The Department of Homeland Security announced last December that US Customs and Border Protection will be collecting biometric data from all non-citizens when they enter or leave the country.
According to the official announcement, “The final rule, effective Dec. 26, 2025, amends existing DHS regulations to authorize U.S. Customs and Border Protection, an operational component within DHS, to collect facial biometrics from all noncitizens upon entry and exit at airports, land ports, seaports, and other authorized points of departure. This removes prior exemptions including diplomats and most Canadian visitors.”
The rule primarily covers facial biometrics, although fingerprints may be required as well. It is unclear how the biometric information will be used, although one could reasonably surmise it will be used for both ensuring visa compliance and non-immigration related law enforcement.
US citizens will not be included in this biometric collection, but they have the option to voluntarily participate.
“U.S. citizens are not covered by this rule but may voluntarily participate. Those who wish to opt out can notify a CBP officer or airline representative and will undergo manual passport inspection,” a the CBP said in a public statement.
This rule is the culmination of a 2017 Exceutive Order by President Trump to expedite completion of the biometric entry-exit system. President Trump continues to ensure the United States has secure borders and there are reasonable measures to control visitors to our country in place. Visa overstay represents about 40% of illegal immigration to the United States. These new measures by CPB will make it easier for the government to track those who overstay their visas and take proper action.
It is a welcome change that immigrants and visitors will have their biometrics tracked. However, it is not advisible that any US citizen should give their biometric information to the government. The program is a logical step toward border security, however we should be careful to ensure that it is not used against US citizens by future administrations.
