Iris recognition immigration system
From SR
Contents |
Purpose
As part of the e-Borders Programme, Iris recognition immigration system (IRIS) is a means of border control that allows registered passengers to enter the United Kingdom quickly through automated barriers at certain airports. It makes use of the fact that the pattern of the iris in each person's eye (the coloured part of the eye) is unique. This makes it possible for a person to be identified simply by looking into a special camera.
Background
Iris recognition is a form of biometrics that is a fast, secure and fraud-resistant way to check a person's identity. Biometrics is the science of using digital technology to recognise a person from a physical characteristic (for example a fingerprint or iris pattern) or another unique personal characteristic (for example a voice pattern or handwriting).
Methodology
The IRIS system uses a photograph of the iris pattern, converts it into a digital code and then compares it with others stored in a secure database. When it matches the captured iris pattern with the corresponding one on the database and the registration is still valid, that person can enter the United Kingdom by passing through the IRIS barrier located in the immigration arrival hall.
It usually takes between five and 10 minutes to register for IRIS. A registered traveller entering the United Kingdom can cross an IRIS barrier in about 20 seconds.
Current Situation
IRIS is operating at the following United Kingdom airports:
- all five Heathrow terminals
- Manchester terminals 1 and 2
- Birmingham terminal 1
- Gatwick North and South terminals
It is anticipated that, within five years, more than a million people will be registered to use the system.
