UNHCR's LISA Kiosk: Biometric Tech for Refugee ID Verification

Published Date : 7/10/2025 

UNHCR's new biometric LISA kiosk is transforming refugee identity verification by allowing self-service access, reducing wait times, and improving data accuracy. This innovative solution aims to streamline refugee registration and enhance digital identity management globally. 

The United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) has taken a significant step forward in digital innovation with the pilot launch of its Localized Identification and Self-service Access (LISA) kiosk. This biometric kiosk is designed to empower refugees to verify their presence and update their records independently, cutting down administrative burdens and boosting efficiency. The initiative, part of UNHCR's broader Digital Gateway strategy, represents a shift toward self-managed digital services for displaced populations. By leveraging biometric technology, the LISA kiosk is set to redefine how refugee identity verification is conducted in resource-constrained environments. n n nTraditionally, verifying refugee identities has been a time-consuming and costly process. UNHCR reports that manual verification often costs around $10 per person and can take days or weeks, especially in areas with limited staff and infrastructure. These delays not only strain administrative resources but also hinder timely data updates, which are critical for effective planning and aid distribution. The LISA kiosk addresses these challenges by offering a streamlined, self-service solution. Refugees can now verify their identities at their convenience, reducing wait times from hours to minutes and significantly lowering operational costs. This shift is particularly impactful in regions where refugee populations are large and resources are stretched thin. n n nThe LISA kiosk operates through a user-friendly touchscreen interface, allowing refugees to authenticate their identities using fingerprint or facial biometrics. Once verified, users can review their registered information and, if discrepancies are found, request an in-person appointment. A key feature of the system is its commitment to data privacy: no personal information is stored on the kiosk itself, ensuring compliance with UNHCR's stringent data protection standards. This approach not only safeguards sensitive information but also builds trust among users, who may be hesitant to engage with digital systems due to privacy concerns. n n nOne of the most notable benefits of LISA is its ability to improve biometric enrollment rates. In some regions, enrollment rates for refugees have historically ranged between 60% and 80%, but the kiosk's intuitive design and accessibility are expected to drive these numbers higher. By making the verification process faster and more transparent, LISA encourages greater participation, which is essential for accurate record-keeping and service delivery. Additionally, the system helps eliminate duplicate records, a common issue in refugee registration that can lead to inefficiencies and errors. With a cost of approximately $6,000 per kiosk, the solution offers a cost-effective alternative to traditional methods, especially when scaled across multiple locations. n n nThe pilot program in Kampala, Uganda, has been a resounding success, with refugees reporting that the system is easy to use, particularly for literate individuals. Uganda's large refugee population and its supportive environment for digital innovation made it an ideal testing ground. Feedback from the trial is already shaping refinements for the wider rollout, which is scheduled for late 2025. The kiosks require only electricity and an internet connection, making them adaptable to various settings, including UNHCR offices, government facilities, and community centers. This flexibility positions LISA as a scalable solution for global deployment. n n nBeyond its immediate benefits, the LISA kiosk is a cornerstone of UNHCR's Digital Gateway initiative, which aims to create a secure, self-managed digital ecosystem for displaced people. By integrating with existing registration systems, LISA will serve as a critical access point for refugees seeking to manage their digital identities. This integration not only enhances user experience but also ensures that data is consistently updated and accessible to authorized personnel. As digital identity becomes increasingly vital for accessing services like healthcare, education, and employment, LISA's role in bridging this gap cannot be overstated. n n nThe success of LISA highlights the potential of biometric technology to address complex humanitarian challenges. By reducing administrative overhead and empowering refugees to take control of their verification processes, the kiosk exemplifies how innovation can drive efficiency and dignity. As UNHCR prepares for a broader rollout, the focus remains on continuous improvement, ensuring that the system meets the evolving needs of displaced populations. With its emphasis on user experience, data security, and scalability, LISA is poised to become a model for refugee identity verification worldwide. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQS): 

Q: What is the LISA kiosk, and how does it work?

A: The LISA kiosk is a self-service biometric system developed by UNHCR to enable refugees to verify their identities using fingerprint or facial recognition. Users can review their information, correct discrepancies, and request in-person appointments, all through an intuitive touchscreen interface.

Q: How does LISA reduce administrative costs for refugee registration?

A: By allowing refugees to verify their presence independently, LISA minimizes the need for manual processing, which traditionally costs $10 per person and takes days. The kiosk reduces wait times from hours to minutes, significantly lowering operational expenses.

Q: What measures ensure data privacy with the LISA kiosk?

A: No personal data is stored on the kiosk itself, and the system complies with UNHCR's strict data-protection standards. This approach safeguards sensitive information while building trust among users.

Q: What are the key benefits of the LISA kiosk for refugees?

A: LISA improves biometric enrollment rates, eliminates duplicate records, and provides a faster, more transparent verification process. It also empowers refugees to manage their digital identities independently, enhancing their access to critical services.

Q: How is the LISA kiosk being rolled out globally?

A: After a successful pilot in Kampala, Uganda, LISA is set for a broader rollout in 2025. The kiosks are designed to be deployed in UNHCR offices, government facilities, and community centers, requiring only electricity and an internet connection for operation. 

More Related Topics :