Washington D.C., October 28, 2025:
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has introduced major updates to its border security process. The new rule affects all foreign nationals, including green card holders. It expands biometric verification for every non-citizen entering or leaving the United States.

The rule, listed in the Federal Register, requires all immigrants, visa holders, and lawful permanent residents to be photographed and provide biometric data at both entry and exit points.

What Are the New Changes?

Under the new policy, every non-U.S. citizen must go through biometric screening when entering or leaving the country. This includes photographs and, in some cases, fingerprints or other identifiers.

Previously, only specific travelers—mainly temporary visa holders—had to submit biometric data. Now, the exemption for people under 14 or over 79 years of age has been removed.

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will carry out the new procedures at airports, seaports, and land borders. The agency will use facial recognition and identity verification systems to match travelers’ photos with official databases.

Although the rule focuses on photographs for now, CBP may also collect fingerprints or other biometric details in the future.

These updated entry-exit procedures will begin on December 26, 2025.

Why Has the Rule Been Introduced?

DHS and CBP say the rule aims to strengthen national security and prevent identity fraud. Officials believe that a complete entry-exit system will help track visa overstays, prevent document misuse, and identify individuals trying to re-enter illegally.

CBP stated that the new system will make identity checks faster and more accurate. It will also close long-standing gaps in the border control process.

According to the agency, this approach will reduce terrorism risks, document fraud, and unauthorized stays in the U.S.

How It Affects Green Card Holders and Immigrants

For green card holders and other immigrants, these changes mean stricter screening during travel. Anyone returning from abroad will now be photographed and verified, just like other foreign visitors.

Immigration advisors suggest carrying valid travel and residency documents at all times. Not following these new steps could lead to re-entry delays or additional questions at the border.

Travelers should also plan for longer processing times at airports and land crossings once the policy is enforced.

Public Reaction and Privacy Concerns

The U.S. government says the rule improves national security. However, privacy advocates have raised serious concerns. They fear that widespread use of facial recognition could result in surveillance and misuse of personal data.

Experts have noted that some facial recognition systems still struggle with accuracy, particularly for people with darker skin tones. These errors could cause wrongful detentions or travel restrictions.

Civil rights groups have also demanded clarity about how long the data will be stored and who can access it. They warn that without transparency, the system could violate privacy rights.

Part of a Larger Immigration Crackdown

Since returning to office in January 2025, the Trump administration has strengthened immigration enforcement. The new exit-entry rule continues this trend.

Earlier this year, the administration ended birthright citizenship and expanded immigration raids nationwide. It also tightened social media checks for visa applicants, leading to more rejections and cancellations.

Officials defend these actions as necessary for security. However, critics say they fuel fear among immigrant communities and create uncertainty for lawful residents.

What Travelers Should Do

  • Plan ahead: Arrive early for your flight or border crossing to allow time for new screenings.

  • Check updates: Follow announcements from DHS and CBP about new requirements.

  • Carry documents: Keep valid travel papers and green cards with you at all times.

  • Get advice: Speak to an immigration expert if you are unsure how these rules affect you.

Conclusion:

The new exit-entry rules represent one of the largest expansions of biometric tracking in U.S. history. Starting December 2025, all non-citizens, including green card holders, will face mandatory biometric checks when entering and leaving the country.

Supporters say this move will close security loopholes and prevent overstays. Critics warn it could increase government surveillance and put personal privacy at risk.

For millions of immigrants and permanent residents, these changes mark a new era of tighter border monitoring and more cautious travel planning in the United States.

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