Fingerprint and Facial Scanners Arrive in Belize

Travellers at Belize’s airports will now pass through fingerprint and facial scanners supplied by the United States.

Belize, in partnership with the United States, officially launched a high-tech Biometric Data Sharing Programme aimed at securing the country’s borders and improving migration management.

The programme introduces advanced biometric technology, including fingerprint scanning and facial recognition, at airports and key border crossings. Authorities say the system will help law enforcement track potential threats more efficiently while also making travel smoother and safer for both citizens and visitors.

“These tools will help law enforcement track potential threats and ensure that those who wish to do harm have fewer places to hide,” said Home Affairs Minister Oscar Mira. “Ensuring that those who wish to do harm to our country find fewer places to hide and fewer opportunities to exploit.”

Mira stated that the programme demonstrates the shared beliefs of Belize and the United States in “transparency, accountability, and the rule of law”, while also reinforcing the partnership between the two countries.

He added that the expertise and professionalism of the Department of Border Management and Immigration Services and the Ministry of Immigration, Governance and Labour will play a key role in making sure the new technology keeps citizens safe.