Starting December 26, the United States will implement a mandatory biometric entry-exit system for all non-citizens, including Green Card holders. This initiative, enforced by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), requires the capture of photographs at borders, airports, land crossings, and seaports.
Details of the Biometric Program
- Implementation Date: December 26
- Who is Affected: Non-US citizens, including Green Card holders, individuals under 14, and seniors over 79.
- Purpose: To enhance security and monitor visa overstays.
The new system expands upon previous pilot programs, making biometric data collection a compulsory procedure for entry and exit. Critics express concerns about potential surveillance issues, although the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) asserts that the primary goal is security.
What Biometrics Will Be Collected?
Along with photographs, CBP may collect fingerprints and iris scans. This information will be compared with existing travel documents using the Traveler Verification Service.
Exemptions and Special Cases
- Diplomats: Diplomats are now included in the biometric requirement, reversing previous exemptions. They must provide biometrics upon entry and exit.
- Canadian Visitors: Canadians will also need to comply, despite past exemptions.
- Exemptions for US Citizens: US citizens are not required to provide biometrics but can voluntarily participate in the process. Those who opt-out will have their passports manually inspected instead.
Retention of Biometric Data
Photos of US citizens taken during the verification process will be deleted within 12 hours. In contrast, biometric data from non-citizens will be stored in the DHS Biometric Identity Management System for up to 75 years.
This new biometric entry-exit system represents a significant shift in US immigration practices, affecting a wide range of travelers and contributing to national security efforts.
