for law enforcement and immigration authorities.