USA – United States (US) has officially implemented a comprehensive biometric entry and exit system, marking a significant shift in border security protocols for all non-US citizens. Effective from December 26, 2025, the new mandate requires US Customs and Border Protection officials to capture photographs of travellers at every airport, seaport, and land crossing. This regulation applies universally to non-citizens, including Lawful Permanent Residents known as Green Card holders and Canadian visitors who were previously exempt from such stringent requirements.
The Department of Homeland Security stated that the primary objective of the initiative is to enhance national security and more accurately monitor visa overstays. Under the new rules, exemptions have been removed for diplomats, who must now provide biometrics upon both entry and departure. Furthermore, the mandate extends to all age groups, specifically including children under 14 and adults over the age of 79. While US citizens are exempt from mandatory collection, they may choose to participate voluntarily, though the CBP has confirmed that photos of US citizens are deleted within twelve hours of verification. Conversely, data for non-citizens will be retained in the Biometric Identity Management System for up to 75 years.
