The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that beginning December 26, 2025, all foreign nationals entering or leaving the country—by any mode of travel—will be required to provide biometric data, including a photograph.
In a statement, DHS said the new rule expands biometric collection to additional forms of transportation, such as maritime departures, private aircraft, vehicle crossings, and pedestrian exits.
Under the rule, biometric records for foreign nationals will be stored for up to 75 years in the DHS Biometric Identity Management System, which will retain facial images as confirmation of entry and exit.
The measure is part of a broader effort to implement a full biometric entry-exit system, aimed at strengthening national security and speeding up identity verification for international visitors.
“This final rule marks a major milestone towards our efforts to successfully implement the Biometric Entry/Exit mandate and strengthen the security of the United States,” said Diane J. Sabatino, acting executive assistant commissioner for CBP’s Office of Field Operations.
U.S. citizens are not subject to mandatory biometric screening but may opt in to facial verification during entry and departure.
Biometrics will also be collected from foreign nationals entering or leaving the U.S. by vehicle.
Citizens May Decline Participation
Americans who choose not to participate can notify a CBP officer or airline representative and undergo a manual passport inspection, as already required for international travel.
CBP noted that it has implemented privacy safeguards for all travelers. DHS has published more than 10 Privacy Impact Assessments outlining policies for biometric collection, storage, analysis, use, retention, and deletion.
For U.S. citizens who participate, CBP will delete facial images within 12 hours of identity verification.
