U.S Announces Mandatory Biometric Collection to All Foreign Nationals

U.S. to Implement Mandatory Biometric Data Collection for All Foreign Nationals Starting December 2025.

Beginning December 26, 2025, a new U.S. regulation will require the mandatory collection of biometric data from all foreign nationals entering or departing the country. The measure, announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) on October 27, 2025, will directly impact anyone planning to travel to or currently holding a U.S. visa, including Green Card holders and Canadian citizens.

The new rule, formally titled “Collection of Biometric Data From Aliens Upon Entry to and Departure From the United States,” establishes universal biometric requirements, eliminating all age-based exemptions and expanding enforcement to all ports of entry and exit — whether by air, land, or sea. As a result, biometric screening will become mandatory for all non-U.S. citizens, regardless of age.

Previously, travelers under 14 and over 79 years of age were exempt from the process. Under the new regulation, children and elderly travelers will also be included, as technological limitations that once made fingerprint collection challenging for these age groups have been overcome. According to the DHS, the goal is to link child and adult immigration records, enhance identity verification accuracy, and strengthen efforts to combat child trafficking.

The measure aims to reinforce national security and immigration control mechanisms, reduce the use of forged or stolen visas, and prevent the misuse of travel documents by individuals who may pose a security threat.

How the Biometric Collection Will Work

The process will primarily include facial photographs and fingerprints, recorded each time a traveler enters or leaves the United States. The electronic data from all ten fingerprints will be stored in a secure database and made available to DHS immigration officers for identity verification. Data privacy will be safeguarded by strict digital security protocols and limited use for immigration and security purposes.

Who Will Be Affected

The requirement applies to virtually all foreign nationals, including:

• Tourists (B1/B2 visas)

• Professionals and temporary workers (H-1B, L-1, and similar visas)

• Students and exchange visitors (F-1 and related categories)

• Lawful permanent residents (Green Card holders)

• Canadian citizens, regardless of the mode of transportation used

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There are limited exemptions for government officials, diplomatic personnel, and representatives of international organizations — including holders of A-1, A-2, G-1 to G-4, and NATO-1 to NATO-6 visas, as well as TECRO E-1 visa holders in official capacity.

Consequences of Non-Compliance

The DHS warns that refusing to provide biometric data may result in inadmissibility to the United States, visa cancellation, or even removal proceedings. Additionally, foreign nationals who fail to comply with departure requirements or exceed their authorized period of stay may lose any applicable exemptions.

In summary, starting in December 2025, the United States will take a major step toward universal mandatory biometric screening, marking a significant shift in immigration and border control procedures.