Maltese embassies to use briefcase to capture biometric data

Indra Sistemas SA has made a system for capturing biometric information for Maltese embassies and consulates that's mounted in a briefcase.

According to the company, the new system captures fingerprints, signatures and facial features into the EU information system and the briefcase system weighs 9 kilograms. Indra will deliver nearly 500 of the mobile stations to the Maltese foreign ministry.

The briefcase system includes a laptop, fingerprint scanner, digital camera and tablet for recording digital signatures. Indra says the system also complies with IATA requirements for carry-on luggage, which means embassy authorities can issue visa permits away from physical embassy locations.

The system is based on Indra's SIBED software, which has reportedly been used to generate over 30 million identity documents and cards already.

Indra has also recently been involved in the roll-out of the electronic national identity document and passport in Spain, as well as the implementation of the maritime passport in Panama.