January 5, 2004 - The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) today announced the launch of US-VISIT, "a new program to enhance the nation's security while facilitating legitimate travel and trade through our borders." New entry procedures took effect today for most foreign visitors with non-immigrant visas at 115 airports and cruise ship terminals at 14 seaports.

The system utilizes biometrics, which are physical characteristics unique to each individual, to verify identity. According to DHS, "US-VISIT requires that most foreign visitors traveling to the U.S. on a visa have their two index fingers scanned and a digital photograph taken to verify their identity at the port of entry. The US-VISIT program will enhance the security of U.S. citizens and visitors by verifying the identity of visitors with visas. At the same time, it facilitates legitimate travel and trade by leveraging technology and the evolving use of biometrics to expedite processing at our borders." For more information, visit www.dhs.gov/us-visit.