The US has introduced stricter entry rules for non-citizens, including Green Card holders, starting December 26, 2025. Travelers should expect more photographs, fingerprints, and detailed inspections every time they enter or leave the country. For some, especially those from certain nations, this could feel more like an interview than a routine border crossing.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has released a Notice of Final Rule called “Collection of Biometric Data from Aliens Upon Entry to and Departure from the United States.” Under this rule, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will collect facial biometrics from all non-citizens at airports, land ports, seaports, and other entry or exit points.
Previously, some groups, like diplomats, children, the elderly, and most Canadian visitors, were exempt. Those exemptions have now been removed. Travelers can also expect the rules to cover all modes of transport, including private planes, boats, vehicles, and even walking across the border.
CBP may also collect fingerprints and iris scans, which will be checked against the Traveler Verification Service tied to travel documents. Immigration authorities are allowed to review older Green Card and visa applications, even those approved as far back as 2021. Travelers should expect more thorough questioning, document checks, and possible delays.
US citizens are not required to participate in this program, though they can opt in voluntarily.
Certain Green Card holders from 19 nations will face extra screening. These countries include Afghanistan, Burma (Myanmar), Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen, Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.
Acting Executive Assistant Commissioner Diane J. Sabatino said the program is a key step in improving US border security and modernizing the entry and exit process using facial biometrics and advanced technology.
