US to fingerprint, photograph visitors with visas

From January 1, 2004 people visiting US airports or seaports will have to get their travel documents scanned, fingerprints and photos taken. They even have to get their identification check against terrorists who are wanted.

Homeland Security undersecretary Asa Hutchinson released the news details of the department's new US Visitor and Immigration Status Indication Technology, or US VISIT, that will check the comings and goings of certain foreign travellers.

The checks will apply to people who arrive in this country carrying visas, which last year was about 60 per cent or 23 million of the foreign visitors, said Hutchinson, who oversees Border and Transportation Security.

Homeland Security Secretary Tom Ridge had announced US VISIT earlier this month. Hutchinson said when the visitor leaves, the person's departure will be verified with the US VISIT system.