Mexico’s Biometric CURP: Key Details & Security

Mexico City — As its official implementation in October approaches, Mexico's biometric CURP continues to generate both interest and concern among citizens. The doubts primarily center on how the new document will function and the security of the personal data it will collect.

According to the Federal Government, the biometric CURP—which will not replace the INE voter ID card as an official identification—aims to modernize citizen identification and streamline official procedures. However, the use of technology such as fingerprint scanning, facial recognition, and even iris scanning has raised alarms among cybersecurity experts, who warn of the risks in handling this sensitive information.

What is the Biometric CURP and Why is it Important?

The biometric CURP is an updated version of the Single Population Registry Code (CURP) that incorporates identification elements such as a photograph, digital fingerprints, iris scan, electronic signature, and a QR code. It is important to clarify that this new version will retain the 18-character alphanumeric format of the current CURP.

On June 16, the Federal Government published the decree in the Official Journal of the Federation (DOF) that reforms the General Population Law for the creation of the biometric CURP. This norm also grants the Ministry of the Interior, through the National Population Registry (RENAPO), the responsibility of collecting and administering the biometric data.

Furthermore, it establishes the creation of a Unique Identity Platform, which will be managed by the Agency for Digital Transformation and Telecommunications, and which will have the objective of operating the digital version of this document.

When Does the Biometric CURP Take Effect?

The biometric CURP took effect on July 17, following its publication in the DOF. Since then, a 90-calendar-day period began for both public and private institutions to take the necessary measures to adopt it.

This means that the digital issuance of the new CURP will begin on October 14. It is expected to become mandatory starting in February 2026.

Where is the Biometric CURP Processed?

The biometric CURP will be processed at Civil Registry offices. Starting from the implementation date, the authorities will establish the modules where the procedure can be completed. In the pilot phase, modules have already been enabled in some states, including Veracruz, Mexico City, and the State of Mexico.

What are the Requirements for Processing the Biometric CURP?

To obtain the biometric CURP, citizens will need to present a series of documents, which can include:

• A certified and updated birth certificate.
• A valid official identification (INE voter ID or passport).
• A traditional CURP validated before the National Population Registry (RENAPO).
• Proof of address no older than three months.
• An active email address.

The processing procedure will include the capture of digital fingerprints, a photograph, and other biometric data, and is estimated to take between 20 and 30 minutes.

How Will Biometric Data Be Protected?

The protection of biometric data will be a priority. According to the reform, this personal data will be protected in accordance with the applicable laws and legal provisions regarding the protection of personal data. This includes the implementation of robust security protocols to prevent the misuse of information.

In an interview, the cybersecurity firm IQSEC warned that although the project is innovative, it faces considerable risks. To mitigate potential data leaks or identity theft, it proposed:

• Protecting the database through advanced encryption and information segmentation.
• Ensuring integrity throughout the entire identity lifecycle.
• Implementing multi-factor authentication mechanisms and constant monitoring of the CURP's use.