U.S. to Enforce Nationwide Biometric Photo Requirement for All Foreign Travelers

Source: U.S Customs and Border Protection

The United States has made biometric photography a nationwide requirement for all foreign travelers entering or leaving the country. Beginning December 26, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will collect photographs—and in some cases, additional biometric data such as fingerprints—from all non-U.S. citizens, including permanent residents and children, at every border crossing by air, land, and sea.

The new rule, finalized by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), eliminates previous exemptions that had applied to certain age groups or types of travelers. It represents a major expansion of the government’s facial recognition and data collection systems, which were previously limited to pilot programs.

Under the updated policy, photos will be taken at passport control booths, airport gates, cruise terminals, and land border crossings to verify travelers’ identities through facial recognition technology. The data will be stored in DHS databases for up to 75 years and used to monitor entry and exit movements, prevent visa overstays, and combat identity fraud.

For travelers flying from the U.S. to Canada or other destinations, photos will typically be taken at the boarding gate before departure. CBP or airline staff may use cameras or handheld devices to capture images as part of exit verification procedures.

Officials say the system will enhance border security and streamline inspections, but privacy advocates warn that it could significantly expand government surveillance and raise concerns over data protection. While the rule takes effect this December, authorities estimate it may take three to five years before biometric coverage reaches all ports of entry, including smaller land crossings and marinas.