All UK visa applications across the world now include fingerprint biometrics, three months ahead of schedule, according to immigration minister Liam Byrne.

Prints from applicants from 133 countries are checked against government databases to prevent fraud and nearly 500 cases of identity swapping have already been found.

"The public wants stronger borders. They want us to shut down the causes of illegal immigration and hold newcomers to account, deporting rule breakers where necessary," said Byrne.

The scheme is part of the remit of the newly-created Border and Immigration Agency, which is also responsible for the national biometric ID card plan.

The first cards for UK citizens are due to be issued at the end of the 2009. But under new targets announced today, a programme of compulsory ID cards for foreign nationals wanting to stay in the country will start within three months.