US To Begin New Biometric Entry-Exit Rule. What It Means For Indian Travellers

The United States will enforce a new biometric entry-exit rule for foreign nationals from December 26, 2025. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has confirmed that all non-U.S. citizens entering or leaving the country may be required to be photographed as part of an expanded, nationwide system run by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). The final rule was published in the Federal Register on October 27, 2025.

CBP says facial comparison (facial recognition) will be the primary method because it is faster and more scalable; fingerprints can still be used where needed. US citizens remain outside the mandate and can opt out of facial photos used for identity verification.

Why The US Is Doing This

The rule is intended to create 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.

Civil liberties groups and some lawmakers have flagged privacy and misidentification risks with wider facial recognition use. Independent reporting also notes the removal of several longstanding exemptions as the programme expands.

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Who Is Covered

The policy applies to all non-citizens - including lawful permanent residents (green card holders), visa holders and those without status. Importantly, the previous age exemptions (under 14 and over 79) no longer apply for photographs; CBP may photograph all age groups at entry and exit.

Failure to comply can affect admissibility or be treated as a status violation where CBP requires biometrics to determine identity or immigration information.

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What It Means For Indian Travellers

For Indian citizens travelling to or from the US, biometric checks will be part of every immigration inspection. Expect:

• A live photograph captured by CBP at entry and exit.
• Automated facial scans at airport kiosks/inspection points linked to your passport/visa record.
• Possible initial delays as locations ramp up.

These checks do not change visa eligibility or authorised stay; they expand what is collected to verify identity and track departures.

Travel Tips Ahead Of December 26 Rollout

• Carry valid travel documents: passport, visa, and (if applicable) proof of US residence.
• Plan extra time at airports and land crossings during the early rollout.
• Follow DHS/CBP advisories for site-by-site implementation updates.