Mexico Requires Biometric IDs for Citizens: Advantages and Worries

Published Date : 7/19/2025 

Mexico has introduced a mandatory digital identification system, the Unique Population Registry Code (CURP), which includes biometric data. The move aims to streamline administrative processes but has raised concerns about surveillance and data security. 

Mexico has officially introduced a digital identification system by signing a law that turned the previously optional biometric-based citizen code into a mandatory document for all citizens. Last month, legislators approved amendments to a law related to the 18-character personal identifier, known as the Unique Population Registry Code (CURP), with the change formalized on Wednesday through a decree.

The mandatory CURP will contain personal and biometric information, including a photograph and a QR code containing biometric fingerprint and iris data. The identifier is expected to be introduced gradually to all Mexicans by February 2026.

The government has also allowed the consolidation of the citizen codes into a single identity platform that will be connected to other state databases and administrative records. According to the decree, the Ministry of the Interior and the Digital Transformation Agency must create a Unified Identity Platform within 90 days, while public and private institutions will be required to update their systems to recognize the identifier.

The country also plans to kick-start a national program to collect biometric data from children and adolescents within 120 days, according to news outlet Mexico Business.

The first CURP was issued in 1996, allowing both citizens and residents to use it in tax filings, company records, schools, passport applications, and other government services. The biometric version of the code began rollout at the beginning of 2025.

Privacy advocates, however, have viewed the introduction of the mandatory biometric ID with suspicion, raising concerns that the CURP will lead to surveillance and data security issues. The new law, for instance, does not require authorities to inform citizens when their data is viewed or accessed.

“This puts us in a massive surveillance ecosystem with no provisions to identify wrong use of data, data breaches, identity theft, or acts of corruption,” José Flores, director of digital rights group R3D, told Context News.

CURP could also allow Mexico to establish data-sharing agreements with other countries, including a deportation deal with U.S. law enforcement agencies. Rights groups such as Article 19 believe that the ID will give intelligence services access to data without restrictions or transparency. Mexico’s national security agencies, such as the National Intelligence Centre and the National Guard, are among the government bodies that will gain access to the biometric data.

The government says that the misuse of sensitive data, including biometrics, is regulated by existing data privacy laws. “A wiretap can only be approved by a judge, according to the Constitution and the law,” Mexican President Claudia Sheinbaum said at the beginning of July.

The Unified Identity Platform will be able to connect to the National Registry of Missing and Unlocated Persons and the National Forensic Data Bank, allowing the country to combat the alarming trend of disappearances, according to the government. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is the CURP?

A: CURP stands for Clave Única de Registro de Población, which is a unique 18-character personal identifier for Mexican citizens. It includes personal and biometric information such as a photograph and a QR code containing fingerprint and iris data.

Q: When will the mandatory CURP be introduced?

A: The mandatory CURP is expected to be introduced gradually to all Mexicans by February 2026.

Q: What are the concerns about the mandatory CURP?

A: Privacy advocates are concerned that the CURP could lead to increased surveillance and data security issues. There are also concerns about the lack of transparency and the potential for misuse of biometric data.

Q: How will the CURP be used?

A: The CURP will be used for various administrative processes, including tax filings, company records, school applications, and passport applications. It will also be connected to other state databases and administrative records.

Q: What measures are in place to protect data?

A: The government claims that the misuse of sensitive data, including biometrics, is regulated by existing data privacy laws. However, privacy advocates argue that the new law lacks provisions for transparency and accountability. 

More Related Topics :