Mexico Mandates Biometric ID for All Digital Government Services

Mexico City — The Mexican Senate has approved the National Law to Eliminate Bureaucratic Procedures, which mandates the use of a biometric CURP (Unique Population Registry Code) and the Llave Mx platform for digital government transactions. The decree passed with 75 votes in favor and 37 against, following a contentious debate over privacy concerns and centralization of power.

New Digital Identification System

The law establishes the biometric CURP as a mandatory tool for authenticating citizens in digital procedures. The updated CURP will include fingerprints, facial photographs, electronic signatures, and iris scans, eliminating the need for in-person verification. Additionally, the Llave Mx platform will serve as a unique digital identifier, allowing secure access to government portals and enabling electronic document signing.

The legislation requires federal, state, and municipal governments to comply with standardized digital mechanisms. The Digital Transformation and Telecommunications Agency (ATDT), led by José Antonio Peña Merino, will oversee the national identity and digital authentication system.

Integration with Government Systems

The biometric CURP will integrate with existing databases, including the National Population Registry and the National Health System. Authorities claim this will streamline processes such as locating missing persons and managing public services.

Senator Verónica Camino of the ruling Morena party defended the law, stating it aims to reduce corruption, eliminate informal bribes ("moches"), and simplify bureaucratic procedures for citizens nationwide.

Opposition Raises Privacy Concerns

Despite government assurances, opposition lawmakers warned of potential risks. PRI Senator Carolina Viggiano argued the system could enable mass surveillance without judicial oversight or independent supervision. Legislators from the PAN and PRI expressed support for digitalization but criticized the current framework for jeopardizing privacy and data security.

Following the vote, Senate President Gerardo Fernández Noroña confirmed the decree will be sent to the federal executive for final approval, formalizing Mexico’s new digital public management model.