Representatives of ICE and the government of Nicaragua recently signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU), which establishes the Nicaraguan government as a participating partner in ICE/ERO’s electronic Travel Document (eTD) system.
Determining citizenship and obtaining travel documents for detained individuals is often a cumbersome process, which slows the deportation of foreign nationals held in ICE/ERO custody. The eTD system streamlines the process with participating countries by electronically providing biographic and biometric information used to determine citizenship and/or nationality for individuals. The system also allows consular officials to review and edit electronic travel documents, which can be signed using a signature pad. Documents can be printed locally by ICE/ERO personnel at detention facilities or field offices.
Foreign governments participating in the eTD system are asked to confirm the citizenship of aliens suspected to be their nationals through interviews and the review of records and documents. They are also expected to issue travel documents in a timely manner and accept the physical return of their nationals.