The Mexican government has formally mandated the use of a new biometric-based digital identification system, transforming the previously voluntary Unique Population Registry Code (CURP) into a compulsory digital ID.
CURP, originally launched in 1996, served as a non-biometric personal identifier for both Mexican citizens and legal residents. It has been widely used for everything from filing taxes and registering companies to enrolling in school and applying for passports.
Under the new law, CURP IDs will now include embedded biometric data like fingerprints, iris scans and photographs, encoded within a scannable QR code. CURP codes have traditionally been used to facilitate critical processes such as tax filing, company registration, school enrollment and passport applications.
However, the enhanced version, set to fully roll out by February 2026, will streamline identification, reduce fraud and provide a centralized way to access public services.
