Biometric CURP 2026: The Latest You Need to Know

2026 marks a new chapter in the history of CURP, Mexico’s national identity document, with the implementation of the Biometric CURP. This advancement in citizen identification security and accuracy introduces a series of technological innovations designed to improve registration processes and more efficiently verify the identity of Mexican citizens. In this guide, we explain what you need to know about this new document.

What is the Biometric CURP?

The Biometric CURP is not merely an update to the traditional format; it represents a comprehensive reinvention of the identification system. This new version will include not only basic CURP data, such as name, date of birth, and gender, but also biometric features like facial photographs, iris scans, and fingerprints, aiming to align with international identification security standards.

This new document, which will be implemented starting in 2026, is designed to be a universal and mandatory identifier for a range of essential procedures, including school enrollment, access to scholarships, opening bank accounts, and affiliation with health services, among others.

At What Age Can Children Obtain the Biometric CURP?

One of the most common questions among parents and guardians concerns the minimum age for processing the Biometric CURP for minors. According to the Ministry of Interior (Segob), children can be registered to obtain their Biometric CURP starting at 5 years of age. However, at that age, only a facial photograph and iris scan will be taken, as the fingerprints of children under 5 are not yet fully developed.

From the age of 5 onwards, fingerprint capture will begin to be included, allowing for more precise and secure identification. It is important to emphasize that the minor’s physical presence is indispensable for registration, and this process can only be carried out by the responsible adult (parent, mother, or legal guardian), who must also be present at the registration module.

What Data Does the Biometric CURP Capture?

The biometric data collected during the registration process includes:

• Facial Photograph: A high-resolution image to ensure correct individual identification.
• Iris Scan: Capturing the iris of both eyes provides an additional level of security.
• Fingerprints: All 10 fingerprints are captured (for individuals aged 5 and above), enabling unique and infallible identity verification.

Additionally, a digital signature and a QR code are generated, linking all this data to the CURP, ensuring the document is secure and aligns with the highest authenticity standards.

Requirements to Obtain the Biometric CURP in 2026

Although the process is free of charge, there are certain documents you must have ready at the time of registration. These are the general requirements:

• Certified CURP of the minor: The child or adolescent must have an updated CURP.
• Official photo identification of the responsible adult: The father, mother, or guardian must present a valid official identification, such as the INE, passport, professional license, or driver’s license, along with their biometric CURP.
• Minor’s Birth Certificate: If necessary, this document must be presented to validate the minor’s identity.
• Active Email Address: Essential for receiving appointment confirmation.
• If the responsible adult is a legal guardian, they must also present the legal document proving this relationship.

How to Process the Biometric CURP?

Although this process will be implemented gradually, authorities recommend scheduling an appointment through the official RENAPO (National Population Registry) website. By selecting the biometric data registration service, you will be assigned a specific date and time to complete the procedure at the corresponding module.

It is important to remember that the appointment is mandatory and must be confirmed before visiting the module. Furthermore, while the process is currently voluntary, it is expected to eventually become a mandatory requirement for various official procedures.

Implications for Minors

One of the main concerns for parents and guardians is how this new system will affect minors. Firstly, it must be emphasized that biometric data registration is permitted only if the legal guardian accompanies the minor during the process. It is important to note that registration cannot be completed through third parties or via a power of attorney, which ensures the process is secure and transparent.

Additionally, the Biometric CURP system will facilitate the location of minors in cases of disappearance or being lost, thanks to the collection of high-precision biometric data.

The post first appeared on Líder Empresarial.