Immigration and Nationality Law
Tom Ridge, Secretary of the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), announced the launch of the new U.S. VISIT system in his discussion of DHS' first 100 days. In a speech in Washington, Secretary Ridge outlined the DHS' plan to create a new entry-exit system backed by new technology. The U.S. Visitor and Immigrant Status Indication Technology system (U.S. VISIT) is designed to make entering the U.S. easier for tourists, students and business travelers, and will implement biometrically authenticated documents to prevent unlawful entry into the U.S.
The system will utilize a minimum of two biometric identifiers, such as photographs, fingerprints or iris scans, to build an electronic check in/check out system for people coming to the U.S. to work, study or visit. The U.S. VISIT system will replace the currently existing NSEERS program, integrate the SEVIS program, and encompass the Congressional requirements of the automated entry exit system. The system will be in its first phase of operation at international air and sea ports of entry by the end of 2003.
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