The United States is all set to enforce a new biometric entry-exit rule for foreign nationals from December 26, 2025. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed that it may be necessary for all non-US citizens to be photographed when they enter or exit the country as part of a larger, national program operated by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The Federal Register published the final rule on October 27.
Although biometrics can still be used in certain situations. But CBP says facial recognition, or facial comparison, will be the main technique due to its speed and scalability. Americans are exempt from the requirement and have the option to refuse to have their faces used for identity verification.
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About the Biometric entry-exit move
This move is aimed at creating a comprehensive biometric entry-exit system across airports, seaports and land crossings. DHS says the change will help spot impostors, cut document fraud, confirm departures, and identify visa overstays more accurately. Wider use of facial recognition has drawn criticism from civil liberties organisations and some lawmakers due to privacy and misidentification concerns.
What do you need to know as an Indian traveller?
Every immigration inspection for Indian citizens travelling to or from the US will now include biometric checks.
CBP will capture a live photograph during both entry and exit.
Facial scans at airport kiosks or inspection points will automatically link to travellers’ passport and visa records.
Some initial delays may occur as the new system is implemented at various locations.
These checks will not affect visa eligibility or authorised stay- they only expand data collection to verify identity and monitor departures.
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Who is applicable?
All non-citizens in the US are covered by the policy, including those without status, lawful permanent residents (green card holders), and visa holders.
Consequently, CBP is now allowed to take pictures of people of all ages at entry and departure; the previous age restrictions (under 14 and over 79) are no longer applicable.
In cases where CBP uses biometrics to verify identity or immigration information, noncompliance may impact admissibility or be regarded as a status violation.
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Apart from this, if you are travelling, please carry valid travel documents: passport, visa, and (if applicable) proof of US residence. Keep extra time at hand at airports and land crossings during the early rollout.
