The American embassy to China is starting to scan and collect fingerprints of non-immigration visa applicants. The entire records will be stored in a database for officials. 

The entire records will be stored in a database for officials of US Department of Homeland Security to identify visa holders who enter the country.

The decision was made in line with US policies to tighten visa processing out of concerns for security.

However, government officials and businesspeople will not be included.

(CRI March 22, 2004)