Belize Cabinet Approves Nationwide Roll‑Out of Biometrics-Based Digital ID

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The Central American country of Belize looks likely to become more digitally integrated than ever after the Cabinet of Belize authorized the deployment of a biometric digital ID system, marking a milestone in the country’s digital transformation strategy. This follows a six‑month pilot program involving 500 participants, overseen by the Ministry of E‑Governance’s e‑Government and Digitalization Unit.

The upcoming digital ID will become the unique identification mechanism for all citizens and legal residents, streamlining the current patchwork ID system of passports, social security cards, driver’s licenses, and voter ID cards. Designed to boost efficiency, transparency, and responsiveness across both public and private sectors, the ID rollout aligns with Belize’s National Digital Agenda 2022–2025.

Jose Urbina, CEO of the Ministry of E‑Governance, confirmed that post‑approval phases will include stakeholder consultations, laying the legislative groundwork required for implementation. He affirmed that the government remains confident in launching “more aggressive” enrollment efforts within the approved timeframe.

A formal government statement added that a comprehensive onboarding strategy will be developed to ensure timely and effective citizen registration.