DHS to Expand Facial Recognition for All Non-Citizens at U.S. Borders - Immigration News 2025

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has finalized a new rule that will significantly expand its use of biometric data collection for all non-U.S. citizens. Starting December 26, 2025, facial recognition technology will be used to track the entry and exit of nearly all foreign nationals, including lawful permanent residents (green card holders), at all U.S. airports, seaports, and land crossings. This new policy change is part of the government's broader effort to create a comprehensive automated entry-exit system, a goal that has been in place for decades. The stated purpose of this expansion is to enhance national security, combat visa overstays, and prevent passport fraud. Previously, these requirements had exemptions for certain age groups, but the new rule will apply to children under 14 and adults over 79. The government may also require other biometrics like fingerprints or even DNA in the future. While the government cites security as the primary driver for this immigration news in 2025, civil rights organizations have raised concerns about privacy and the potential for errors, particularly for minority groups.