NCJ Number
207840
Journal
Law Enforcement Technology Volume: 31 Issue: 5 Dated: May 2004 Pages: 8,10,12,14
Date Published
May 2004
Length
4 pages
Annotation
This article describes the US-VISIT program.
Abstract
Following the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, homeland security became a priority. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) designed the US-VISIT program to increase security through the use of biometric identifiers. The main goal of the program is to know when someone enters the country and when they leave. The biometric process involves the use of measurable physical characteristics or personal behavior traits to identify foreign travelers. In January 2004, 115 airports and 14 seaports in the United States began using the new biometric entry process. Along with the eligibility requirements of the Department of State and the DHS, the US-VISIT program incorporates a review of travel documents, two finger scans, and a digital photograph. Communication between United States and foreign officials is a key component to making the US-VISIT program effective. In the next trial of US-VISIT, entry and exit solutions will be established at all land borders. Complete installation at all land ports is expected by December 2005. Enforcement of the US-VISIT program will be the responsibility of Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE); ICE offers a 5-week training course on the basics of immigration enforcement.