US Implements Sweeping New Entry and Exit Rules for All Non-Citizens

The United States is set to enforce new border rules for all foreign nationals. The policy mandates photographing every non-citizen upon both entry and exit from the country. This move aims to enhance national security and track immigration compliance.According to a filing in the Federal Register, US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will expand biometric data collection. The new system relies on advanced facial recognition technology at airports, seaports, and land crossings.

How the New Biometric System Will Work

The updated rules take effect on December 26, 2025. They grant CBP the authority to capture photos of non-citizens whenever they depart the United States. This creates a comprehensive biometric entry-exit system.CBP currently collects fingerprints and photos from many travelers. The key change is the mandatory collection of this data upon every exit. The agency states this will help identify individuals using fraudulent travel documents.This system directly addresses national security concerns. It also targets the issue of visa overstays. Officials can now better track who remains in the country beyond their authorized period.

Broader Impact and Public Response

The policy will affect all non-US citizens. This includes lawful permanent residents, or green card holders, and other immigrants. Previously exempt groups, like children under 14 and people over 79, will also be subject to the new facial recognition checks.CBP explains that technological advancements make this system feasible. The agency can now compare real-time images taken at ports with pre-existing photo galleries from passports. This process happens quickly and without dedicated exit lanes.A public comment period on the new rules is expected to begin soon. Widespread implementation across all ports of entry is projected within three to five years.

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The United States is fundamentally reshaping its border management with these new US entry exit rules for non-citizens, aiming to close security gaps with technology.

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Who exactly will be affected by these new rules?

All non-citizens entering or leaving the United States will be subject to the new rules. This includes lawful permanent residents (green card holders) and other visa holders. The previous exemptions for young children and senior citizens have been removed.

When do these new US entry exit rules start?

The official effective date for the new regulations is December 26, 2025. However, full implementation across all air, sea, and land ports of entry is expected to take three to five years to complete.

What is the main goal of this program?

The primary goal is to strengthen national security and immigration enforcement. The system is designed to identify terrorists, prevent document fraud, and accurately track individuals who overstay their visas.

How will the facial recognition technology be used?

CBP will use facial recognition to capture images of travelers at entry and exit points. These live photos will be instantly compared against a gallery of existing images from government documents like passports and visas.

Will US citizens be required to participate?

US citizens are not mandated to provide biometric data upon exit under this specific rule. The program focuses on non-citizens to create a complete entry-exit record for foreign nationals.