National Certificate Automation Redesign (NCAR) Printer Replacement
Overview
Buyer
Place of Performance
NAICS
PSC
Set Aside
Original Source
Timeline
Qualification Details
Fit reasons
- NAICS alignment with historical contract wins in similar service areas.
- Scope strongly matches core technical capabilities and delivery model.
Risks
- Past performance thresholds may require one additional teaming partner.
- Potential clarification needed on staffing minimums before bid/no-bid.
Next steps
Validate eligibility requirements, assign capture owner, and schedule partner outreach to confirm teaming strategy before submission planning.
Quick Summary
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), specifically US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), has issued a Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI) for the National Certificate Automation Redesign (NCAR) Printer Replacement program. This market research aims to identify sources capable of providing forensically consistent printers for the production of secure Naturalization Certificates. Responses are due by April 14, 2026, at 2:00 PM ET.
Scope of Work
USCIS requires printers with specific functional specifications, including:
- Forensic Security: Pigment-based ink printing that permanently bonds with security paper, resistant to fading, and passes forensic testing. Must use separate black ink and not damage UV security features.
- Paper Compatibility: Support for USCIS custom-produced, secure paper (approx. 28 Lb bond, green tinged, with raised printing and gold embossed seal). Vendors must work with USCIS on color management adjustments.
- Performance: Minimum 500-sheet paper tray capacity, 28 ppm color print speed, and a duty cycle of 3,000-10,000 pages per month.
- Connectivity: Minimum USB 2.0 Interface with a 3m USB cable.
- Supplies & Warranty: Initial ink supply (black, cyan, magenta, yellow) and one year of maintenance supplies included. Automatic replacement supplies for years 2-5. All ink must have a 12-month shelf life. A 5-year next-day on-site or advanced exchange warranty is required.
Potential Procurement Details
The procurement vehicle may include:
- Base purchase of 5-10 units for integration and testing.
- Initial deployment of 300 printers to 100+ USCIS locations.
- Ongoing purchase options for up to 25 additional printers per year over a 4-year period.
- Provisions for purchasing required ink through the contract.
Contract & Timeline
- Type: Sources Sought / Request for Information (RFI)
- Set-Aside: None specified (market research stage)
- Response Due: April 14, 2026, 2:00 PM ET
- Published: March 27, 2026
Submission & Evaluation
Interested parties should provide information on their company's capabilities and experience delivering equipment that meets or can be adjusted to meet these requirements. This includes technical literature, market pricing, paper handling, ink details, and modification costs. USCIS is also interested in higher-capacity devices (70+ PPM, 1000+ page tray). Responses should be submitted via email to Amir.Hrnjic@uscis.dhs.gov and Sieanna.R.Seward@uscis.dhs.gov in PDF format. NAICS codes 334118 and 541519 are being considered.
Additional Notes
This is solely for market research; it is not a solicitation, and no contract will be awarded. Respondents are responsible for all expenses, and information gathered may be used for future technical and acquisition purposes. Proprietary information should be marked.