U.S. to Enforce New Biometric Rule for All Non-Citizens Starting December 2025

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that it will begin enforcing a new biometric rule starting December 26, 2025, requiring all non-U.S. citizens to have their photographs taken upon entry and exit from the country. This measure is part of an expanded national system managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

According to Insider Business Immigration, the change marks a major step toward the digitalization of border management and is expected to impact millions of travelers annually.

The final rule was published in the Federal Register on October 27 and forms part of the government’s broader efforts to strengthen border security, combat document fraud, and prevent visa overstays.

DHS Expands Biometric Screening for All Non-Citizens

Under the new regulation, facial recognition technology will serve as the primary identity verification method due to its speed and scalability, with fingerprint scans used as a secondary option when needed. U.S. citizens are exempt and may choose not to use facial images for verification.

The system will apply to all non-citizens, including green card holders, visa holders, and temporary residents, without any age exemptions — meaning that children under 14 and adults over 79 will also be subject to biometric photography.

The rule aims to establish a comprehensive entry-exit documentation system across airports, seaports, and land crossings, helping authorities detect fraud, confirm departures, and accurately identify visa overstay cases.

However, civil liberties groups and lawmakers have raised privacy and misidentification concerns, especially given the expansion of facial recognition technology and the removal of prior exemptions.

DHS Warns of Entry Risks for Noncompliance with New Biometric Rule

Noncompliance with the rule could affect an individual’s ability to enter the U.S. or be deemed a violation of legal status, since biometric data will be required to verify identity and immigration status. Nonetheless, these checks will not alter visa or residency eligibility, but rather expand data collection for verification and monitoring purposes.

Traveler Tips Before Implementation:

• Ensure you carry valid travel documents such as your passport, visa, and proof of residence (if applicable).

• Plan extra time for processing at airports and land crossings during the initial implementation phase.

• Follow DHS and CBP updates for the latest location-specific guidance.