ID Tech

Biometric ID Cards

Biometric ID cards embed fingerprints or facial data on a chip for secure identity verification in travel and public services.

Biometric ID cards store biometric templates on a secure chip to verify the holder and prevent fraud during identity checks.

Latest Updates

  • 2025-07-01: Switzerland confirmed biometric ID cards will launch by end-2026, storing face and fingerprints on a secure chip in line with EU Regulation 2019/1157.

References

Vendors using Biometric ID Cards

IDEMIAThales Group

Latest Data Cards

  • Data Card

    DNP clears acceptance threshold in AUSTRIACARD takeover

    2026-08-28CC-BY-4.0biometric-id-cards

    Dai Nippon Printing secured 96.55 percent of tendered shares in its €364 million takeover of AUSTRIACARD HOLDINGS, pending Austrian foreign investment clearance.

    • DNP secured 96.55 percent of tendered shares against a 75 percent threshold.
    • The transaction is valued at €364 million.
    • Merger clearances were obtained in Austria, Germany, and Turkey, with Austrian FDI approval outstanding.
    Open card
  • Data Card

    Switzerland sets November 2 start for its biometric identity card

    2026-08-26CC-BY-4.0biometric-id-cardsnational-eid

    The Swiss Federal Council set November 2, 2026 as the start date for a biometric identity card storing a facial image and two fingerprints on a secure chip.

    • The card carries a microchip holding a facial image and two fingerprints.
    • The specification aligns with European Union travel document standards.
    • Citizens may still request a standard non-biometric card for domestic use.
    Open card
  • Data Card

    Haiti secures $3 million OAS-Japan deal for 350,000 biometric ID cards

    2026-08-21CC-BY-4.0biometric-id-cards

    Haiti signed a $3 million agreement with Japan and the Organization of American States to fund 350,000 biometric identity cards and mobile registration units.

    • The agreement funds 350,000 new biometric ID cards.
    • It includes mobile registration units for remote communities.
    • The programme aims to update civil registries amid ongoing security challenges.
    Open card
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Frequently Asked Questions

What is a biometric ID card?
A physical identity card containing a chip with biometric templates such as fingerprints.
Where are biometric ID cards used?
They are used in national ID programs and for travel documents.
Are biometrics stored securely?
Yes, data is typically encrypted and access-protected on the card chip.
How are cards verified?
Inspectors read the chip and validate signatures using PKI (e.g., CSCA/DSC for eMRTD) and check data consistency with the printed document.